The Kentucky Derby is just over a fortnight away, and pressure is building. For the many trainers and horses vying for the crown, and of course, for Bob Baffert, making his return to Churchill Downs following his suspension in 2021. The stage is set, Citizen Bull and Rodriguez have qualified, and the race draws ever closer. Although Baffert and his colts have been hogging the headlines, suddenly the attention has shifted to the opposite side to the fillies.

Following the Grade 1 Apple Blossom Handicap at Oaklawn Park, the 2024 Horse of the Year, Thorpedo Anna, was yet again the Belle of the Ball with her rip-roaring race to victory. Although she had a somewhat sluggish beginning, the 4-year-old filly swiftly found her rhythm and showed everyone just how deserving she is of that “HotY” title.

Following the slow start, she positioned herself just behind the early frontrunner, Wild Bout Hilary. As seen on the Kentucky Derby’s official X profile, with jockey Brian Hernandez Jr. holding the reins, she seized control with 6 furlongs, effortlessly distancing herself to secure victory by 4¼ lengths over Free Like a Girl, while Where’s My Ring claimed third place.

With a top weight of 124 pounds, Thorpedo Anna finished the 1 1/16-mile race in a swift 1:44.27 on a fast track, marking her 10th win in 12 starts and elevating her career earnings to nearly $4.8 million. “She went around the (second) turn with her ears up—she was just gonna kind of cruise from there,” said Hernandez after the race, illustrating just how cool a customer Thorpedo Anna is. And naturally, her fans were thrilled to see her seize victory yet again.

Thorpedo Anna is clearly a fan favorite

It’s rare to witness a horse eclipsing Bob Baffert in terms of popularity, especially in the weeks leading up to the Kentucky Derby. Nonetheless, with Thorpedo Anna accomplishing this feat, a fan expressed, “Wonderful to have this champion at Oaklawn! Hate to see her leave us! We wish Thorpedo Anna the best on her next travels and races.”

Another fan expressed their thoughts on the competition, saying, “They would have had to tie her back legs together to beat her. She is everything you want in a HoTY.” In a similar vein, another supporter commented, “She’s just in a different league.” Here is a case of some serious unquestioned dominance!

Without a doubt, this victory has undoubtedly filled her trainer with pride for Thorpedo Anna. After the race, Kenneth McPeek remarked, “Little nerve-wracking at that price, but just really proud of her, as always. She’s going to come right back in the [GI] La Troienne Stakes in three weeks [May 2]. We think we’ve got her in good-enough shape. She’s a bit of an old-school filly and we’re nominated. That’s the plan.” According to her trainer, she will be back on the track in a few weeks, competing in another Grade 1 race and hopefully treating us to yet another exciting win.

The filly undoubtedly left an impression, as this enthusiast emphasized her achievement, declaring, “Horse of the year.” In a comparable sentiment, another enthusiast remarked,“2024 Horse of the Year! Still winning!” This victory once again reaffirmed Thorpedo Anna’s dominance on the track. In just a few weeks, the spotlight will not only be on Bob Baffert at Churchill Downs, but Thorpedo Anna will also make her presence felt at the iconic racecourse for the Grade 1 La Troienne Stakes.