Asmussen eyes stakes for maiden winners

SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. – In Lyrical Lady and Nitrous, trainer Steve Asmussen sent out two good-looking maiden-winning 2-year-olds in the first two days of the meet. Both are likely headed to a stakes race later in this Saratoga season.

Lyrical Lady, who won her debut by 5 3/4 lengths on Friday’s opening day card, could wheel back in the Grade 2, $200,000 Adirondack at 6 1/2 furlongs on Aug. 11.

Asmussen said he prefers the Adirondack to waiting for the Grade 1 Spinaway because he doesn’t believe the success rate is high in the seven-furlong Spinaway for fillies with just one start under their belt.

“Seven-eighths at Saratoga is pretty trying with her obvious style,” said Asmussen, referring to Lyrical Lady’s front-running style. “We’ll try to do what’s best for a very talented filly.”

Lyrical Lady ran 5 1/2 furlongs in 1:04.25 and earned a 75 Beyer Speed Figure.

Asmussen said he may be willing to give Nitrous a try in the Grade 1 Hopeful on Sept. 3 following his 3 1/4-length victory on Saturday. That was his second start. He ran 5 1/2 furlongs in 1:03.70 and earned a 75 Beyer Speed Figure.

“He’s a runner,” Asmussen said. “He’s pretty well bred and fast. Good combination.”