Post by Kenren on Mar 15, 2016 20:50:32 GMT -5
STALLION SPOTLIGHT
BACIAMI (Comeuppance x Cute Italian)
While not necessarily the top of his crop at any given point, Baciami already undoubtedly has proven himself as an amazing competitor. He took the Florida Derby and the Cigar Red Mile at three, as well as placing second in a strong Kentucky Derby field. At four he has not disappointed - after running undercards to take his form to grade one status, Ami ran his first HOTY* race this month and came in a commendable second to Reflected In Water. As it's so early in the year and the Classic route is empty as far as the Valkyrie string, this stallion could find himself rising to a very heated challenge, just as his personality would suggest. He's already impressed, but he has so much more to give, and is already knocking on the door of the big leagues.
MARE SPOTLIGHT
SPITTERFLY (Spitz x Sweet Stalker)
After being a top competitor for the Turf Triple Tiara early in her classic season, Spitterfly practically dropped off the map as far as being a major competitor. However, missing the longer turf races didn't bother her any - in a season where she accumulated seven wins, the filly placed in the last two legs of the Turf Triple Sprinter Tiara, proving her incredibly versatility. And as March draws to a close, it seems that she is going to be even stronger this year. The mare won both of her starts this month, including the Deadly Desires Memorial Stakes* - and this before she's even reached grade one status. We have suddenly found ourselves with a firing match between three top-class, up-and-coming filly and mare turf division contenders. Against Stalking The Stars and likely Wild Determination, Spitterfly is right in the mix and is sure to do her pedigree proud.
COLT SPOTLIGHT
LADDIE LUCK (Foolish Lad x Castle Siege)
What to call this colt other than a rising star? Already living up to the dreams placed on him, the first foal of Valkyrie homebred mare Castle Siege. Laddie Luck ran two incredibly impressive races this month, the first in the Finish Cup, where he won over a large and strong field of juveniles. The second was a place in yet another strong field, a result that doesn't hinder him in the least. Laddie Luck, as long as things continue to go well for him, will be on the trail to the Turf Challenge and eventually the Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf.
FILLY SPOTLIGHT
SANTANA'S LEGEND (Black Legend x Sweet Points)
One of only two foals of the deceased stallion Black Legend, Santana's Legend continues to defy expectations and 'rules' around prominent pedigrees to place herself firmly in the conversation. After placing third yet again against the boys in the Prince Cup first out this month, the decision was made to run her against the girls - and she put all doubters to rest. While she has been campaigned hard against the boys for the Turf Triple Crown, it may be in her best interest to run her against the Tiara fillies instead. "We were hoping Sweet Mimosa would be ready for the Tiara, and we didn't want to cross their paths over," said trainer Cole Mavecci. "But Sweet Mimosa just doesn't look quite as competitive at this stage and Santana's Legend obviously took well to the field in the Black Caviar." Because as Valkyrie horse National Treasure did in the past, Santana's Legend impressed in the Black Caviar Stakes and if things portend well, she has much more left to give.
TEMPLATE CREDITED TO MEGOSHKA OF GS
I am keeping my eye on him and your others. Really nice group Kennykins! Spitterfly is really rising strong. Your other star Stalking The Stars is going to be competition for her, but should be interesting to watch. 
