The Ruling Angel Stakes, a six-furlong sprint for three-year-old fillies, is set to take place at Will Rogers Downs on Saturday, May 17, 2025. This stakes race, sponsored by Ketel One, promises a competitive field featuring emerging talent from top barns.
Race Details
- Track: Will Rogers Downs, Claremore, Oklahoma
- Distance: 6 furlongs
- Surface: Dirt
- Purse: $75,000
- Post Time: 3:45 p.m. CT
- Broadcast: TVG, FanDuel Racing
Top Contenders & Analysis
1. Take Me Serious (Trainer: J.S. Offolter | Jockey: Richard Eramia)
- Pedigree: By Into Mischief out of Serious Affair (by Tapit)
- Recent Form: Winner of the 2024 Horse of the Meet title at Will Rogers Downs.
- Strengths: Proven track record at WRD, tactical speed, and ability to handle pressure.
- Concerns: Faces younger, improving rivals who may challenge her dominance.
2. Mandolin Wind (Trainer: A.T. Hartman | Jockey: Curtis Kimes)
- Pedigree: By Curlin out of Songbird’s Echo (by Medaglia d’Oro)
- Recent Form: Strong second-place finish in the Miranda Diane Stakes.
- Strengths: Versatile running style, capable of pressing the pace or closing late.
- Concerns: Needs a clean trip to avoid traffic issues in a crowded field.
3. Vita’s Song (Trainer: F. Bravo | Jockey: Ezequiel Lara)
- Pedigree: By Gun Runner out of Vita Bella (by Pioneerof the Nile)
- Recent Form: Winner of an allowance race at WRD, showing sharp early speed.
- Strengths: Early speed advantage, potential to dictate the pace.
- Concerns: Unproven against stakes-level competition.
4. Mi Sonrisa (Trainer: F. Bravo | Jockey: Alfredo Pusac)
- Pedigree: By Uncle Mo out of Laughing Lady (by Distorted Humor)
- Recent Form: Third-place finish in the TRAO Classic Sprint.
- Strengths: Consistent performances, strong finishing kick.
- Concerns: Needs a fast pace to set up her late charge.
Race Strategy & Predictions
- Front Runners: Vita’s Song and Take Me Serious will likely push the early pace.
- Mid-Pack Stalkers: Mandolin Wind and Mi Sonrisa will sit just off the leaders, waiting to strike.
- Closers: If the pace is too hot, expect Mi Sonrisa to make a late surge.
