Royal Delta could either run in the Classic or the Ladies’ Classic
Last year’s 3-year-old champion filly, Royal Delta’s cause of becoming the champion was heavily aided by her impressive victory in the 2011 edition of the Grade 1 Breeders’ Cup Ladies’ Classic at Churchill Downs to cap off a wonderful year of racing.
Bought by Besilu Stables' Leon Benjamin is looking for Ladies’ Classic repeat this year, but his decision to cross enter Royal Delta in the Grade 1, $5 million Breeders’ Cup Classic at Santa Anita Park on 3 November, 2012, has make things interesting leading up to the World Championships.
Bill Mott trained 4-year-old filly was impressive winning the Ladies’ Classic last year, and will likely go at it again over a different venue this year, but Classic as a second preference wouldn’t harm anyone, but it is highly unlikely that Leon will risk ultimate glory this year again.
"He just wants to leave his options open," trainer Bill Mott said. "We're not leaning in that direction, but he said if it doesn't cost anything, why don't we do it? I told him, 'Fine, we'll cross-enter and look at it next week.'"
Bred in Kentucky by Palides Investments, Royal Delta, after a dodgy start of her 4-year-old campaign has steadied nicely, and run back into her championship form.
She is currently exiting a brilliant victory in the Grade 1 Beldame Invitational at Belmont Park going 1 1/8 miles, as she went on to defeat the in-form It’s Tricky in second and Go Unbridled in third, while under Mike Smith the duo covered the distance in 1 minute and 48.80 seconds on 29 September, 2012.
Prior to her Beldame victory, Royal Delta lost to Love and Pride in second in the Grade 1 Personal Ensign at Saratoga, also at 1 1/8 miles on 26 August.
The Empire Maker filly, out of A. P. Indy’s mare Delta Princess, Royal Delta did win back-to-back victories in the Grade 2 Fleur De Lis Stakes at Churchill Downs, and then went on to land the Grade 2 Delaware Handicap.
On 22 October, Royal Delta breezed in 59 seconds flat, which left Bill Mott thrilled.
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