Asmussen has Ascot possibles

A pair of 2-year-old fillies trained by Steve Asmussen who won maiden races last month at Keeneland are being recruited for Englands Royal Ascot meeting next month, according to Asmussen and officials representing the English racecourse.

Elocution and Sky Mom both won 4 1/2-furlong maiden races at Keeneland. Elocution, owned by William Heiligbrodt, finished first and Sky Mom was second in a race on April 7. Sky Mom, owned by Heather Stark, then won next time out, April 27.

Ascots Royal meeting begins on June 19. There are two group stakes exclusively for 2-year-old fillies, the Group 2 Queen Mary Stakes at five furlongs on June 20, and the Group 3 Albany Stakes at six furlongs on June 22. Both are on turf.

Were looking into the possibility of it, Asmussen said Friday from his barn at Churchill Downs. We havent decided yet.

Asked if the fillies were being seriously considered for the races, or if Asmussen and his connections were kicking tires, Asmussen replied, Kicking tires.

Were interested, he said. Curious at this stage.