On a rainy Saturday afternoon at Oaklawn Park, the extraordinary filly Thorpedo Anna lit up the track with a commanding 3½-length victory in the Grade 2, $400,000 Azeri Stakes. This win marks her ninth triumph in just 11 career starts and her seventh graded-stakes victory. As the unanimous champion 3-year-old filly of 2024 and a leading contender for horse of the year, Thorpedo Anna continues to captivate racing fans with her exceptional performances. Her next challenge will be the prestigious Apple Blossom Handicap on April 12, where she aims to kick off another season of Grade 1 victories.
The daughter of Fast Anna has already etched her name in the annals of horse racing history. Her championship campaign began last March with an effortless win in the Fantasy Stakes (G2) at Oaklawn. The momentum carried through with Grade 1 wins in the Kentucky Oaks, Acorn, Coaching Club American Oaks, Cotillion, and Breeders’ Cup Distaff. These achievements solidified her status as one of the sport's elite horses. Trainer Kenny McPeek meticulously planned her return after a challenging previous season, ensuring she was ready for this new chapter.
Thorpedo Anna faced four rivals in the Azeri Stakes, dispatched as the overwhelming 1-10 favorite. Despite the wet conditions, she demonstrated her versatility and resilience. Under jockey Brian Hernandez Jr., she led from start to finish, briefly challenged by Free Like a Girl around the far turn but easily pulling away to claim victory. Although her performance did not break any records, it was quintessential Thorpedo Anna—dominant and consistent. Her love for running remains evident, even if she wasn't at peak fitness on Saturday.
Thorpedo Anna’s success story is also a testament to her ownership group, including Judy Hicks, Brookdale Racing, Mark Edwards, and Magdalena Racing. Purchased for a modest $40,000 at the Fasig-Tipton fall yearling sale in 2022, she has surpassed $4 million in earnings, proving to be an incredible investment. McPeek and Hernandez have played pivotal roles in shaping her career, showcasing their expertise and calm demeanor that positively influences the filly.
This year promises thrilling competition, especially with strong contenders like Sierra Leone, Fierceness, White Abarrio, Locked, and Mindframe in the male division. On the female side, Thorpedo Anna stands out as a formidable force. Her only loss at age three came in a close race against top-tier males at Saratoga, hinting at her potential to challenge them again. With plans to continue racing into her five-year-old season, Thorpedo Anna aims to culminate her career with another stellar performance at the Breeders’ Cup, whether in the Classic or Distaff.
Thorpedo Anna's successful transition from her juvenile season to life as an older horse sets the stage for another memorable year. Racing enthusiasts can look forward to witnessing the continued brilliance of this champion filly, who has already made a significant impact on the sport. Her return signifies the dawn of an exciting new chapter in horse racing, and all eyes will be on her as she strives for further glory.