In an exciting turn of events for horse racing enthusiasts, Quietside, one of the nation's most promising young fillies, is set to make her three-year-old debut in the prestigious Martha Washington Stakes. Scheduled for January 25 at Oaklawn Park, this $300,000 race marks the first of three qualifying events leading up to the Grade 1 Kentucky Oaks. Trainer John Ortiz expressed confidence in Quietside's readiness and development as she prepares for this significant milestone.
Details of Quietside's Upcoming Race
The Martha Washington Stakes, held over a distance of 1 1/16 miles, has seen its purse increase from $250,000 to a record-breaking $300,000 for the 2025 season. This race serves as a crucial qualifier for the Kentucky Oaks, offering valuable points to the top five finishers. Owned by Shortleaf Stable, based in Arkansas, Quietside has been diligently training at Oaklawn following her impressive performances during her two-year-old campaign.
Quietside's journey began with a commanding victory in her debut at Saratoga on August 4, where she triumphed by an impressive 6 1/4 lengths. She then faced tougher competition, finishing second in the Spinaway Stakes and third in the Alcibiades Stakes. Her most recent outing was a runner-up finish in the Golden Rod Stakes at Churchill Downs on November 30, where she narrowly lost by 2 1/2 lengths to Good Cheer. Despite the loss, Quietside demonstrated remarkable resilience, beating the third-place horse by six lengths and earning a career-high speed figure.
Trainer John Ortiz noted that Quietside has returned from her last race in excellent condition, showing signs of maturing into her three-year-old body. Racing manager John Gasper praised her consistent performance, highlighting her ability to give her all in every race. With eight qualifying points already under her belt, Quietside is well-positioned for the upcoming challenges.
The Oaklawn Park series continues with the Honeybee Stakes on February 22 and the Fantasy Stakes on March 29, both key stepping stones toward the Kentucky Oaks. Fans will be eagerly watching as Quietside aims to build on her success and secure a spot in the prestigious Kentucky Oaks.
From a journalist's perspective, Quietside's story is not just about a horse's potential but also about perseverance and growth. Her journey showcases the dedication of trainers and owners who work tirelessly behind the scenes. As we look forward to her performance in the Martha Washington Stakes, it's clear that Quietside has the makings of a future champion. Her consistent improvement and competitive spirit make her a compelling contender to watch in the coming months.