Fair Grounds, January 1, 2025 – Araratta, a three-year-old gray or roan filly by Munnings out of Saratoga Belle (by The Factor), dazzled in her career debut by winning the fourth race, a Maiden Special Weight for Louisiana-bred fillies. Guided by jockey Edgar Morales, the Highlander Training Center-owned filly crossed the finish line first, earning a decisive 3/4-length victory.
Breaking as a 7-2 choice, Araratta settled off the pace early, tracking in fourth down the backstretch behind a moderate tempo. With a patient yet strategic ride by Morales, she angled out into the three-path entering the stretch. Showing impressive determination, she reeled in the pacesetter, Thundering Desire, to seize control. Araratta then held off the late-closing Swamp Queen to stop the clock in 1:43.14 over the turf course rated “good.” Her performance earned her an Equibase Speed Figure of 73.
This victory marked an auspicious start for Araratta, who was bred in Louisiana by Warran J. Harang and trained by Thomas M. Amoss. She was purchased as a yearling for $130,000 at the Keeneland September Sale by Larry Hirsch through the Elm Tree Farm consignment. Importantly, this acquisition was orchestrated by Clark Shepherd of Shepherd Equine Advisers, who acted as agent for Hirsch. Shepherd’s strategic eye for quality bloodstock and his expertise in assembling winning portfolios played a pivotal role in identifying Araratta’s potential.
With this debut win, Araratta has already banked $34,800, adding to her burgeoning reputation as one to watch on the Louisiana racing circuit. Her pedigree, highlighted by the influence of Munnings and the damline of The Factor, sets her up for further success both on the track and potentially as a future broodmare.
Araratta’s connections are undoubtedly thrilled with her promising start. With strong management, she appears poised to make her mark on the 2025 racing calendar. Racing fans should keep an eye on this rising star as she looks to build on her early momentum.
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