Aqueduct, November 9, 2024 — Vehemente, a chestnut filly by Vekoma out of Resoundingly (by Stormy Atlantic), showcased her talent in Saturday’s Maiden Claiming event at Aqueduct, decisively taking home the $24,750 winner’s share of the $45,000 purse.
Piloted by top jockey Jose L. Ortiz, the New York-bred 2-year-old filly demonstrated both speed and composure, securing her first career victory in just her third lifetime start.
Race Recap for Vehemente
Breaking sharply from post position 10, Vehemente settled into a comfortable position just behind the early leaders while racing four wide.
As the field approached the quarter pole, Ortiz guided her to the outside, where she made a decisive move to seize control. Vehemente widened her lead with every stride, cruising down the stretch and crossing the wire a commanding 10 ¾ lengths ahead of her nearest rival.
She stopped the clock at 1:11.57 for six furlongs on a fast dirt track, earning a solid Equibase Speed Figure of 75.
Consistent Progress
This victory marks a significant milestone for Vehemente, who showed promise in her previous starts but had yet to find the winner’s circle.
After a close second-place finish in her debut at Saratoga on July 17, 2024, and a challenging sixth-place effort in a Maiden Special Weight on August 22, she capitalized on the class drop in this maiden claiming race. Her 2024 record now stands at 3 starts with 1 win and 1 second, bringing her total career earnings to $43,650.
Pedigree and Connections
Bred by Hibiscus Stables, Vehemente was acquired by International Equine for $40,000 at the Fasig-Tipton New York Mixed Sale, consigned by Hibiscus Sales.
The purchase was managed by Clark Shepherd of Shepherd Equine Advisers, acting as agent for International Equine. Under the care of trainer Joe Sharp, Vehemente continues to develop, showing great promise with each outing.
Her pedigree reflects a blend of speed and stamina, with her sire Vekoma known for his versatility and her dam Resoundingly bringing resilience through the Stormy Atlantic bloodline.
Looking Ahead for Vehemente
With this dominant maiden win, the future looks bright for Vehemente.
Her connections are optimistic that she will continue to improve with experience and may target more competitive allowance or state-bred stakes races in the upcoming months. As the year draws to a close, Vehemente’s breakthrough performance at Aqueduct has set a strong foundation for her budding racing career.
Keep an eye on this talented filly as she aims to build on her recent success and climb the ranks in New York-bred racing under the guidance of her skilled team.
