The prestigious Grade 3 UAE Oaks at Meydan on Friday holds the promise of a significant milestone for its winner. The top finisher will be awarded 50 points on the path to the Kentucky Oaks (G1), potentially securing a coveted starting position at Churchill Downs on May 2. This presents an extraordinary opportunity for Norway-trained Queen Azteca, who has demonstrated impressive form over the course.
A victory in the upcoming race would mark a remarkable achievement for Queen Azteca, especially considering her recent success in the Cocoa Beach Stakes. Trainer Niels Petersen expressed optimism about her chances, noting that the filly has shown continuous improvement and is expected to thrive over the extended distance of 1 3/16 miles. "We've seen steady progress with Queen Azteca, and she appears to be getting stronger with each outing," Petersen remarked. "The competition remains familiar, but we're hopeful this time around."
Beyond Queen Azteca, the field includes several other contenders vying for a share of the valuable points. Nicolas Caullery's Mistysea, who made her dirt debut in the Cocoa Beach Stakes, is also set to compete. Assistant trainer Marine Henry highlighted Mistysea's recovery and adaptation to the surface, suggesting a more competitive performance this time. The stakes are high, as the top five finishers will earn points crucial for their Kentucky Oaks aspirations.
This event not only highlights the global reach of horse racing but also underscores the importance of perseverance and preparation. For trainers and owners, it represents a pivotal moment that could shape the future careers of these young fillies. Winning here would symbolize the culmination of hard work and dedication, inspiring hope and ambition for all involved in the sport.