HorseRacing
Thoroughbreds Prepare for Prestigious Royal Delta Stakes
2025-02-14

A trio of horses trained by Saffie Joseph Jr. are set to compete in the Grade 3 Royal Delta stakes at Gulfstream Park this Saturday, aiming to showcase their prowess and secure a place among the elite. This prestigious event, honoring the remarkable legacy of a three-time champion, will feature a diverse field of fillies and mares vying for glory over a distance of 1 1/16 miles.

The race is part of an extensive 12-race program scheduled to begin at 12:20 p.m. EST. Among the notable contenders is Intrepid Daydream, who has been under Joseph's guidance since her private acquisition following her impressive performance in the Politely stakes at Laurel Park. Despite some recent setbacks, including a fourth-place finish in the Inside Information stakes, Joseph remains optimistic about her potential. "She’s showing promising signs in training, and we hope this race can bring out her best," he remarked.

Another entrant, Dazzling Move, also purchased privately by Miller Racing, brings a fresh perspective to the stable. Though new to the team, she has already demonstrated versatility and resilience. Trainer Joseph noted, "We’re eager to see how she performs over longer distances, and early indications suggest she could be a strong contender."

In contrast, Libban, a seasoned competitor with experience in two-turn races, rounds out Joseph's trio. Her most memorable victory came last summer in the Wasted Tears stakes on turf at Lone Star Park. Although her recent performance was less stellar, Joseph believes she can bounce back on the dirt surface. "She has proven herself on the dirt before, and we’re hopeful she can regain her form," he said.

Beyond Joseph's charges, other notable entries include Grand Job, trained by Hall of Famer Bill Mott, and Miss New York, who secured a win in the Boiling Springs stakes. Todd Pletcher’s Autumn Evening, coming off a head victory in an allowance race, adds further depth to the competition. Pletcher expressed confidence in her ability to handle the extended distance, stating, "Her workouts have been strong, and we believe she’s ready for this challenge."

The Royal Delta stakes not only offers a platform for these athletes to shine but also underscores the spirit of perseverance and ambition in the world of horse racing. Each horse, regardless of past performances, enters with the hope of achieving greatness, embodying the essence of competitive sports where determination and resilience often pave the way to success.

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