The Grade I Jenny Wiley Stakes at Keeneland Race Park is one of the premier turf races for fillies and mares aged four and older. Scheduled for Saturday, April 12, 2025, this prestigious event will be contested over 1 1/16 miles on turf, with a purse of $600,000. The race has attracted a stellar field of turf specialists, showcasing top-class pedigrees, accomplished trainers, and elite jockeys.
Field Overview
Regal Glory
Jockey: Flavien Prat
Trainer: Chad Brown
Pedigree: By Animal Kingdom out of Glory Days (by Tapit)
Analysis: A proven Grade I winner, Regal Glory is a versatile mare with a strong turn of foot. Her adaptability to various pace scenarios makes her a top contender.
Shantisara
Jockey: Irad Ortiz Jr
Trainer: Chad Brown
Pedigree: By Coulsty (IRE) out of Kharana (IRE) (by Dalakhani)
Analysis: The defending champion of this race, Shantisara has an impressive record on turf and thrives at this distance. Her dominant win in the Queen Elizabeth II Challenge Cup solidifies her credentials.
In Italian
Jockey: Joel Rosario
Trainer: Chad Brown
Pedigree: By Dubawi (IRE) out of Florentina (by Redoute’s Choice)
Lady Spikespear
Jockey: Luis Saez
Trainer: Roger Attfield
Pedigree: By Speightstown out of Lady Shakespeare (by Theatrical)
Analysis: A talented mare with a strong pedigree, Lady Spikespear has struggled in recent starts but could benefit from a slower pace and shorter distance.
Navratilova
Jockey: Tyler Gaffalione
Trainer: Rusty Arnold II
Pedigree: By Medaglia d’Oro out of Centre Court (by Smart Strike)
Analysis: A consistent performer on turf, Navratilova will need to step up against this elite field but has the pedigree to compete.
Scarabilla
Jockey: John Velazquez
Trainer: Graham Motion
Pedigree: By Kitten’s Joy out of Bella Rosa (by War Front)
Analysis: A mare with a preference for longer distances, Scarabilla will need a strong pace to showcase her closing kick.
Wallyak
Jockey: Julien Leparoux
Trainer: Christophe Clement
Pedigree: By Frankel (GB) out of Wally (IRE) (by Oasis Dream)
Analysis: A lightly raced filly with international pedigree, Wallyak has shown promise in her North American debut and could be a sleeper pick.
Race Dynamics
The Jenny Wiley Stakes is expected to feature a tactical pace, with horses like In Italian and Lady Spikespear likely to set the tempo. Closers such as Shantisara and Regal Glory will look to capitalize on a fast pace, while versatile runners like Navratilova could adapt to any scenario. Keeneland’s turf course often favors horses with a strong turn of foot and the ability to accelerate late.
Key Contenders
Regal Glory: A seasoned mare with multiple Grade I victories, she is the class of the field.
Shantisara: The defending champion with a proven record at Keeneland, she is a major threat.
In Italian: With tactical speed and consistency, she could control the pace and hold off challengers.
Wallyak: A promising filly with international pedigree, she could surprise with the right trip.
