Explore the nine contenders for the Grade 1 Woody Stephens Stakes, showcasing their stats and potential in this thrilling race.
The Grade 1 Woody Stephens Stakes is among the marquee events on Belmont Stakes Day, a highlight in the horse racing calendar known for its competitive spirit and thrilling races. Set to take place on June 6, 2026, this seven-furlong dash promises a display of speed and skill from talented three-year-olds aiming for a share of the $500,000 purse. With an expected post time at 4:52 PM Eastern, the race is drawing considerable attention from the betting public, eager to analyze the nine entries vying for victory.
The stakes are high, both literally and figuratively, as the field includes multiple contenders with impressive resumes. Below, we examine each entry's credentials and potential in this prestigious race.
Trainer: Bill Mott
Jockey: Junior Alvarado
Odds: 8-1
With two wins in three lifetime starts, Gilded Bandit enters this race with momentum, having recently secured a victory in an allowance race on the Kentucky Derby undercard. His sire, Charlatan, was known for speed, setting expectations for his progeny. Although this will be Gilded Bandit's first appearance in Stakes company, his stalking style could help him make a significant impact in the final stretch.
Trainer: Steve Asmussen
Jockey: John Velazquez
Odds: 8-1
Obliteration has been a consistent performer, with four wins and four second-place finishes across nine starts. He was victorious in the Chick Lang Stakes on the Preakness undercard, showcasing his ability to rally late after sitting off the pace. With experienced jockey John Velazquez aboard, he could once again pounce in the final moments of the race.
Trainer: George Weaver
Jockey: Irad Ortiz Jr.
Odds: 10-1
Famed for his early speed, Six Speed took the lead in the Kentucky Derby but faded to finish thirteenth. Despite this misstep, he has placed in the top three in five of six lifetime starts. His gate-to-wire potential makes him a contender to watch, although the stiff trillion/">valuation-in-fast-tracked-shanghai-ipo/">competition in this field could make it challenging for him to hold the lead for the entire trip.
Trainer: Steve Asmussen
Jockey: Ricardo Santana Jr.
Odds: 12-1
Stradale, having notched two wins and two runner-up finishes in six lifetime starts, has shown versatility and resilience. His lineage, hailing from the speedy Yaupon, supports expectations for an ambitious run. Stradale’s pace-stalking style typically suits seven-furlong races, but the strength of the competition will be a critical factor in his finish.
Trainer: Saffie Joseph Jr.
Jockey: Flavien Prat
Odds: 6-1
With a stellar record of four wins in five attempts, including two victories at this distance, Solitude Dude is an early favorite among bettors. Known for blistering starts, he often takes the lead effortlessly. However, he will need to adapt if he cannot maintain the early advantage, making his post position pivotal for race strategy.
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Jockey: Florent Geroux
Odds: 9-5
Undefeated in three starts, Crude Velocity's latest triumph came in the Pat Day Mile on Kentucky Derby day, displaying an impressive late surge. His training by Bob Baffert, who frequently emerges victorious in high-stakes races, positions him as a leading contender in this event. He is our top pick, as his strong performance in previous races indicates he has what it takes to claim victory.
Trainer: Cherie DeVaux
Jockey: Jose Ortiz
Odds: 3-1
With an impressive two wins and one second-place finish out of three starts, Englishman is making a name for himself. His last race, where he set a solid pace in the Pat Day Mile, adds to his credentialed profile. He will need to harness his early speed effectively to remain competitive against the adept field.
Trainer: Doug O’Neill
Jockey: Antonio Fresu
Odds: 10-1
Civil Liberty has demonstrated a solid track record with four top-three finishes in five career starts. His lone victory at this distance came at Keeneland, further solidifying his standing in this field. Known for his unexpected ability to pull off upsets, Civil Liberty is a competitive force in the midst of talented horses.
Trainer: Brittany Russell
Jockey: Manny Franco
Odds: 12-1
Despite a fading tenth place finish in the Preakness, Taj Mahal previously enjoyed three consecutive wins, showcasing an impressive early speed profile. His advantageous outside post could allow him to set the pace and dictate early fractions in the race. Yet, sustaining that momentum throughout a seven-furlong race against such fierce competitors remains a question.
The Grade 1 Woody Stephens Stakes epitomizes the competitive spirit of horse racing, featuring a blend of seasoned pros and rising stars among the entries. Crude Velocity stands out as a favorite based on his recent performance, while Solitude Dude and Obliteration are also worthy of attention as potential victors. The dynamic nature of racing guarantees that anything can happen on race day, and the performances of each contender will be crucial in determining the outcome.
As the race draws near, fans and analysts alike will keenly observe not just the credentials but the racing strategies employed by each trainer and rider. Factors like post positions, weather conditions, and track conditions may significantly sway the race's outcome. Ultimately, the Woody Stephens Stakes promises an electrifying contest that will further illuminate the trajectories of these impressive equine athletes.
The Woody Stephens Stakes is a prestigious Grade 1 race held during Belmont Stakes Day, showcasing the speed and talent of three-year-old racehorses, with a purse of $500,000.
Key contenders include Crude Velocity, Solitude Dude, and Obliteration, each with impressive records leading into the race.
Factors influencing the race may include post positions, jockeying strategies, track conditions, and the horses’ past performances leading up to the race.