Lady Apple could continue to follow in the hoofprints of illustrious barn-mate Midnight Bisou with a run at Oaklawn likely to be next on her agenda.
The Phoenix Thoroughbreds and KatieRich Farm owned filly added a fourth Grade Three to her resume when landing the Houston Ladies Classic at Sam Houston last time out. To assure that success she beat both Kentucky Oaks winner Serengeti Empress and Contillion champion Street Band.
“[When] a filly that runs as hard as she does and is as consistent as she is gets the opportunity and actually raises their game to a new level, it’s one of the greatest feelings as a trainer,” Asmussen said. “She beat two Grade 1 winners in her first start of the year.”
The Daughter of Curlin will be nominated for the Bayakoa Stakes on February 17 at Oaklawn but could take the same route as Midnight Bisou who took in the Azeri and Apple Blossom Stakes, also at Oaklawn, following her 2019 Houston Ladies Classic triumph.
“I’m expecting her to race next at Oaklawn,” added Asmussen. “She’s 3 for 3 at Oaklawn. It’s the next obvious direction to go with her.”
The Grade 2, $350,000 Azeri is scheduled for March 14 with The Apple Blossom slated for April 18.