Silken Dreams off monster win

Maiden races for Indiana-bred 2-year-olds were a staple of Hoosier Park's racing programs throughout September, and many of the winners of those races will congregate in a pair of stakes this weekend. The most impressive filly maiden winner during the month, Silken Dreams, is the likely favorite Saturday in the $40,000 City of Anderson Stakes at 5 1/2 furlongs.

Silken Dream's nine-length win Sept. 2 was not nearly as shocking as her 18-1 odds would suggest. A little pedigree research would have unearthed valuable information - two of Silken Dream's three full siblings also won at first asking, including Oro's Sugar, a filly who went on to be stakes-placed.

Silken Dreams's 55 Beyer Speed Figure is the best in the field, her five published works since her victory have been outstanding, and trainer David Norris is winning at a 35-percent clip at Hoosier. There is clearly much to like about Silken Dreams.

Few horses are invincible, however, and many bettors will be inclined to shop around. One filly who shouldn't escape notice is Amature's Prize, who defeated open company in her debut at Mountaineer Park and later finished third in an open first-level allowance. The class drop undoubtedly helps her, as would a fast, contested pace.

Brean Can, a distant third to Silken Dreams first out, returned on eight days' rest to win her maiden, earning a 49 Beyer. She defeated two next-out winners in the process and may improve Saturday.