We’re going to see the running of the 2009 Adirondack Stakes at Saratoga tomorrow evening and while the money-line shows Beautician as the bettor’s favorite, the story of Dashing Debby is looking a little too familiar to some keen racing observers. A daughter of Medaglia D’Oro, Dashing Debby’s story could be mistaken for that of her half-sister Rachel Alexandra, and with an equally impressive performance in tomorrow’s Adirondack Stakes, we could be seeing the preview to a potential Triple Crown contender.
It’s becoming more and more in vogue for the filly’s to run against the boys in the biggest dances of the year and Rachel Alexandra has been this year’s sensation. I could see trainer Gerald Procino pushing for a similar narrative next year. Should Dashing Debby get the job done in style, I would also anticipate an appearance at the Breeders this year.
She scored in the J J Dream Stakes at Calder, besting a field of 8 that included Miss Delite, Joanie’s Catch and Setting the Rate. The current odds have her listed at around 7/2 and I think part of her dropping price has to do with her coming out of the 1 slot. With the speed I expect her to bring to this race, I expect this to be a very pacey 6.5 furlongs.
The current favourite is Beautician, who just missed out on a win in the Grade 3 Schuylerville Stakes at Saratoga three weeks ago. Hot Dixie Chick won the day, but she’ll have Kent Desormeaux on board again for this ride, but I’m going to be one of the punters piling onto Dashing Debby. I think Debby’s going to do Saratoga tomorrow.
Also in contention is Decelarator, who comes out of Wayne Lukas’ system. She’s sitting at 9/2, but I expect a bit of a rise before post time. Camille’s Appeal garners some interest at 5/1, but I’m expecting her to be closer to 8 once we get out of the gate.
My selection for the 2009 Adirondack Stakes at Saratoga is #1 Dashing Debby.
