The Dig A Diamond Stakes is set to take place on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Oaklawn Park in Hot Springs, Arkansas, rather than Gulfstream Park. This one-mile dirt race for older fillies and mares offers a $200,000 purse and promises an exciting contest featuring a mix of seasoned competitors and rising stars.
Horses and Pedigrees:
- Hoosier Philly
- Pedigree: Sired by Into Mischief, one of the most successful sires in North America, Hoosier Philly boasts a lineage known for speed and versatility.
- Trainer: Tom Amoss
- Jockey: Edgar Morales
- Analysis: The defending champion of the Dig A Diamond Stakes, Hoosier Philly is the 8-5 program favorite. She has nearly $1 million in career earnings and combines tactical speed with adaptability, making her a strong contender.
- Our Pretty Woman
- Pedigree: Sired by Medaglia d’Oro, known for producing durable and talented offspring.
- Trainer: Steve Asmussen
- Jockey: Keith Asmussen
- Analysis: A consistent performer, Our Pretty Woman finished second in the Fair Grounds Oaks last year. She enters the race as the 5-2 second choice and will look to capitalize on her class and experience.
- Bru Na Boinne
- Pedigree: Sired by Arrogate, a champion known for his stamina and dominance.
- Trainer: Bret Calhoun
- Jockey: Ramon A. Vazquez
- Analysis: Bru Na Boinne comes off a victory in the Trivista Overnight Stakes and will aim to carry that momentum into this race.
- Rose Palace
- Pedigree: Sired by Palace, known for producing versatile runners.
- Trainer: Tammy Hornsby
- Jockey: Francisco Arrieta
- Analysis: Rose Palace recently won the Lapatourel Overnight Stakes and has shown promise in her recent outings.
- Majestic Oops
- Pedigree: Sired by Majestic Harbor, known for producing durable and consistent offspring.
- Trainer: Dan Ward
- Jockey: Abel Cedillo
- Analysis: Majestic Oops enters the race off a win in an allowance race earlier this month, showcasing her readiness for stakes competition.
Race Analysis:
The Dig A Diamond Stakes features a competitive field with a mix of proven performers and emerging talents. Hoosier Philly’s tactical speed and versatility make her the favorite, but she will face stiff competition from Our Pretty Woman and Bru Na Boinne, both of whom have shown strong form in recent races. Rose Palace and Majestic Oops add depth to the field, making this a race where strategy and execution will be key.