Trainer Whit Beckman experienced a remarkable day at the Fair Grounds, where her fillies showcased exceptional performance. Her Laugh dominated the $100,000 Untapable Stakes with an impressive gate-to-wire victory, while Simply Joking triumphed in the $100,000 Letellier Memorial earlier in the day. Both races highlighted the potential of these young horses and their readiness for future challenges. The victories not only earned significant points towards prestigious events but also demonstrated Beckman’s adeptness in preparing her horses for peak performance.
Her Laugh emerged as a standout performer, leading from start to finish in the 1-mile, 70-yard Untapable Stakes. This victory marked her second consecutive win, following her debut success at Churchill Downs. The filly's composed demeanor and strategic positioning under jockey Axel Concepcion were key factors in securing the win. Her Laugh's performance has positioned her favorably for the Kentucky Oaks (G1), earning crucial points that could influence her future racing prospects.
In this thrilling race, Her Laugh maintained a comfortable lead throughout, crossing the finish line 2½ lengths ahead of Golden Gamble. The final time of 1:43.72 reflected her strength and endurance. Trainer Beckman emphasized the importance of letting the horse find its rhythm early on, which proved to be a winning strategy. Concepcion noted the filly's exceptional talent, having observed her potential during training sessions in Kentucky. Her Laugh's consistency and adaptability have made her a promising contender in the world of thoroughbred racing.
Beckman's expertise was further underscored by the dual victories of Her Laugh and Simply Joking. Simply Joking's win in the Letellier Memorial added to the day's achievements, demonstrating the trainer's ability to prepare multiple horses for top performances. Both fillies are owned by Grantley Acres and share the same sire, Practical Joke, highlighting the quality breeding behind their success. The day's results not only boosted the morale of the team but also set a positive trajectory for upcoming races.
The success of both fillies can be attributed to Beckman's meticulous preparation and strategic approach. Each horse was placed in optimal conditions to maximize their strengths. Simply Joking's victory in the sprint event showcased her speed and agility, while Her Laugh's endurance in the longer race revealed her versatility. The combination of skilled training and talented horses created a memorable day at the Fair Grounds. Additionally, Built's commanding win in the Gun Runner further added to the excitement, earning valuable Derby points and reinforcing the overall excellence of the day's racing.