Undefeated Grade I Winner Vacare to Skip Breeders' Cup

(Edited DAK Productions release)
After much deliberation, owner Robert L. Lothenbach decided against pre-entering his prized 3-year-old turf filly Vacare in the Breeders' Cup Filly and Mare Turf (gr. IT).

Vacare, who was last seen winning the grade I Queen Elizabeth II Challenge Cup over the Keeneland green on Oct. 14, is perfect from four starts. She also counts the Grade III Pucker Up Stakes at Arlington among her victories.

"There will several reasons we decided against it (the Breeders' Cup)," said trainer Chris Block. "The competition jump off short (three weeks) rest, the additional distance (11 furlongs versus nine), and the fact that her schedule did not revolve around the Breeders' Cup this year were the mitigating factors. Heck, in June she was an unraced maiden."

Vacare is catalogued in the Fasig-Tipton Kentucky Fall Mixed sale to be held in Lexington on Sunday, Nov. 5, the day after Breeders' Cup. She is consigned by Chesapeake Farm of Drew Nardiello.

"She would have to be a prime prospect for a potential buyer," Block said. "She's fresh, isn't overraced, and with several of the top females in the division likely to retire, she could quickly become one of the new stars. Mr. Lothenbach will set a reserve, and if it is not met, it will be a pleasure for us to campaign her next year."