Borel
Commits to 'Rachel'; Filly to Preakness
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Stonestreet Stables and partner Harold T. McCormick announced May 8
that Calvin Borel has agreed to ride Kentucky Oaks (gr. I) winner
Rachel Alexandra for the current racing season. Also, Stonestreet said
it plans to run the filly in the May 16 Preakness Stakes (gr. I).
In making the decision, Borel selected the filly over Mine That Bird,
whom he rode to an upset victory in the Kentucky Derby Presented by
Yum! Brands (gr. I). Mine That Bird is also being pointed toward the
Preakness.
“It came down to the facts that he (Borel) knows and loves this horse,
that he knows how to get the most from her, and he knows how to win,’’
said Jess Jackson of Stonestreet Stables and proprietor of
Kendall-Jackson Wine Estates. “They were an amazing team at the
Kentucky Oaks—winning by over 20 lengths. We think this is a perfect
match of rider and horse.’’
Jackson said Rachel Alexandra will continue her workout schedule under
trainer Steve Asmussen.
“If she continues to be in perfect condition, our intention will be to
run her in the Preakness,” Jackson said, adding that the final
decision would be made next week.