Athens Queen by a neck in Astoria Stakes

ELMONT, N.Y. – Entering the stretch of the $150,000 Astoria Stakes, things weren't quite going according to plan for the Wesley Ward-trained Wonder Stone, who was fading on the lead. But the trainer, known for his prowess with juveniles, had another entrant in the race, and things worked out perfectly for Athens Queen, who rallied for the upset victory Thursday at Belmont Park.

"They went a little quick up front," Ward said. "Our plan with [Wonder Stone] was to shoot out there, and hopefully she could sustain. But unfortunately, that didn't materialize, but it set up for this filly."

Wonder Stone was away fastest from her inside post in the Astoria, but the favored Tijori almost immediately moved to press her, sitting on her flank through opening splits of 22.06 seconds for the quarter and 45.53 for the half-mile. The swift pace began to take its toll around the far turn. Lady Apple began to sneak through on the inside, and Athens Queen ($24.40), who was away from the outside post under Albin Jimenez, ranged wide into the stretch to reach contention.

Lady Apple briefly gained the lead in midstretch, but Athens Queen continued to eat into the margin. She was a neck ahead at the wire, stopping the clock in 1:05.37 for the 5 1/2 furlongs.

Eyeinthesky rallied to be third, a half-length behind Lady Apple. It was three-quarters of a length farther back to Tijori in fourth, followed by the fading Wonder Stone and Six Pack Gal, who was never involved.

Athens Queen, by Majestic Warrior, won her debut on April 19 at Keeneland, one day after Wonder Stone had impressed in her own debut. Off that, Ward had considered Athens Queen for the renowned Royal Ascot meeting later this month in England – to which he plans to ship a formidable contingent, including European champion Lady Aurelia. But he and owner Reiley McDonald ultimately decided to stay home with Athens Queen, and it paid off.

"She has some turf talent to her but not quite what you need to go over there," Ward said. "I'm fortunate that Reiley lets me call the shots. He turned back in his top hat, and he got a nice win today."