A thrilling performance by Lael Stables' Landed secured her victory in Sunday's $125,000 Broadway Stakes at Aqueduct Racetrack. The race, a seven-furlong sprint for older New York-bred fillies and mares, saw Landed lead from start to finish under jockey Frankie Pennington. This win marks Landed's third stakes triumph, following victories in the Bouwerie and Fleet Indian last summer. Trainer Wesley Ward praised Landed's consistent performance and natural speed, which contributed significantly to her success. With this win, Landed has now earned a total of $366,760 in her career.
Landed emerged from the inside post position and quickly took the lead despite a brief bump with another competitor. She set a quick pace, completing the opening quarter-mile in 23.17 seconds on the fast track. Pennington noted that Landed's natural speed allowed him to maintain the front position effortlessly. As they entered the backstretch, Speightful Lily applied pressure from the outside, while My Magic Wand and Sweet Brown Sugar followed closely behind. Despite the challenge, Landed maintained her lead throughout the race, crossing the finish line one length ahead of Sweet Brown Sugar. The final time was 1:24.78.
Trainer Wesley Ward expressed confidence in Landed's ability to handle the race after a four-month break. He acknowledged that the weather conditions in Kentucky had affected her training schedule but emphasized her determination and readiness. Landed, purchased for $500,000 at the Fasig-Tipton Saratoga Select Yearling Sale, comes from a lineage of successful racehorses. Her next appearance is likely to be in the spring at Keeneland, where Ward plans to prepare her for upcoming races. Ward also mentioned that Landed will return to New York for the rest of the spring and summer season.
Jockey Lane Luzzi, who rode Sweet Brown Sugar, commended the filly's effort in the race. Although finishing second, Luzzi noted that Sweet Brown Sugar battled hard until the end. He added that with a slightly longer distance, Sweet Brown Sugar might have had a chance to overtake Landed. Racing at Aqueduct Racetrack resumes on Thursday with an eight-race card, offering more exciting opportunities for horse racing enthusiasts.