Casse's Saratoga Stars: Nitrogen and Counting Stars Shine
In the lead-up to significant equestrian events, two prominent Grade 1-winning fillies from the stable of veteran trainer Mark Casse, namely Nitrogen and Counting Stars, recently completed impressive half-mile workouts at Saratoga. These training sessions underscore their advanced preparation for upcoming top-tier races, generating considerable anticipation within the racing community for their performances at the renowned Saratoga track.
Nitrogen, a four-year-old bred by D.J. Stable, is poised for a challenging and highly anticipated entry into the Grade 1, $1 million Whitney Stakes. Scheduled for August 8, this nine-furlong race is open to horses aged three and up and offers a coveted direct entry into the Breeders' Cup Classic later in October. This will mark Nitrogen's third workout since her commanding 12 3/4-length triumph in the Ogden Phipps (G1) on June 6. Her recent solo half-mile breeze was clocked at 48.6 seconds, with trainer Casse noting, "Nitrogen just had a nice, easy breeze and I thought she went good. We're going to let her do a little more next week." The reigning champion three-year-old filly had a stellar sophomore season, securing local graded victories in the Wonder Again (G3), where she dominated by 17 lengths on a sloppy track, and the 10-furlong Alabama (G1). She also achieved runner-up positions against older competitors in the Spinster (G1) and the Breeders' Cup Distaff, capping a remarkable year. Notably, she narrowly missed additional Grade 1 wins on both turf and dirt, falling just short against Fionn in the previous year's Belmont Oaks.
Counting Stars, a promising sophomore owned by West Point Thoroughbreds, recently clinched her inaugural top-level victory on June 5, claiming the Acorn Stakes by 3 3/4 lengths over Kentucky Oaks (G1) victor Always a Runner. This bay filly by Honor A.P. is now setting her sights on the Grade 1, $500,000 Coaching Club American Oaks, a nine-furlong event slated for July 25. Her recent solo half-mile workout was recorded at a swift 48.0 seconds. Casse commented on her current condition, stating, "We're at the point where we're not worried too much about fitness anymore. She's in a happy place, and I thought this morning she was magnificent. She continues to amaze me. Nitrogen has already amazed me, but Counting Stars is really starting to act like she's a serious horse." Regarding future plans beyond the Coaching Club American Oaks, Casse wisely noted, "let's get through this one first," indicating a focus on immediate objectives.
As the Saratoga racing season progresses, the performances of Nitrogen and Counting Stars are highly anticipated by fans and experts alike. Both fillies exhibit remarkable talent and dedication, promising exciting competition in their respective engagements. Their recent workouts reflect not only their physical prowess but also the strategic preparations orchestrated by their esteemed trainer, setting the stage for potentially memorable victories.