Champagne d'Oro, who relinquished the lead late to finish second in the Fair Grounds Oaks (gr. II), turned in her final workout for the Kentucky Oaks (gr. I) over a sloppy track at Churchill Downs on Saturday, April 24.
The daughter of Medaglia d'Oro out of Champagne Glow (by Saratoga Six), was timed in 1:16 2/5 for six furlongs, slowest among three horses working that distance.
While the time was not exceptionally fast, trainer Eric Guillot said it was exactly what he wanted, considering the track conditions. "It was a maintenance work," the trainer said, noting that the rider did not extend the filly due to the muddy conditions. "She handled the mud well."
Guillot said he expects the filly owned by Southern Equine Stable and Mike Smith would make a good showing in the Oaks.
"She will run big," Guillot said, adding that "I can’t get her any better. Everything is good in the Champagne d’Oro camp."
Despite finishing second to Quiet Temper in the Fair Grounds Oaks, Champagne d’Oro ran a good race, her trainer said. He noted that the filly got a lot out of the race, which was her second outing of the year and followed her maiden victory.
Champagne d’Oro, bred in Kentucky by Liberation Farm, has one win to her credit in eight starts. She has earned $107,622.