Celebrity News Race Recap

A very impressive career debut today from Celebrity News, who showed versatility in her running style to finish a sharp second at Aqueduct in Race 5. Ridden by Manny Franco, Celebrity News was beaten 1 1/4 lengths by the winner, No Chalk.

Our 3-year-old New York-bred filly handled the race-day proceedings like a consummate pro. She was calm, yet alert, in the paddock and post parade, and handled the starting gate experience without an issue. She also took dirt in the face, which Manny (whose video interview was posted as an update immediately after the race) said she handled well.

Celebrity News broke nicely and forged to the early lead in the 6 1/2-furlong race, but then relaxed beautifully and transitioned into a stalking position in third down the backstretch while two other rivals set the early fractions. Manny guided the filly outside for the stretch run and she came roaring in the final yards to reel in Big Bean Christine, who had the lead as the wire loomed, but our filly didn’t have the advantage of seeing No Chalk, who slipped up the rail for the victory.

Trainer George Weaver, who watched the race from Florida, was very pleased and told our East Coast Racing Manager Harry Rice that he was really happy with the effort, noting that the two other horses who were part of the early pace, finished at the back of the pack.

With today’s effort, George said he would certainly consider running Celebrity News back in the $200,000 Park Avenue Stakes at Aqueduct on April 24. The Park Avenue, which is restricted to the progeny of New York-sired horses, typically draws smaller fields and it’s not at all uncommon for maidens to partake and perform well in those races.

Celebrity News was well represented today by a big cheering section of her partners who were at Aqueduct, and we know she had her fans watching from home as well. Although it wasn’t a win, the filly’s partners can be very satisfied that it was a good result and a terrific educational experience for her.

We will check in on how Celebrity News exited her race in the coming days and will report back.

In the meantime, please enjoy these lovely photos of your filly, courtesy of track photographer Adam Coglianese.