In an exhilarating display of stamina and determination, Power Squeeze triumphed in Grade 1, $600,000 Alabama Stakes at Saratoga, edging out the favourite, Candied, by a head. The 3-year-old filly, trained by Jorge Delgado, showcased her ability to navigate the 1 1/4-mile distance after making a strategic late move alongside her rivals.
The race unfolded with Chatalas, coming off a victory in the Indiana Oaks, sprinting to an early lead, setting a comfortable pace with fractions of 23.31, 47.06, 1:11.42, and 1:37.64. While she dominated the front, Power Squeeze, along with Candied and Just Basking, were positioned at the back, preparing for their final pushes.
As the race progressed into the last turn, Candied initiated her move, quickly gaining ground and setting the stage for a fierce duel in the closing strides. Power Squeeze, expertly ridden by Javier Castellano, maintained her position right behind Candied, ready to pounce as they approached the finish line. Just Basking followed, also making her late charge but finishing slightly behind the leaders.
Castellano expressed satisfaction with the race dynamics, emphasising the importance of pacing and strategy. “I didn’t want to hook up with speed," he noted. "I wanted to take my time and develop the horse through the race." His calculated ride paid off, as Power Squeeze demonstrated her resilience and tactical prowess.
Delgado, visibly emotional after the victory, praised the filly’s performance and the excitement of the finish, stating, “I want to watch the replay a thousand times and enjoy it. I never felt like a winner until the wire.” The win not only solidified Power Squeeze’s status but also marked her second consecutive stakes victory, elevating her career earnings to $900,450.
Power Squeeze, purchased for $30,000 as a 2-year-old, fulfilled the expectations set by her connections regarding her potential for longer distances, being by Union Rags and displaying physical attributes suited for endurance racing. Her victory added to her emerging legacy as a formidable competitor in her division, setting the stage for future endeavours on the racetrack.