Quotes from the $400,000 Central Bank Ashland (G1)

Click here for a replay of the race and the post-race interview with winning connections.
Joel Rosario (winning rider of Malathaat)

“She has a beautiful stride. This morning talking with (trainer Todd Pletcher), he told me exactly how to ride her. It looked like (the leader) was getting away from me but I knew my filly would be there for me.”

Rick Nichols (Vice President and General Manager of winning owner Shadwell Stable)

On earning the prestigious Keeneland Tray in recognition of Shadwell’s eighth graded stakes victory at the track. Shadwell owner Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum recently died.

“I can’t put it into words. I am sure (Sheikh Hamdan) is up there with a big smile on his face looking down on us. We really needed this.”

"I think (Malathaat) might be pretty special. We will see if we can get in the (Kentucky) Oaks and see what we can get done.”

George Weaver (trainer of runner-up Pass the Champagne)

“I thought she was a winner when she came off the turn. I know it’s a short run to the wire and I was like ‘man we’ve got open lengths.’ The wire could not come soon enough and Todd’s filly (Malathaat) came running. Todd’s filly has been training with me at Palm Beach Downs and I know he’s very high on her. There is no embarrassment getting beat by her today. First time two turns, I would look for a big improvement next time.”

Jon Court (rider of third-place finisher Will’s Secret)

“The race sort of had interesting tactics when you are dealing with a short stretch. I probably had to move on her a little bit early to try and catch the top two. I think she’s going to love the longer stretch in the (Kentucky) Oaks (at Churchill Downs).”

Kenny McPeek (trainer of sixth-place finisher and favorite Simply Ravishing)

“She stopped in her last race and she stopped again (in this race). We’re going to check her out.”