Hold onto your hats, racing fans, because the Untapable Stakes at Fair Grounds just delivered a heart-pounding showdown that left everyone on the edge of their seats! In a thrilling display of late-race heroics, Hit Parade, the talented filly sired by Street Sense, snatched victory from the jaws of defeat, securing 10 crucial points on the 'Road to the Kentucky Oaks.' But here's where it gets controversial—was it sheer skill, or did the competition simply falter at the finish line? Let’s dive into the details and let you decide.
On a crisp December evening, Hit Parade, a homebred by Gary and Mary West, showcased her versatility after a modest debut on the grass at Horseshoe Indy. She quickly found her stride, scoring a two-length victory in a maiden claimer at Churchill Downs before dominating a starter allowance over the same course. And this is the part most people miss—her ability to adapt to different surfaces and distances has been nothing short of remarkable.
In the Untapable Stakes, Hit Parade, piloted by jockey Luis Saez, executed a textbook race. Breaking smoothly, she conserved energy along the rail while Pashmina set the early pace. As the field rounded the far turn, Hit Parade shifted outward, unleashing a powerful surge that set up a dramatic duel with Luv Your Neighbor. The final furlong was a battle of wills, with Hit Parade gaining the upper hand in the shadow of the wire. Saez praised her performance, noting, 'She was a little green when we went for the lead but quickly got going straight again and fought hard for the win.'
But let’s not forget the pedigree that backs this rising star. Hit Parade’s dam, Wedding Band, has already produced a yearling half-brother by Frosted and a weanling half-brother by Essential Quality. Boldly put, this family tree is stacked with potential, and Hit Parade is just the latest branch to bear fruit. Her extended female family includes the legendary Curlin, a dual Horse of the Year and generational sire, adding even more luster to her lineage.
The final time of 1:42.97 for the 1 mile and 70 yards race cemented Hit Parade’s status as a serious contender for the Kentucky Oaks. Luv Your Neighbor and Pashmina, both daughters of Constitution, rounded out the trifecta, proving that this race was no walk in the park.
But here’s the burning question: Can Hit Parade sustain this momentum and make a serious run at the Oaks? Or will the competition prove too fierce? Share your thoughts in the comments—we want to hear from you! Whether you’re Team Hit Parade or rooting for another contender, one thing’s for sure: this filly has earned her spot in the spotlight, and we can’t wait to see what she does next.
