LOUISVILLE, Ky. – The reigning Horse of the Year, Thorpedo Anna, is off to a veterinary clinic for a thorough checkup after a surprising performance at Churchill Downs on Friday. In a highly anticipated return to the track, the 4-year-old filly finished a disappointing seventh in the $1 million La Troienne Stakes for fillies and mares. The unexpected result came as a shock to fans and connections alike, especially considering her remarkable track record leading up to the race.
Thorpedo Anna had been on a roll this season, having recently triumphed in the Apple Blossom Handicap at Oaklawn Park in Arkansas on April 12. However, her return to Churchill Downs did not go as planned. During the race, she was caught in a tight spot between other horses going into the first turn, which seemed to throw her off her stride. By the time they reached the top of the stretch, it was clear that Thorpedo Anna was fading and ultimately finished far off the pace.
Trainer Ken McPeek, who has been with the horse throughout her meteoric rise, shared his thoughts on the setback. In a post on social media, McPeek reflected on the race and the events leading up to it. “The first turn incident may have thrown her off her game, or maybe the three-week turnaround wasn’t my best choice,” McPeek wrote. “She showed no signs she couldn’t handle that. I’m more critical of myself than anyone. Regardless, she won’t be rushed back soon.”
Despite the setback, McPeek noted that Thorpedo Anna was walking well the following day, which brought some relief to her team. Still, he emphasized the importance of taking a measured approach moving forward. The plan now includes X-rays of her knees and ankles to ensure she is in optimal condition. Afterward, she will be sent to Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital in Lexington for further examination, signaling that the team is taking all the necessary precautions to safeguard her health.
The La Troienne was won by Raging Sea, who claimed victory by three-quarters of a length. This was Raging Sea’s first start since finishing second to Thorpedo Anna in last year’s Breeders’ Cup Distaff. The victory marked a strong return for Raging Sea, who looked impressive in her first race back.
As for Thorpedo Anna, the 4-year-old filly’s impressive career has left little doubt about her potential. She won last year’s prestigious Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs and finished the season with six wins in seven starts. Her only loss came at the hands of male horses in the Travers Stakes, where she finished second. With a 10-3 record from 13 career starts and more than $4 million in earnings, Thorpedo Anna has proven herself to be a force to be reckoned with in the world of thoroughbred racing.
Despite Friday’s disappointing result, McPeek remains confident in her abilities and expressed his commitment to ensuring her long-term health and success. The trainer admitted that his decision to race Thorpedo Anna just three weeks after her previous victory might have been too much, and he is now prioritizing her well-being over rushing her back into competition.
For fans and supporters of the remarkable filly, the road ahead may include more downtime than expected. But McPeek’s cautious approach, combined with Thorpedo Anna’s impressive track record, leaves hope that the best is yet to come. With a carefully planned recovery and a focus on her health, Thorpedo Anna will likely return to the track stronger and ready for future triumphs.
As McPeek said in his update, “She won’t be rushed back soon.” For now, the priority is getting her back to her best, and when that happens, fans can expect to see the Horse of the Year back where she belongs – winning races at the highest level.
