F&M Sprint: Eclectic Possibilites

A race still searching for its identity, the Sentient Flight Group Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Sprint has the potential to be many things. Is it a main-track sprint for distaffers? Perhaps it’s a shorter option for those smart enough to duck Zenyatta in the Ladies’ Classic (gr. I) or a way to avoid males and a traditionally overcrowded field on turf in the Breeders’ Cup Mile (gr. IT).

At seven furlongs, the race looks as if it will draw an eclectic field. Indian Blessing will likely go as the justified favorite based on her nearly perfect record and flawless performances at anything under a mile. But don’t discount the buzz saw front-runner Dearest Trickski, whose heart will take her as far as her tiny frame will allow. Indian Blessing is also entered in the Sprint, but this is her first preference.

Intangaroo has successfully crisscrossed the country this year. She carries the hopes of the Grether family, whose patriarch, Tom Grether, died in mid-2007 just hours after his final bet paid off—on Intangaroo breaking her maiden at Hollywood Park.

Want current form? It doesn’t get much better than Indyanne winning the six-furlong Thoroughbred Club of America Stakes (gr. III) Oct. 4 at Keeneland over many who may return in the Filly & Mare Sprint. Though Indyanne has yet to travel beyond six furlongs, she has five wins and a second in six lifetime starts.

West Coast locals Tizzy’s Tune, Tiz Elemental, and Magnificience will also try to take down the Filly & Mare Sprint.

And never underestimate trainer Bobby Frankel, who switches Ventura from turf to Pro-Ride. After all, she did win the Vinery Madison Stakes (gr. II) at Keeneland over seven furlongs of Polytrack. She also is entered in the Mile, but the Filly & Mare Sprint is her first preference.