Chiefswood Stable Celebrates as Waskesiu Triumphs in Grade 3 Florida Oaks

Ontario-bred filly secures $200,000 turf race victory amidst tote crash disrupting Tampa Bay Derby.

In an eventful day at Tampa Bay Downs, overshadowed by unforeseen events, Canadian racing enthusiasts witnessed a thrilling triumph by three-year-old filly Waskesiu (American Pharoah) in the Grade 3 Florida Oaks on the turf. Proudly owned and bred by Robert and Mark Krembil’s Chiefswood Stable of Nobleton, ON, Waskesiu, named after a Saskatchewan hamlet meaning ‘red deer’ in Cree, clinched a one-length win in the 1 1/16 mile race.

Skilfully ridden by Junior Alvarado, Waskesiu, initially positioned fourth behind the race leaders, tactically manoeuvred to secure victory over Style Points in 1:42.04. Despite being the 5-to-2 favourite, odds initially set at 8-to-1 were disregarded by astute bettors.

Regrettably, Tampa Bay Downs faced technical issues, including a tote crash coinciding with Waskesiu’s triumph, causing delays in payoffs for the Florida Oaks and resulting in the Grade 3 Tampa Bay Derby commencing 30 minutes late without wagering. The final race of the day had to be cancelled.

Under the tutelage of esteemed American trainer Bill Mott, Waskesiu, following a commendable third-place finish in the Grade 3 Ginger Brew stakes, showcased her prowess by securing victory at Aqueduct in her latest start, triumphing by 4 1/2 lengths.

In a post-race interview with Mott, he expressed his pride in Waskesiu’s performance, attributing her success to meticulous planning and Alvarado’s exceptional riding skills. Despite her current absence from Canadian races, Waskesiu emerges as a strong contender for the upcoming Woodbine Oaks in July and the King’s Plate in August, both set to take place on Tapeta surfaces.

Sired by Triple Crown champion American Pharoah, Waskesiu, the fourth offspring of Finn’s Girl, exhibits remarkable potential. Finn’s Girl, purchased for $600,000 at the 2014 Keeneland September sale, boasts a notable lineage tracing back to Alidiva (Ire), a distinguished broodmare producing multiple Grade/Group I winners. Finn’s Girl's recent offspring include Collective Force, Macool’s Girl, Finn’s Moment, and a promising Justify filly born on Feb. 24.