Hoosier Park: Rachel Wiggles the fastest

Rachel Wiggles buckled late under pressure after leading most of the way in the Miss Indiana Stakes two weeks ago, but she should prove difficult to run down when she meets five rivals in the $45,000 Indiana Stallion Stakes at Hoosier Park.

The 5 1/2-furlong contest for 2-year-old fillies, restricted to offspring of Indiana-based stallions, attracted a modest group, with Rachel Wiggles likely to be the prohibitive favorite.

After an 11 1/2-length triumph as the favorite at Hoosier in her debut on Oct. 24, Rachel Wiggles started as an 8-1 outsider in the Miss Indiana. Her early speed and a lack of early pressure allowed Rachel Wiggles to lead until just inside the eighth pole, when she was passed by Lil Mai Tai and Ring Ring Ring. Rachel Wiggles held third by a nose, a length behind Lil Mai Tai.

There's a chance Rachel Wiggles will be rallying from slightly off the pace in the Indiana Stallion, as Fleet Image has often set faster opening quarter-mile fractions. Fleet Image, a recent maiden winner, is unlikely, however, to withstand Rachel Wiggles, who has consistently earned better Beyer Speed Figures.

Dr. Powers and Caskay's Jewel, who both finished well behind Rachel Wiggles in the Miss Indiana, would appear to have the best chance at an upset, though both would have to improve considerably.

The lone first-time starter in the field, Classic Ramona, at least has intriguing bloodlines. Her dam, Ramona's Rose, won the Miss Indiana Stakes in 2000.