In a significant move within the horse racing industry, two graded-stakes placed horses, Justique and Mc Vay, have been transferred to the barn of trainer Cherie DeVaux. The shift comes as the California-based CRK Stable, owned by Lee and Susan Searing, continues to expand its presence beyond the West Coast, with multiple horses now racing at Horseshoe Indianapolis under the tutelage of trainer Peter Eurton.

Reshuffling the Deck: Trainers Adapt to Changing Tides

Justique's Journey: From Maiden Breaker to Graded Stakes Contender

Justique, a 4-year-old daughter of the esteemed sire Justify, has carved out an impressive racing career thus far. After breaking her maiden on debut at Del Mar in July 2022, the talented filly went on to capture the Desi Arnaz Stakes that autumn at the same seaside track. Though she has yet to find the winner's circle since those early triumphs, Justique has consistently performed at the graded stakes level, placing in five such events, including a runner-up finish behind Uncorked in the Royal Heroine (G3) at Santa Anita in April. With a record of 15: 2-2-4 and earnings of $246,540, Justique has proven herself to be a force to be reckoned with on the West Coast circuit. Her move to the DeVaux barn presents an opportunity for the talented mare to potentially expand her horizons and seek new challenges beyond her familiar stomping grounds.

Mc Vay's Maturation: From Maiden to Derby Contender

Mc Vay, a 3-year-old colt by the sire Constitution, has also been part of the CRK Stable's shifting landscape. The young colt's journey has been one of steady progression, from his initial maiden-breaking victory by seven lengths at Santa Anita Park in May to his subsequent third-place finish behind Imagination in the prestigious San Felipe (G2) on March 3. Though still a maiden when he took on the Kentucky Derby trail, Mc Vay's potential was evident, and his move to the DeVaux barn could signal a new chapter in his development as a racehorse. With a record of 8: 1-1-1, Mc Vay has demonstrated the ability to compete at the graded stakes level, and his relocation to the East Coast could open up new avenues for the colt to showcase his talents.

Expanding Horizons: CRK Stable's Eastward Shift

The transfer of Justique and Mc Vay to the DeVaux barn is part of a broader trend within the CRK Stable's operations. The California-based ownership group, led by Lee and Susan Searing, has been steadily expanding its presence beyond the West Coast, with multiple horses now racing at Horseshoe Indianapolis under the guidance of trainer Peter Eurton. This eastward shift reflects the stable's desire to explore new opportunities and challenge their horses on a wider stage.The decision to move Justique and Mc Vay to the DeVaux barn aligns with this strategic expansion. Cherie DeVaux, a respected and accomplished trainer, will now be tasked with unlocking the full potential of these talented racehorses. The move could open up new avenues for the horses, exposing them to different racing surfaces, competition, and training methodologies that could ultimately enhance their performances and propel them to greater success.

Navigating the Changing Landscape: Trainers Adapt and Evolve

The shuffling of horses between trainers is a common occurrence in the dynamic world of horse racing, as owners and trainers alike seek to optimize the performance and development of their equine athletes. In the case of Justique and Mc Vay, the transition to the DeVaux barn represents a strategic decision by the CRK Stable to explore new opportunities and expand their reach beyond their traditional West Coast stronghold.For trainers like John Shirreffs, who previously oversaw the development of Justique and Mc Vay, the loss of these horses is a natural part of the industry's ebb and flow. Trainers must constantly adapt to changes in ownership, horse movement, and the ever-evolving competitive landscape. By embracing these shifts, they can position themselves and their stables for continued success, seeking out new challenges and opportunities to showcase their skills and the talents of their equine charges.As the horse racing world continues to evolve, the relocation of Justique and Mc Vay to the DeVaux barn serves as a testament to the industry's adaptability and the willingness of owners and trainers to explore new frontiers in pursuit of excellence.