Alpine Princess, the Classic Empire mare, has proven herself a force to be reckoned with in the world of horse racing. Her recent victory in the Doubledogdare Stakes (G2) at Keeneland is a testament to her skill and determination. With a rail-skimming trip, she dug in gamely and hit the wire first, prevailing by a neck over the favorite, Eunomia. This win marks her second graded stakes victory, following her previous triumph in the Falls City Stakes (G3) last November at Churchill Downs.
What makes this achievement even more impressive is the horse's age and the competitive nature of the race. At 5 years old, Alpine Princess has already started 19 times, winning seven and finishing second five times. This consistency and determination have earned her the title of racing's newest millionaire, a well-deserved honor.
The race itself was a thrilling display of skill and strategy. Jockey Irad Ortiz Jr. played a crucial role in Alpine Princess' success, breaking cleanly and settling on the rail off the leader, Running Away. His patience and tactical approach allowed the horse to save ground and get through before the quarter pole, ultimately securing the win.
The victory is a testament to the training of Brad Cox, who has been instrumental in Alpine Princess' success. Cox's strategy of going up the inside proved to be the winning move, and he expressed pride in the horse's performance, noting that it took her a while to get her first graded stakes but that she now has two under her belt.
The Doubledogdare Stakes victory has also highlighted the ownership and breeding behind Alpine Princess. She is owned by Madaket Stables and Full of Run Racing II, who purchased her at the 2022 Keeneland September Yearling Sale for $190,000. Betz Thoroughbreds consigned her, and she was bred in Kentucky in partnership with DJ Stables, Peter Lamantia, and the Classic Empire Syndicate.
The race also brought attention to the performance of Eunomia, who finished second and went off as the 9-5 post-time favorite. Peignoir finished third, 6 1/2 lengths behind Eunomia, and last year's Doubledogdare Stakes winner, Gin Gin, made a move in the stretch but weakened to finish an off-the-board seventh. Gin Gin's performance raised questions about her recent form, as she had not been seen since being eased in the Breeders' Cup Distaff (G1) last year.
Overall, the Doubledogdare Stakes victory has solidified Alpine Princess' place in the racing world, showcasing her talent, consistency, and the strategic brilliance of her team. As she continues to race, her success is a testament to the hard work and dedication of her owners, breeders, and trainers, and her story is one that will continue to inspire and captivate racing enthusiasts for years to come.
