Musical Mischief, the remarkable 3 1/4-length upset winner of the Grade 2 Locust Grove Stakes just two months ago, is all set to take on a formidable field of fillies and mares in the 109th running of the Falls City Stakes (G3) on Thanksgiving Day at Churchill Downs. This 1 1/8-mile race, scheduled as race 9 with a post time of 3:16 p.m. EST and a first post at 11 a.m., promises to be a thrilling encounter.

Musical Mischief's Journey to Stardom in the Falls City

Musical Mischief's Kentucky Transformation

Trained by Michael McCarthy, Musical Mischief has truly thrived since making the move to Kentucky earlier this year. As a 4-year-old daughter of Into Mischief, she boasts an outstanding overall record of 12: 4-2-1, with three victories already under her belt at Churchill Downs. Her earnings stand at an impressive $515,024. After her Locust Grove victory at odds of 16-1, her connections initially considered the Breeders’ Cup Distaff but ultimately decided to focus on the Falls City. She will break from post 4 with the skilled jockey Edgar Morales in the saddle.This horse's journey from her previous owners at Stoneway Farm to being sold to Wathnan Racing showcases her growing prominence in the racing world. Her ability to adapt and perform at a high level in Kentucky is a testament to her talent and the efforts of her training team.

Challengers Stepping Up

Among Musical Mischief's main challengers is Godolphin's Tarifa. Trained by Brad Cox, this 3-year-old daughter of Bernardini is no stranger to success. She has won multiple graded stakes, including the Fair Grounds Oaks (G2) and Rachel Alexandra Stakes (G2). After a gutsy head victory over Gun Song in the Mother Goose Stakes (G2) one month ago at Aqueduct, she is now stepping up to face older competition for the first time. She will break from post 2 with the talented jockey Flavien Prat aboard.Tarifa's accomplishments speak volumes about her ability and determination. Her recent victory in the Mother Goose Stakes shows that she is a force to be reckoned with and will provide a tough test for Musical Mischief and the rest of the field.

The Field and Their Prospects

Other notable entries in the Falls City Stakes include Neon Icon, trained by George R. Arnold and ridden by Luis Saez. Peignoir, trained by Rodolphe Brisset and ridden by Florent Geroux, also brings her own skills to the race. Enclosure, trained by William I. Mott and ridden by Brian J. Hernandez, Jr., and Loved, trained by Brendan P. Walsh and ridden by Tyler Gaffalione, complete the field. Each horse has its own story and potential, making this a highly competitive race.The post positions and silks add to the visual appeal of the race, with each horse and its connections bringing their unique style and spirit. As the field gathers at Churchill Downs on Thanksgiving Day, the excitement builds for what promises to be a memorable showdown.