Constellation lives up to price tag in debut

SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. – Constellation sure has the look of a rising star after her 4 1/2-length debut win here Sunday. Showing tactical speed from the gate, Constellation stalked a pacesetter, took over when asked, and drew clear for a relatively easy victory.

Constellation, an $800,000 2-year-old purchase at the Ocala Breeders’ Sales Co.’s March auction, covered 5 1/2 furlongs in 1:04.65 and earned a 75 Beyer Speed Figure.

“She’s got a great temperament and does everything right,” trainer Steve Asmussen said.

Asmussen said Alex Solis II and Jason Litt purchased Constellation for Larry, Nanci, and Jaime Roth.

“She went to April Mayberry’s farm from there and came in very professional,” he said.

Asmussen on Monday said Constellation “looked good, but there’s discussions to be had” on whether to run her back in the Grade 1 Spinaway on Sept. 5.

Asmussen did make a lineup change for this Saturday’s Grade 2 Adirondack Stakes. He will run Just Wicked, a maiden winner here July 24, rather than Taxable, a maiden winner at Churchill at the end of June.