Never underestimate a champion. This age-old lesson was reiterated to handicappers and racing fans alike when the sensational, speedy mare Groupie Doll defied age and expectations in the 2013 Breeders’ Cup Filly and Mare Sprint.
The Puma made a huge move around the far turn under jockey Javier Castellano, opened up a three-length lead through the stretch, and held off a late charge from Further Ado to win the $1 million Grade 1 Pennsylvania Derby by a half-length Sept. 19 at Parx Racing.
The 6,000 fortunate fans on hand Sept. 18 at Belmont Park were treated to everything they wanted to see.
As “Beautiful Belmont Park” reopened Sept. 18 after a three-year construction project, fans and horsemen were treated to the debut of a sparkling, more space-efficient, ultra-modern facility for enjoying racing in the 21st century.
Entering the 2015 Breeders’ Cup World Championships, the first ever at Keeneland Race Course in Lexington, there were no shortage of compelling storylines, including the first Triple Crown winner since 1978, American Pharoah, attempting to close out his career with a win in the Breeders’ Cup Classic.
