Venue: Saratoga Race Course, Saratoga Springs, NY
Surface: Turf (2m 3f)
Purse: $195,000 (Winner: $117,000)
Broadcast: TVG, FanDuel Racing
Race Overview
The Grade I Beverly R. Steinman Hurdle Handicap at Saratoga Race Course is set to be a thrilling test of stamina and jumping ability, featuring seven elite contenders battling over two miles and three furlongs on firm turf. With a strong field of experienced hurdlers, this race promises strategic jockeying and high-speed action.
Field & Key Contenders
| Horse | Age | Trainer | Jockey | Official Rating | Recent Form |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carloun (IRE) | 6 | Keri Brion | Patrick O’Hanlon | 92 | -P1113 |
| Awakened (USA) | 8 | Jack Fisher | Graham Watters | 91 | -54/33 |
| Evie’s Prince (USA) | 8 | Neil Morris | Bernard Dalton | 89 | 1x7x1148x7 |
| Sultan Pierji (FR) | 5 | Thomas Garner | Evan Dwan | 88 | 33x325x7x2 |
| Proven Innocent (USA) | 7 | Jack Fisher | Freddie Procter | 85 | 13x45x68x4 |
| Little Trilby (GB) | 5 | Richard Hendriks | Gerard Galligan | 83 | 071176×8 |
| Auction Kingdom (USA) | 6 | Neil Morris | Dan Nevin | 82 | 7241x2x22x |
Horse Profiles & Pedigree Analysis
- Carloun (IRE) – A dominant front-runner, Carloun has won three of his last four races, showcasing elite stamina and jumping ability. Sired by Fame And Glory, he is expected to set the pace early.
- Awakened (USA) – A versatile hurdler, Awakened has placed in five of his last six starts, proving his tactical adaptability. His pedigree traces back to Hard Spun, known for producing strong stayers.
- Evie’s Prince (USA) – A late closer, Evie’s Prince thrives in fast-paced races, often making powerful stretch runs. He is a son of Empire Maker, inheriting stamina and finishing ability.
- Sultan Pierji (FR) – A progressive gelding, Sultan Pierji has shown steady improvement, winning his last outing with a strong closing kick. His sire, Saint Des Saints, is renowned for jumping prowess.
- Proven Innocent (USA) – A seasoned competitor, Proven Innocent has a proven track record but struggled in his last race. His pedigree includes Kitten’s Joy, known for producing elite turf runners.
- Little Trilby (GB) – A dominant hurdler, Little Trilby has won two of his last three races, showcasing exceptional durability and tactical speed. Sired by Nathaniel, he possesses elite stamina.
- Auction Kingdom (USA) – A rising talent, Auction Kingdom has won three of his last five races, proving his explosive speed. His sire, Lemon Drop Kid, is known for producing high-class stayers.
Jockey & Trainer Insights
- Patrick O’Hanlon (Carloun) – One of Saratoga’s top jockeys, O’Hanlon has a high win percentage in hurdle races.
- Graham Watters (Awakened) – A tactically sharp rider, Watters excels in positioning his mounts for late surges.
- Gerard Galligan (Little Trilby) – A patient jockey, Galligan is known for timing his finishes perfectly.
- Jack Fisher (Trainer of Awakened & Proven Innocent) – A dominant force in hurdle training, Fisher’s horses consistently perform at elite levels.
- Neil Morris (Trainer of Evie’s Prince & Auction Kingdom) – A seasoned trainer, Morris has guided multiple stakes winners at Saratoga.
Race Strategy & Betting Insights
- Carloun is expected to set the pace, utilizing his early speed to control the race.
- Awakened and Evie’s Prince will likely stalk the leaders, waiting for an opening in the stretch.
- Sultan Pierji could challenge late, relying on his explosive finishing ability.
- Proven Innocent and Little Trilby may struggle against faster competition, but could capitalize on a pace collapse.
Predicted Finish:
- Carloun 🏆
- Sultan Pierji
- Awakened
How to Watch & Follow
Fans can catch the action live on TVG and FanDuel Racing. For real-time updates, follow @SaratogaRacing on social media.
