Time to Dazzle Secures Second Consecutive Franklin Stakes Victory in Thrilling Finish
In a gripping display of equestrian prowess at Keeneland, Time to Dazzle, with jockey Irad Ortiz Jr. aboard, clinched an exhilarating victory in the Grade 2, $400,000 Franklin Stakes. This hard-fought triumph saw her outpace Kehoe Beach by a mere nose, marking her second consecutive win in this prestigious 5 1/2-furlong turf sprint designed for fillies and mares. The race unfolded with strategic maneuvers and a thrilling final stretch, captivating onlookers and reinforcing Time to Dazzle's dominance on the turf.
The highly anticipated Franklin Stakes, held at Keeneland, showcased a competitive field, but it was Time to Dazzle who emerged victorious for the second year running. Her 2026 win was particularly notable as it came against Kehoe Beach, ridden by José Ortiz, who had piloted Time to Dazzle to her 2025 victory. This year, the Ortiz brothers found themselves in a sibling rivalry on the track, culminating in a photo finish that favored Irad.
The race began with Itzel, a longshot, taking an early lead, setting a swift pace. Kehoe Beach, under the guidance of trainer Wesley Ward, maintained a close second position. Meanwhile, Time to Dazzle, trained by Mark Casse, adopted a more patient strategy, trailing in sixth place for much of the initial phase. As the race progressed and the horses rounded into the homestretch, Irad Ortiz Jr. expertly guided Time to Dazzle wide, initiating a powerful surge from the outer lane. This decisive move allowed her to gradually close the gap on the frontrunners.
In the final moments of the race, Kehoe Beach had moved past Itzel, appearing poised for victory. However, Time to Dazzle's late burst of speed was undeniable. Despite being several lengths behind at the stretch call, she unleashed a remarkable kick, reeling in Kehoe Beach in the very last stride to secure the win by the narrowest of margins. The soft ground conditions at Keeneland added an extra layer of challenge, making Time to Dazzle's powerful finish even more impressive. Owner Tracy Farmer expressed immense satisfaction, attributing the mare's strong performance partly to her comfort and familiarity with the Keeneland environment.
The outcome was a testament to both the mare's exceptional talent and Irad Ortiz Jr.'s skillful riding. Time to Dazzle completed the 5 1/2 furlongs in 1:04.52, rewarding her backers with a significant payout. Kehoe Beach's jockey, José Ortiz, acknowledged his mount's strong effort, noting the almost perfect trip but ultimately falling short in a head bob. Itzel bravely held on for third place, just over a length behind the winner, while other contenders like Movin' On Up, Usha, Pondering, and Ag Bullet finished further back in the field.