Allowance win propels Violet Blue into stakes

ELMONT, N.Y. – Violet Blue earned an opportunity to run in a stakes race next time out with a powerful 4 1/4-length victory in a first-level allowance race at Belmont on Wednesday.

In her first start since November, Violet Blue rallied from last with an eye-catching move around the turn before pulling away in the stretch to win handily while covering 1 1/4 miles in 2:00.85. She earned a Beyer Speed Figure of 90.

Trainer Jimmy Toner credited Karl Keegan with preparing Violet Blue so well during the winter before sending her to Toner about a month ago.

“She came up in good order, looked great, matured over the winter,” Toner said. “Filled out well and got big and strong. She trained into the race good, she looked good, and performed well.”

Toner said the $100,000 River Memories at 1 1/2 miles here July 8 and the Grade 3, $200,000 Waya Stakes on Aug. 4 at Saratoga would be considered for Violet Blue.