SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y.—Michael Dubb and Michael J. Caruso’s Hot Peppers is in good order and now a Grade 1 stakes-placed filly after running second in the $500,000 Longines Test to Chi Town Lady Saturday at Saratoga Race Course.
Over a good and sealed main track, Hot Peppers, under guidance from returning rider Luis Saez, broke on top and took the field around the turn, holding off a challenge from the odds-on favorite Matareya, but was unable to fend off a furious run down the lane from the Joel Rosario-piloted Chi Town Lady.
“She looks good and tried hard,” said Rodriguez. “It’s a tough beat, but we’re happy with the effort.”
Finishing ahead of a Grade 1 winner like Matareya gives Hot Peppers’ conditioner confidence she can remain at the level she raced against Saturday.
“She’s a filly that can be very competitive. She doesn’t want to give an inch and that’s what you want to see in fillies,” said Rodriguez. “She kept digging in.”
Hot Peppers earned a career high 88 Beyer Speed Figure. She owns a record of 8-5-2-0 with earnings of $377,950.
NYRA Press Office
Photo: Hot Peppers winning the Victory Ride at Belmont July 9 at Belmont. (Susie Raisher)
