Undefeated La Rascasse Scratched from CCA Oaks Due to Training Setback
The undefeated racehorse La Rascasse has been withdrawn from the upcoming Grade 1 Coaching Club American Oaks at Saratoga. Trainer Will Walden confirmed that the filly, known for her pristine record, will not compete due to a recent training setback. This development means La Rascasse will be given a period of rest and recuperation at the farm, postponing her anticipated graded stakes debut and her first race outside of Kentucky.
La Rascasse, an offspring of the acclaimed Authentic, had built an impressive record with two victories from two starts. Her career began with a hard-fought maiden win over seven furlongs at Keeneland on April 11. She then went on to secure a dominant 2 1/4-length triumph in the Monomoy Girl Stakes at Churchill Downs on June 13, marking her successful transition to two turns. In that race, she set a new stakes record, completing 1 1/16 miles in a swift 1:43.13. With earnings totaling $168,183, her absence leaves a significant void in the CCA Oaks field.
Her withdrawal reduces the field to eight contenders, setting the stage for an intense rivalry between Always a Runner and Counting Stars. These two fillies are poised for their third encounter. Always a Runner, trained by Chad Brown, previously bested Counting Stars by 1 1/4 lengths in the Kentucky Oaks (G1) on May 1 at Churchill Downs. However, Mark Casse's Counting Stars retaliated in the Acorn Stakes (G1) at Saratoga on June 5, where she pulled away by 3 3/4 lengths, indicating a fierce competition ahead. Always a Runner is currently favored at 9-5 on the morning line, closely followed by Counting Stars at 2-1, Todd Pletcher's Zany at 9-2, and Brown's Directive at 6-1.
La Rascasse, who was purchased for $750,000 at the 2024 Keeneland September yearling sale, is owned by Resolute Racing and MyRacehorse. The Coaching Club American Oaks represents the second leg of the prestigious Triple Tiara series, which culminates with the Alabama Stakes (G1) in August, also held at Saratoga. The race is scheduled as the tenth event on Saturday's 12-race card, with a post time of 5:45 p.m. EDT.
The decision to scratch La Rascasse underscores the importance of horse welfare in thoroughbred racing. While her absence is disappointing for fans and connections, ensuring her long-term health and career longevity is paramount. The remaining field promises an exciting and competitive race, highlighting the depth of talent in the three-year-old filly division, particularly with the ongoing battle between Always a Runner and Counting Stars.