Maxfield on top again in G2 Alysheba Stakes

Maxfield atoned for a first career defeat with a dominant victory in the G2 Alysheba Stakes at Churchill Downs, USA, on Friday, 30 April.

The Street Sense colt was dropping back to an extended mile having scored over similar trips on his first five starts, including the G1 Breeders’ Futurity, before coming home third when stretching out to a mile and a quarter for the G1 Santa Anita Handicap in March.

After breaking on terms, Maxfield disputed a close third on the outside of the field before taking slightly closer order behind Visitant and Roadster down the back straight.

The Brendan Walsh-trained four-year-old loomed up around the front two turning in and travelled powerfully into the lead a furlong and a half out.

Jose Ortiz asked Maxfield to win his race soon after and the Godolphin homebred opened up a significant advantage in the closing stages, passing the line three and a quarter lengths clear of Visitant.

Brendan Walsh said: “I just told Jose Ortiz to get Maxfield into a nice rhythm as he likes to roll along and get into that cruising speed. He is an adaptable horse, so he is easy to ride whatever the circumstances.

“Physically he is a stronger horse now. As time has gone on, he has gradually filled out and he is up to his full maturity, which is exciting. He loves this track, and he hasn’t done anything wrong. But actually he hasn’t done anything wrong at any track where he has run. He’s just a very good horse.”

Jose Ortiz added: “I was very confident all the way around. We were right where I wanted to be. When it came time to go, he was there for me. He is one of the nice ones.”