The Grade II Alysheba Stakes presented by Sentient Jet is set to captivate racing fans on May 2, 2025, at Churchill Downs. This prestigious race for 4-year-olds and up covers 1 1/16 miles on dirt and boasts a lucrative purse of $750,000.
1. Katonah
- Jockey: Antonio Fresu
- Trainer: Doug F. O’Neill
- Owner: R3 Racing, LLC (Ron Arakelian, III)
- Breeder: Haymarket Farm LLC
- Pedigree: By Klimt out of Ctimene (by Equineline Reports).
- Odds: 20/1
- Analysis: Katonah is a seasoned gelding with a solid record in allowance races. While he faces a class test here, his connections are experienced, and he could surprise with a strong trip.
2. Locked
- Jockey: Jose L. Ortiz
- Trainer: Todd A. Pletcher
- Owner: Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners (Aron Wellman) and Walmac Farm (Gary Broad)
- Breeder: Rosa Colasanti
- Pedigree: By Gun Runner out of Luna Rosa (by Equineline Reports).
- Odds: 2/1
- Analysis: Locked is a multiple Grade 1 winner with a dominant victory in the Santa Anita Handicap. His pedigree combines speed and stamina, and he enters as one of the top contenders.
3. Hall of Fame
- Jockey: Joel Rosario
- Trainer: Steven M. Asmussen
- Owner: Mrs. John Magnier, Michael B. Tabor, Derrick Smith, Westerberg (Michael Kuessner), and Brook T. Smith
- Breeder: Earle I. Mack LLC
- Pedigree: By Gun Runner out of Flag Day (by Equineline Reports).
- Odds: 4/1
- Analysis: Hall of Fame has been consistent in graded stakes, showcasing versatility. With Joel Rosario aboard, he’s a strong contender to challenge the favorites.
4. Fierceness
- Jockey: John R. Velazquez
- Trainer: Todd A. Pletcher
- Owner: Repole Stable (Mike Repole), Mrs. John Magnier, Derrick Smith, and Michael B. Tabor
- Breeder: Repole Stable, Inc.
- Pedigree: By City of Light out of Nonna Bella (by Equineline Reports).
- Odds: 6/5 (Favorite)
- Analysis: Fierceness is the morning-line favorite and a multiple Grade 1 winner. His pedigree and connections make him the horse to beat, and his tactical speed is a significant advantage.
5. Most Wanted
- Jockey: Florent Geroux
- Trainer: Brad H. Cox
- Owner: Gary and Mary West
- Breeder: Gary & Mary West Stables Inc.
- Pedigree: By Candy Ride (ARG) out of Beach Walk (by Equineline Reports).
- Odds: 7/2
- Analysis: Most Wanted is a consistent performer with a strong closing kick. His pedigree suggests he’ll relish the distance, and he’s a major player in this field.
6. This Is Uscar
- Jockey: Edgar Morales
- Trainer: Jordan Blair
- Owner: Table 38 Racing, LLC (Eliot Honaker) and KatieRich Stables, LLC (Lawrence P. Doyle)
- Breeder: Katierich Farms
- Pedigree: By Oscar Performance out of Journey On (by Equineline Reports).
- Odds: 30/1
- Analysis: This Is Uscar is the longshot of the field. While his form is modest, his connections are optimistic about his potential to improve.
Race Outlook
The Alysheba Stakes promises to be a thrilling showdown, with Fierceness and Locked leading the charge. Hall of Fame and Most Wanted are strong challengers, while Katonah and This Is Uscar will look to upset the favorites. With a mix of proven Grade 1 winners and emerging talent, this race is a must-watch event.
