On Sunday, a promising filly named Yes Ma’am is set to make her debut in the seventh race at Oaklawn, a six-furlong maiden allowance event. The young horse, a half-sister to Kentucky Derby 2024 winner Mystik Dan, will be competing just days after her sibling's comeback attempt in the Malibu Stakes. Trained by John Ortiz and owned by a syndicate including Lance Gasaway and Banks Hamby, Yes Ma’am has already shown promise in workouts leading up to this crucial moment. With Ramon Vazquez aboard, expectations are high for this talented newcomer.

The Next Chapter Begins: Can Yes Ma’am Follow in Mystik Dan’s Footsteps?

A Promising Pedigree

Yes Ma’am comes from an impressive lineage that includes her half-brother Mystik Dan, who claimed victory in the prestigious Kentucky Derby. Their dam, Ma’am, broke her maiden at Oaklawn in 2016, setting the stage for future generations. The choice to breed Ma’am with Unified was strategic, as trainer Kenny McPeek believed the stallion produced top-quality foals. This decision has now culminated in the arrival of Yes Ma’am, who carries the hopes of her owners and trainers.The breeding process was carefully managed by the ownership group, which included recommendations from McPeek. After Mystik Dan’s success, the team decided to continue with Unified, hoping to replicate the same level of excellence. The result is a filly with both physical resemblance and a competitive spirit that mirrors her brother’s. As Yes Ma’am prepares for her first official race, all eyes are on whether she can live up to the family legacy.

An Unstoppable Attitude

John Ortiz, Yes Ma’am’s trainer, describes her as having a "fiery, forward mentality." This attitude is often seen in horses with winning potential. Despite being relatively new to the racing scene, Yes Ma’am has already demonstrated exceptional talent during morning workouts. Her most recent drill, a half-mile gate exercise completed in 48 seconds, indicates she is ready for the challenge ahead.Ortiz believes that Yes Ma’am’s temperament will serve her well on race day. He notes that while it’s impossible to predict how she will perform once the gates open, her behavior suggests she possesses the qualities of a champion. The filly’s determination and focus are traits that could give her an edge over competitors. As she lines up in post 8, with Ramon Vazquez set to ride, the stage is set for an exciting debut.

A Family Affair

The story of Yes Ma’am is not just about one horse but a collective effort involving multiple stakeholders. Lance Gasaway, Brent and Sharilyn Gasaway, and Banks Hamby have been instrumental in shaping the filly’s journey. These individuals have a long history in the racing world, having raced Ma’am and later Mystik Dan. The involvement of Scott Hamby, who purchased an interest in Mystik Dan following his Southwest Stakes win, adds another layer to the family’s commitment to the sport.Naming the filly was a collaborative effort, with Sharilyn Gasaway ultimately deciding on “Yes Ma’am.” Initially considering “Universe,” she adjusted the name to reflect the connection to Ma’am. The significance of the name lies in its simplicity and charm, capturing the essence of the family’s dedication. As Yes Ma’am takes to the track, she carries the pride and aspirations of those who have nurtured her from birth.

Looking Ahead

While Yes Ma’am’s immediate focus is on her debut, there is optimism about her long-term prospects. Ortiz envisions her developing into a two-turn horse, capable of handling longer distances as she matures. The filly’s early performances suggest she has the potential to excel in various types of races. For now, the attention is on Sunday’s event, where Yes Ma’am will aim to prove herself against a field of talented young horses.As the clock ticks down to race time, anticipation builds. Fans and insiders alike are eager to see if Yes Ma’am can carve out her own path in the world of horse racing. With a strong pedigree, a winning attitude, and the support of her team, she is poised to make a significant impact. The future looks bright for this promising filly, and her debut at Oaklawn may just be the beginning of a remarkable career.