In a surprising turn of events, Wild Bout Hilary emerged victorious in the Grade 3, $250,000 Bayakoa Stakes at Oaklawn on Saturday. Despite being the longest shot in the race with odds of 16-1, this four-year-old filly demonstrated exceptional prowess and secured an impressive win. Trained by Tracy Tanner and ridden by C.J. McMahon, Wild Bout Hilary took the lead early and managed to hold it despite challenges from seasoned competitors. This victory marked Tanner's first graded-stakes win and added a significant sum to the filly's career earnings.

The race unfolded under clear skies at Oaklawn Park, where Wild Bout Hilary quickly established herself as the frontrunner. As the field of five horses approached the first turn, she had already built a slight advantage over Free Like a Girl. Maintaining her lead throughout the 1 1/16-mile race, Wild Bout Hilary set moderate fractions that kept her opponents at bay. Trainer Tracy Tanner’s strategic preparation seemed to pay off as the filly showed remarkable stamina and resilience.

Ricardo Santana Jr., aboard Free Like a Girl, began to apply pressure on the far turn, but Wild Bout Hilary remained unfazed. The favorite, Loved, tried to advance along the three path, yet struggled to make significant ground. As they entered the stretch, both Free Like a Girl and Loved attempted one last push, but Wild Bout Hilary dug deep and extended her lead. By the finish line, she had triumphed by a head over Free Like a Girl, with Loved trailing slightly behind.

This unexpected win not only earned Wild Bout Hilary and her connections a substantial payday but also highlighted the unpredictable nature of horse racing. The filly, bred in Kentucky by Clearsky Farms and owned by 5 Finger Racing, returned a generous $34 for every $2 wagered on her. Her total career earnings now stand at $305,340, with this victory adding a significant boost. For trainer Tracy Tanner, this moment was particularly sweet, marking his first win in a graded stakes event.