Serengeti Empress works fast, scopes clean, headed to Kentucky Oaks

LOUISVILLE, Ky. - Serengeti Empress passed two important tests Tuesday morning at Churchill Downs, working a sharp five furlongs in 58.09, then scoping cleanly, once returning to the barn, according to her trainer, Tom Amoss. As a result, she will now definitely be pointed for the Kentucky Oaks on May 3.

Serengeti Empress, who bled during the running of the Fair Grounds Oaks in her most recent start, spent plenty of time warming up prior to her work, which took place during the special 15-minute window reserved daily at 7:30 a.m. for Derby and Oaks contenders. Serengeti Empress jogged two miles, one in each direction, before breaking off several lengths behind her older stablemate Haynesfest at the five-furlong pole.

With jockey Tyler Gaffalione aboard, Serengeti Empress remained about two lengths behind her target while taking some dirt around the bend through an opening three-eighths in 34.70. She eased out to draw on even terms with her mate at the stop of the stretch, then readily drew well clear to the wire while going easily throughout. She then galloped out with good energy - six furlongs in 1:11.52 - before easing up after seven panels in 1:26.19.

Amoss has said all along he would not run Serengeti Empress in the Oaks if she was "not at her best." But following Tuesday's work and the clean report from his veterinarian upon scoping the filly, he all but commited her to the race as long as all continues to go well for her between now and next Friday.