Stablemates Turner’s Charm and Raiding Party continued their remarkably similar trajectories with a thrilling battle to the wire in a dramatic first level allowance at Churchill Downs.
The two talented fillies have mirrored each other every step of the way. Both broke their maidens at Keeneland last October — on the very same day — before enjoying some downtime over the winter. Their seasonal debuts also came together in this competitive allowance event at Churchill Downs, and once again they proved incredibly difficult to separate.
With Raiding Party breaking from post seven and Turner’s Charm drawn in ten, both fillies settled comfortably in the early stages. Raiding Party dropped in towards the rear in third last, while Turner’s Charm settled just behind the field but remained in touch throughout.
As the field approached the home turn and the pace began to quicken, both fillies made eye-catching moves on the wide outside, with Raiding Party positioned just inside Turner’s Charm. What followed was a gripping stretch duel between the stablemates as neither filly was willing to give in.
Inside the eighth pole, the pair brushed and bumped as they battled stride for stride to the wire, with Turner’s Charm getting her head in front at the perfect moment. However, the drama was far from over as the result was briefly put on hold pending a steward’s enquiry into the stretch incident.
After review, the stewards allowed the original placings to stand, confirming Turner’s Charm as the winner.
Both fillies showcased tremendous determination, strength, and class in what was an exciting performance from two highly promising prospects for the team. On this occasion, it was Turner’s Charm’s turn to shine under a polished ride from Ben Curtis.
Congratulations to owners Ike and Dawn Thrash on the victory.
