NEW ORLEANS – Bella Ballerina continued her undefeated streak, overcoming a determined challenge from Luv Your Neighbor to win the GII Fasig-Tipton Rachel Alexandra Stakes at Fair Grounds. The victory secures Bella Ballerina’s position as a leading contender for the Kentucky Oaks and earns her 50 points on the Road to the Kentucky Oaks.
Trained by Godolphin, Bella Ballerina, a 3-year-old filly by Street Sense, demonstrated both speed and resilience in the race. The filly’s performance echoes the success of previous Godolphin runners, Good Cheer and Pretty Mischievous, who both used the Rachel Alexandra as a stepping stone to Kentucky Oaks contention.
Bella Ballerina, who earned ‘Rising Star’ honors after an impressive debut at Keeneland in October, followed up with a win in the GII Golden Rod Stakes at Churchill Downs in November. She broke well from the center of the gate and quickly established a leading position, despite pressure from Luv Your Neighbor, who entered the race with 15 Kentucky Oaks qualifying points.
Under the guidance of jockey Tyler Gaffalione – who also piloted Pretty Mischievous to victory in the 2023 Kentucky Oaks – Bella Ballerina set fractions of :23.40 and 46.98. Luv Your Neighbor remained closely positioned throughout the race, applying consistent pressure to the leader. Gaffalione maintained a tight hold on Bella Ballerina, conserving energy for a potential late challenge.
The race ultimately came down to a thrilling stretch drive, with Bella Ballerina and Luv Your Neighbor battling stride for stride. Bella Ballerina dug in and responded to Gaffalione’s urging, ultimately prevailing in a hard-fought finish. The final margin of victory was not immediately available, but the race was described as a test of both stamina and determination.
Bella Ballerina’s victory is particularly significant given her lineage. She is a half-sister to Pretty Mischievous, the 2023 Kentucky Oaks winner, further solidifying Godolphin’s success in developing top-tier fillies. The Rachel Alexandra Stakes win marks another key milestone in Bella Ballerina’s promising career.
The Fasig-Tipton Rachel Alexandra Stakes is the first 50-point race on the Road to the Kentucky Oaks, making it a crucial event for horses aiming to qualify for the prestigious race. Bella Ballerina’s win significantly boosts her chances of securing a spot in the starting gate at Churchill Downs on the first Friday in May.
The performance of Luv Your Neighbor, despite finishing second, also deserves recognition. The filly’s consistent performance throughout the season has established her as a legitimate Kentucky Oaks contender, and she remains well-positioned to accumulate additional points in upcoming races.
Godolphin’s success in utilizing the Fair Grounds meet as a preparation ground for the Kentucky Oaks is becoming a notable trend. With Bella Ballerina following in the footsteps of Good Cheer and Pretty Mischievous, the stable has demonstrated a clear strategy for developing and showcasing their talented fillies.
The Rachel Alexandra Stakes result sets the stage for an exciting continuation of the Road to the Kentucky Oaks. Bella Ballerina’s victory has undoubtedly raised the stakes and intensified the competition among the leading contenders. Fans and horse racing enthusiasts will be closely watching Bella Ballerina’s progress as she prepares for the challenges that lie ahead.
Bella Ballerina returned $3.80 to win, according to reports.
