Alysheba Stakes start of Churchill Downs-centric campaign for Rich Strike
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Rich Strike, unraced since finishing last of six in the Grade 1 Clark here in late November, had his final work toward his 4-year-old debut when he breezed a half-mile in 47.80 seconds well before dawn Tuesday.
Rich Strike went winless in five starts following the Derby last year. Owner Rick Dawson and trainer Eric Reed already have tentatively plotted out a series of races for the Keen Ice colt this year, starting with the Grade 2 Alysheba on the Kentucky Oaks card next Friday.
Shipping in from trainer Eric Reed’s Mercury Farm, Rich Strike was first on the track when he worked shortly after the 5:15 a.m. opening. Everything went according to plan, with the colt riding back on eastbound Interstate 64 not too long after he cooled out.
“We’re coming back with him Sunday,” said Reed. “I’m really happy with him. We’re really looking forward to a big year.”
The 1 1/16-mile Alysheba “might be a touch short for him,” added Reed, “but if there’s enough pace up front, he’ll be picking them off.”
The Stephen Foster in July and the Lukas Classic in September, both 1 1/8-mile races at Churchill, also are part of the 2023 plan.
“This is his track,” said Reed.
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