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Mark Your Calendar for March 16th

posted by Justin Dew on February 17, 2008 Tags: , , ,
Julien Leparoux Guides Pure Clan (photo by: Reed Palmer/CDI)Julien Leparoux Guides Pure Clan (photo by: Reed Palmer/CDI)

In the blue corner, we have the undefeated Pure Clan, recently purchased by IEAH Stables and trained by Bob Holthus.

In the red corner, we have Eight Belles, winner of her last two starts by a combined 28 ½ lengths.

The ring is Oaklawn Park, host of the Honeybee Stakes on March 16th.

Now I’m getting tired of the boxing analogies. I got carried away. Sorry.

But seriously folks, this should be one heck of a battle next month, and it’s something to which we can all look forward. After winning today’s split Martha Washington Stakes as the odds-on favorite by a wider margin than any other horses in the history of Oaklawn Park stakes racing, Eight Belles has to be considered a major force in the filly division. And her sights are set on the Kentucky Oaks.

Pure Clan, off since November, will make her sophomore debut in the colors of a new barn after being sold recently. Visually, Pure Clan has looked most impressive. If you’re a speed figures follower, then she may have a thing or two to prove. But I like her. And this race will be one I will not miss.

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Mike barker

02/19/2008 12:02 pm

I agree wow what a race i love eight belles running style..I want to see her step up in stakes company it doesnt look to be of a problem..

derbyme

03/07/2008 11:48 am

Eight Belles looks like an absolute monster... in half her races. Couldn't be more confused by some of her non-descript races, but when she laces up the running shoes she is breath taking. Reminds me of a filly I fell in love with a few years back... Remember Sis City? She also had the habit of running off and hiding about half the time, and leave you scratching your head the other half. Nevertheless, Eight Belles is one exciting filly. Don't ask for a price though, latest update had her at 11-1 and still taking money. Hopefully IB and PS run off in the LA Oaks. Also... Backseat Rythm at 3 digits to one off a much better than it looked return on the turf??