Libby's Tail rides maiden win into Adirondack

SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. – When Libby’s Tail dropped back to last and fanned five wide approaching the quarter pole in her career debut at Belmont Park on July 2, her cause appeared hopeless – even to her trainer, Rudy Rodriguez.

“I didn’t think she had a chance to win that race when she was last nearing the stretch like that,” said Rodriguez. “But then she got outside, ran huge, and put them all away.”

That performance, for which Libby’s Tail earned a 77 Beyer Speed Figure, gives Rodriguez confidence that she can step right up into stakes company and be successful in Saturday’s Grade 2 Adirondack Stakes.

“I think she has a lot of class, and that race was a good education for her,” said Rodriguez. “She’s been doing well in the morning up here and is coming into the race doing very good.”

Libby’s Tail, a daughter of Tiz Wonderful, is one of six juvenile fillies entered in the 6 1/2-furlong Adirondack. The field includes Olive Branch, who finished fifth after forcing the pace in the Grade 3 Schuylerville on opening day. She was a late addition to the lineup.

“It’s back a little quick, but it’s a small field, and she’s been doing well,” said trainer Rick Violette. “We’ll take a look-see at the race and see how she’s doing over the next few days. Everything will have to be perfect for her to run.”

Silvertoni is the lone stakes winner in the field and will be favored under Joel Rosario.

Irad Ortiz Jr. will again ride Libby’s Tail, with his brother Jose aboard Olive Branch. The remainder of the lineup comprises Dial Me (Luis Saez to ride), Ever So Clever (John Velazquez), and Nonna Mela (Javier Castellano).