A distinguished lineup of nine fillies and mares is set to compete in the 37th edition of the Grade 1 Jenny Wiley race, scheduled for Saturday, April 12. The event, featuring a purse of $650,000, will take place over a distance of 1 1/16 miles on the grass course. Among the standout competitors are Be Your Best and Sacred Wish, who previously finished first and second in the Grade 2 Pegasus World Cup Filly and Mare Turf Invitational. Trained by notable figures in the horse racing world, these horses bring an impressive array of credentials and achievements to the competition.
Be Your Best, under the guidance of trainer Saffie Joseph Jr., has been in exceptional form recently, winning three consecutive races. Her victory in the Grade 2 Pegasus World Cup was narrow but decisive, with jockey Irad Ortiz Jr. guiding her to success. This marks Ortiz's return to the Jenny Wiley after securing a win in the previous year with In Italian. Meanwhile, Sacred Wish, trained by George Weaver, stands out as the lone Grade 1 winner in the field, having triumphed in the Matriarch race last fall at Del Mar. She will be ridden by John Velazquez, who previously claimed the Jenny Wiley title in 2018 aboard Sistercharlie.
In addition to these formidable contenders, Chad Brown, renowned for his dominance in recent editions of the Jenny Wiley, will enter Excellent Truth. This horse, owned by Resolute Racing, made significant strides last summer in France and is now set to make her U.S. debut. Two other international entrants, Choisya and Jabaara, also aim to make their mark in American racing for the first time. Choisya boasts two Group 2 victories in Europe, while Jabaara represents Godolphin under the training of Roger Varian.
The Jenny Wiley race will serve as the 10th race on the card, with a post time of 5:48 p.m. EDT. Fans eagerly anticipate the outcome, as this prestigious event showcases some of the finest equine talent from both domestic and international circuits.
This highly anticipated race promises thrilling competition among seasoned champions and promising newcomers. As spectators look forward to witnessing top-tier performances, the legacy of excellence in the Jenny Wiley continues to grow, reflecting the dedication and skill of trainers, owners, and jockeys alike. With such a stellar field assembled, all eyes will be on Keeneland this Saturday to see which horse can claim glory in one of horse racing's most respected contests.