Kavala seeks third straight score
At 1h37, on April 29, 2023 • By WOODBINE
Trainer Bill Tharrenos sends out Kavala in Saturday’s $125,000 Star Shoot, the first stakes race of the 2023 Woodbine Thoroughbred season.
The six-furlong Star Shoot, for 3-year-old fillies, has traditionally been a key prep for the Woodbine Oaks Presented by Budweiser, slated for July 23, the first leg of the prestigious Canadian Triple Tiara series.
Kavala was claimed by Tharrenos for owner James William Fleming out of her first race, a maiden claiming event contested over 5 ½ furlongs on the Tapeta at Gulfstream on January 4.
Bred in Kentucky by Frankfort Park Farm, Kavala had her first test over the Toronto oval Tapeta on April 9, breezing four furlongs in :49.40. One week later, she covered five panels in :59.40, handily, with Rafael Hernandez in the saddle. On April 23, she breezed four furlongs on the Tapeta in :48.20.
Tharrenos, coming off a career-best year, highlighted by 36 wins and $1,049,418 (U.S.) in purse earnings, likes what he sees in Kavala, both on and off the racetrack.
The veteran conditioner is hoping she can step up in her first stakes appearance.