Trainer Phil Bauer plans for Xigera’s winter break before targeting the prestigious Grade 1 race at Churchill Downs
Rigney Racing’s talented filly, Xigera, showcased her exceptional form by securing an impressive 6 1/2-length victory in the Grade 3 Falls City. Trainer Phil Bauer now sets his sights on a well-deserved winter break for Xigera, with the ultimate goal of targeting the Grade 1 La Troienne during the Kentucky Derby 2024 weekend at Churchill Downs. This strategic move echoes the successful path taken by Bauer and his team with last year’s star, Played Hard, who unfortunately fell victim to injury before reaching the Breeders’ Cup. With Xigera now leading the charge, Rigney Racing hopes to fill the void left by Played Hard and make a triumphant return to the prestigious year-end event.
Xigera’s Stellar Season:
Xigera’s victory in the Falls City marked her fifth win of the season from just six starts as a 3-year-old. Bauer made a pivotal decision to switch Xigera to dirt three starts ago, a move that has proven to be a game-changer for the talented filly. In the Seneca Overnight Stakes, Xigera defeated notable contenders such as She’s Lookin Lucky, who finished fourth in the Coaching Club American Oaks (G1), and Taxed, the heroine of the Black Eyed Susan (G2). Xigera then faced off against Grade 1 winner Defining Purpose in the Mother Goose (G2) and emerged victorious with an impressive 3 1/2-length lead.
Following in Played Hard’s Footsteps:
Trainer Phil Bauer is no stranger to success in the Falls City, having won the race last year with Played Hard. Bauer’s meticulous training and strategic planning paid off when Played Hard returned five months later to clinch a thrilling victory in the La Troienne, narrowly defeating Kentucky Oaks (G1) winner Secret Oath. With Xigera now poised to take Played Hard’s place, Bauer hopes to replicate the success of his previous star filly and secure another triumph in the prestigious Grade 1 race.
Winter Break and Future Goals:
Looking ahead, Xigera will be given a well-deserved break during the winter months. This period of rest and recuperation will allow her to recharge and prepare for the upcoming challenges. Trainer Phil Bauer has set his sights on the Grade 1 La Troienne as the primary target for Xigera during the Kentucky Derby 2024 weekend at Churchill Downs. This prestigious race provides the perfect platform for Xigera to showcase her talent and make her mark on the racing world. Furthermore, Bauer has his sights set on the ultimate year-end goal: the Breeders’ Cup. Having been denied the opportunity with Played Hard due to injury, Rigney Racing hopes that Xigera can fill the void and deliver a memorable performance at the pinnacle of the racing calendar.
Conclusion:
Rigney Racing’s Xigera has emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the world of horse racing, capturing the attention of fans and experts alike with her dominant performances. Trainer Phil Bauer’s strategic decision to switch Xigera to dirt has proven to be a game-changer, propelling her to a series of impressive victories. With the Grade 1 La Troienne as the next target on the horizon, Bauer aims to replicate the success he achieved with last year’s star filly, Played Hard. As Xigera takes a well-deserved break this winter, the racing world eagerly awaits her return to the track, where she will strive to fill the shoes of her predecessor and make her mark on the Breeders’ Cup stage.
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