Gold Medal Dancer puts in big work

HOT SPRINGS, Ark. – Gold Medal Dancer, the winner of the Grade 2, $294,000 Azeri in her last start March 14, had a significant work at Oaklawn on Saturday, breezing five furlongs by herself in a bullet 59.20 seconds. She has emerged from the work in good order and remains under consideration for the Grade 1, $600,000 Apple Blossom Handicap at Oaklawn on April 10, according to trainer Donnie Von Hemel.

“She’ll most likely run in the Apple Blossom, but we’ll see what the noms are, what the weights are,” Von Hemel said Monday.

Gold Medal Dancer is also eligible for the Doubledogdare at Keeneland and the La Troienne at Churchill Downs. The breeze Saturday was a strong one, with Oaklawn head clocker Jim Hamilton getting Gold Medal Dancer’s final quarter in 23.40 seconds and galloping out six furlongs in 1:12.20. The move came under jockey Luis Quinonez.

“I was very pleased with her work,” Von Hemel said. “She finished very well and galloped out strong.”

Gold Medal Dancer went over $500,000 in earnings in the Azeri while putting up a career-high Beyer Speed Figure of 97. She races for her breeder, Pin Oak Stable.