Alicia Wincze is the turf writer for the Lexington Herald-Leader. She started riding at age 8 and was a four-year member of the Pace University equestrian team.
Informed Decision tops Ventura in Filly and Mare Sprint
Posted by Alicia Wincze on November 6, 2009
The $1 million Filly and Mare Sprint lived up to its billing as Informed Decision held off defending race winner Ventura to capture the seven-furlong test by 1 1/4 lengths for her third Grade I win in the year, liking locking up the championship for top female sprinter.
Owned by George Strawbridge, Informed Decision rated in second just behind longshot pacesetter Free Flying Soul through fractions of :23.23 and :45.95 under jockey Julien Leparoux. The four-year-old daughter of Monarchos moved up around the turn and had Free Flying Soul put away at the head of the lane, only to see Ventura launch her bid down the middle of the track.
Unlike a year ago, however, Ventura’s late kick was only good enough for second this time as Informed Decision dug in to hit the wire in 1:21.66.
The win gives trainer Jonathan Sheppard his second career Breeders’ Cup win having saddled Forever Together to victory in the Filly and Mare Turf last year.
Free Flying Soul held for third.
