Get ready for a thrilling showdown on the racetrack, as three graded stakes winners and a rising star filly gear up to battle it out in the upcoming Comely Stakes (G3). But here's where it gets controversial: can the seasoned champions hold off the momentum of the newcomer? Mark your calendars for December 7, when Aqueduct Racetrack will host this $200,000 event, spanning 1 1/8 miles on the main dirt track. This race isn’t just about speed—it’s about strategy, pedigree, and the unpredictable nature of horse racing that keeps fans on the edge of their seats.
Leading the pack is Fully Subscribed, the likely favorite trained by the renowned Chad Brown. This 3-year-old filly, a daughter of Tiz the Law, stormed to victory in the Mother Goose Stakes (G2) at Aqueduct on November 8, dominating with a 4 1/2-length win. Her consistency is remarkable—she’s never finished off the board in four starts, including a close second in a 1 1/8-mile allowance race at Aqueduct in September. Bred in Kentucky by Payson Stud and purchased for $300,000 at the Ocala Breeders' Sales, Fully Subscribed boasts a 2-1-1 record and earnings of $245,300. Jockey Flavien Prat will guide her from post 6, aiming to solidify her status as a top contender.
And this is the part most people miss: while Fully Subscribed’s credentials are impressive, Kappa Kappa is no underdog. Trained by Butch Reid Jr., this grade 2 winner took the Raven Run Stakes (G2) at Keeneland in October, showcasing her speed over 7 furlongs. Though she’s only attempted two turns once—finishing second by 5 3/4 lengths at Parx Racing—Reid believes she’s a natural at longer distances. ‘I thought from the beginning that she’s a two-turn horse,’ Reid said. ‘This race is part of a long-term plan to shape her schedule for next year.’ Co-owned by Reid, LC Racing, and Cash is King, Kappa Kappa has won three of her four starts and will break from post 5 with Hall of Fame jockey John Velazquez in the saddle. Here’s the bold question: Can she prove her stamina against tougher competition?
Another graded stakes winner, Quietside, enters the race with a point to prove. After capturing the Honeybee Stakes (G3) and Fantasy Stakes (G2) at Oaklawn Park earlier this year, she’s been off the board in her last two starts, including an eighth-place finish in the Raven Run. But don’t count her out—Quietside has a strong record at longer distances, with a 2-2-1 record from six starts at 1 1/16 miles or more. Trained by John Ortiz and ridden by Ricardo Santana Jr., she’ll break from the outside post. Controversial take: Could her recent setbacks be a blessing in disguise, giving her the rest needed to bounce back?
Adding to the intrigue is Valtellina, an improving filly who comes into the Comely off a 2 1/4-length win in the Empire Distaff Stakes for New York-breds at Aqueduct. Trained by Ray Handal and ridden by Joel Rosario, she’s won or placed in three consecutive New York-bred stakes since July. Thought-provoking question: Can she rise to the challenge against tougher, open company?
The field is rounded out by Noticeable, Ourdaydreaminggirl, Ruth, and Yes It Tiz, each bringing their own stories and potential to the table. With such a diverse and talented lineup, the Comely Stakes promises to be a race for the ages. What’s your take? Who do you think will take the crown, and which horse might surprise us all? Let’s hear your predictions in the comments!
