McPeek Has Two Chances At Record-Tying Sixth Darley Alcibiades Victory
At 12h01, on October 6, 2023 • By KEENELAND
A victory in Friday’s 72nd running of the $600,000 Darley Alcibiades (G1) would put trainer Kenny McPeek in a tie with D. Wayne Lukas for most victories in the race for 2-year-old fillies. He has a double chance of gaining that sixth triumph after entering MJM Racing and Magdalena Racing’s V V’s Dream and Walking L Thoroughbreds’ Shimmering Allure.
“I remember when I wanted to win just one Alcibiades,” McPeek said. “I think what I am most proud of is that I bought all of them at auction and developed them with my team. I guess the first time you could call us lucky, but the second time and then the third time, well. My goal is to win 10.”
V V’s Dream, purchased by McPeek at the 2022 Keeneland September Yearling Sale for $190,000, is looking for her third career triumph following her 8¾-length score in the 1-mile Pocahontas (G3) at Churchill Downs on Sept. 16. Her only defeat came when she was beaten a half-length by WSS Racing’s unbeaten Brightwork, the likely Darley Alcibiades favorite, in the Debutante (L) at Ellis Park on July 2.
“I don’t think she will have any trouble going 1 1/16 miles for the first time,” McPeek said about her chances in the Darley Alcibiades. “She seems to be a push-button filly, and I think the added distance will suit her even more.”
McPeek’s other Darley Alcibiades winners are Simply Ravishing (2020), September Sale graduate Restless Rider (2018), September Sale graduate Dream Empress (2008), Take Charge Lady (2001) and She’s a Devil Due (2000). Eight of his runners have finished second.
