In her first start since her victory in Monmouth Park’s Blue Sparkler Stakes last July 12, ROJA went off as the 4/5 favorite in an optional allowance at Churchill Downs this afternoon. And she ran like one.

Nine older fillies & mares went postward for the 5-furlong dash on the turf, with Roja having the services of Irad Ortiz, Jr. Roja got the jump as soon as the gates opened and never relinquished her lead, hitting the wire a length ahead of runner-up Fancy Caber Neigh (who appeared to be 1-1/2 times Roja’s size, by the way…)

Now 4, Roja was bred in Kentucky by C. Kidder. By Breeders’ Cup winner Karakontie (JPN) out of stakes placed Redmeansgo (by Red Ransom), she is owned by Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners and Madaket Stables LLC. She now has three wins from six career starts. Cheers to all on this Derby Week score!