Here’s a bold statement for you: Atsila, the European import, is poised to shake up the American Oaks, but her journey hasn’t been without its twists and turns. And this is the part most people miss: her story is as much about resilience as it is about racing. Let’s dive in.
Originally, Atsila was expected to be a household name by now. With a debut win and a Group 3 victory under her belt in Europe, she seemed destined for greatness, especially as a long shot in the Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Turf. But fate had other plans. On the morning of the race, the 3-year-old filly, owned by Kentucky-based Barry Fowler and Taylor Made, was one of 13 horses scratched by regulatory veterinarians during the championship races at Del Mar. Trainer Richard Baltas revealed, ‘She had like a little right-front foot or something.’ Despite the setback, her owners decided to keep her in the U.S., entrusting her to Baltas for the American Oaks.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Atsila’s transition from Ireland-based trainer Donnacha O’Brien to Baltas has raised eyebrows. Can a European-trained horse adapt to American racing styles? Baltas, who took over her reins, is confident but cautious. ‘She’s run in Group 1s over there,’ he noted, ‘but this is a mile-and-a-quarter, a distance she’s never tried before.’ Despite this, Atsila was named the 5-2 morning-line favorite, a decision Baltas found surprising. ‘They probably just looked at the class and the fact that she’s coming off a layoff,’ he explained.
Atsila’s pedigree and past performances are impressive. Bred in Ireland by Paul and Elizabeth Duffy, she’s a Phoenix of Spain filly who O’Brien purchased for $52,965. Her career began with a maiden win at Bellewstown, followed by a victory in the Athasi Stakes (G3) at the Curragh. However, her subsequent Group 1 outings in Ireland, England, and France saw her finish off the board—until a strong third-place finish in the Matron Stakes (G1) at Leopardstown. Her most recent start in the Chariot Stakes (G1) at Newmarket was less impressive, but Baltas remains optimistic.
To prepare for the American Oaks, Baltas has been meticulous. He’s watched videos of her races, studied trip notes, and given her extra schooling at Santa Anita. ‘She stood in the gate really good,’ he said, addressing her past gate issues. ‘She might not be super quick out of there, but she doesn’t need to be going a mile-and-a-quarter.’ Atsila’s racing style—coming from off the pace—has been her strength, and Baltas hopes it will be her edge on Sunday.
Here’s the burning question: Can Atsila handle the longer distance? Baltas admits, ‘I’m not 100% sure, to tell you the truth.’ However, recent breezes at Santa Anita suggest her foot trouble is behind her, and her toughness and attitude are undeniable. ‘She seems like a very tough filly,’ Baltas added.
The competition won’t make it easy. Will Then (7-2) and Totally Justified (5-1), both stakes winners as 2-year-olds, are expected to challenge Atsila. But Baltas is focused on one thing: ‘We just want a good effort.’
As the American Oaks approaches, the question remains: Will Atsila’s European credentials translate to American success? Only time will tell. What do you think? Is Atsila a sure bet, or is the distance too much of a wildcard? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
