LEXINGTON, Ky. — Leslie's Rose took control in the stretch run of the Ashland Stakes at Keeneland Race Course for the win to punch her ticket to the 150th Kentucky Oaks.
The Todd Pletcher trained filly took the lead in the turn and ran away from favorites Just F Y I and Impel to win the race by 3 and 1/2 lengths. She earns 100 points toward the May 3rd Oaks which currently has her sitting in 3rd place in the points standings with two prep races remaining. Just F Y I earned 50 points and is up to 5th in the standings. The Kentucky Oaks is limited to the top 14 points earners.
It's the third victory for Pletcher in the Ashland Stakes and he now takes Leslie's Rose to Churchill Downs on the first Friday in May looking to win his fifth Oaks. That would tie him with D. Wayne Lukas and Woody Stephens for the most in history.
Leslie's Rose returned $20.90, $7.76 and $4.68.
Leslie's Rose was purchased by Whisper Hill Farm at the Keeneland September Yearling Sale for $1.15 million.
