The Brookmeade Stakes at Colonial Downs is set to electrify the turf on Saturday, July 20, 2025, featuring a competitive field of Virginia-bred fillies and mares vying for glory over 1 1/16 miles. With a purse of $125,000, this stakes race is a prime opportunity for emerging turf talent to shine.
Top Contenders & Pedigree Insights
| Horse Name | Jockey | Trainer | Pedigree Highlights | Morning Line Odds |
| Mila Candy | Silvestre Gonzalez | Ilkay Kantarmaci | Twirling Candy × Filia (Fastnet Rock) | 8-5 Favorite |
| Quadra | Mychel Sanchez | Arnaud Delacour | Frosted × Quadrant (War Front) | 2-1 |
| Thursday Girl | Sheldon Russell | Brittany Russell | Not Available | 4-1 |
| Buzzaway | Jevian Toledo | Horacio De Paz | Not Available | 9-2 |
| Sun Cross | Ben Curtis | Brittany Russell | Not Available | 6-1 |
| Gold Dart | Denis Araujo | Christopher Keller | Not Available | 30-1 Longshot |
Pedigree Power Plays
Mila Candy boasts elite turf potential as a half-sibling to Determined Kingdom, the 2024 Virginia-Bred Horse of the Year. Her sire, Twirling Candy, is known for producing versatile turf runners. Quadra, bred by Audley Farm Stable, is a homebred filly with a strong turf lineage. Her dam, Quadrant, by War Front, adds depth to her stamina and turf aptitude. Buzzaway enters off a win at Laurel Park, showing late speed and adaptability—traits often linked to her sire line.
Jockey & Trainer Dynamics
Mychel Sanchez, aboard Quadra, has a proven record with this filly, having guided her to her maiden win. Sanchez is also named to ride in all four stakes races this weekend, signaling high confidence from connections. Silvestre Gonzalez partners with Mila Candy, who is making her turf debut. Kantarmaci’s training style often emphasizes conditioning for stretch runs, which could suit this filly’s pedigree. Brittany Russell sends out two contenders—Thursday Girl and Sun Cross—both of whom have shown flashes of form but need to step up to stakes level.
Race Strategy
Expect Mila Candy to be forwardly placed, testing her turf stamina early. Quadra may stalk the pace and unleash a late kick, especially with Sanchez’s tactical riding. Buzzaway could be the sleeper pick, coming off a gritty win and showing improving form.
