The racing world eagerly awaits the return of Thorpedo Anna, the reigning horse of the year, as she prepares for her first race of 2024. On Saturday, this accomplished filly will compete in the Grade 2 Azeri Stakes at Oaklawn Park, covering a distance of 1 1/16 miles. Trained by Kenny McPeek and ridden by Brian Hernandez Jr., Thorpedo Anna's last appearance was a dominant performance in the Breeders' Cup Distaff at Del Mar. After a well-deserved break at McPeek’s Kentucky farm, she resumed training at Fair Grounds, and all indications point to her readiness for a top-tier performance. The filly's impressive career includes victories in several Grade 1 races, with her speed figures reflecting her exceptional talent.
Thorpedo Anna has consistently demonstrated her prowess on the track, culminating in her triumph at the Breeders' Cup Distaff in November 2023. Her journey began with notable performances throughout the previous year, including a runner-up finish in the Travers Stakes against male competition. This race marked her only encounter with males and showcased her versatility. Following the Travers, she rebounded with a win in the Cotillion Stakes, albeit with slightly lower speed figures. She concluded her three-year-old season with an outstanding performance in the Breeders' Cup Distaff, where she faced older fillies and mares. Now, as a four-year-old, the stage is set for Thorpedo Anna to prove her mettle once again in the Azeri Stakes.
Comparisons inevitably arise when discussing Thorpedo Anna's potential for the upcoming season. One notable predecessor is Rachel Alexandra, who made history in 2009 as the last three-year-old filly to be named horse of the year. Rachel Alexandra's remarkable campaign included victories over male horses in prestigious events such as the Preakness Stakes, Haskell Invitational, and Woodward Stakes. Her return to racing as a four-year-old was carefully managed by trainer Steve Asmussen, but it took time for her to regain her winning form. Despite initial setbacks, Rachel Alexandra eventually secured significant wins in races like the Fleur de Lis Stakes and Lady's Secret Stakes before concluding her career with a memorable run in the Personal Ensign Stakes.
Rachel Alexandra's speed figures from her championship year were nothing short of extraordinary, never dipping below 100 on any rating system. Her peak performance came in the Haskell Invitational, where she achieved lifetime bests across multiple metrics. Thorpedo Anna's own speed figures mirror this excellence, particularly in the Travers Stakes, which stands out as her highest-rated performance. While her subsequent races showed some fluctuation, her final outing in the Breeders' Cup Distaff reaffirmed her elite status. The similarities between these two champions highlight the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for Thorpedo Anna.
The anticipation surrounding Thorpedo Anna's return to competition is palpable. As she lines up at the starting gate for the Azeri Stakes, all eyes will be on her to see if she can maintain the high standards set during her championship year. The racing community will watch with bated breath to witness whether she can replicate or even surpass her past achievements. The forthcoming months will undoubtedly provide answers to the many questions about her continued dominance on the track.