Get ready to witness a thrilling tale of determination and triumph on the racetrack! A lightly raced 4-year-old named Accelerize just pulled off a stunning upset in the Louisiana Stakes (G3), leaving fans and experts alike in awe. But here's where it gets even more fascinating: this wasn't just any ordinary race for Accelerize—it was his seasonal debut, his stakes debut, and the longest race of his career, all rolled into one. Talk about a high-stakes challenge!
On January 17 at Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots, Accelerize, a son of Omaha Beach, proved he was more than up to the task. Racing for Spendthrift Farm and Repole Stable, he secured an early lead and inside position, setting fast fractions that had many wondering if he could sustain the pace. And this is the part most people miss: when race favorite Just a Touch, a grade 1-placed son of Justify, challenged him in the stretch, Accelerize dug deep, regrouped, and powered to a neck victory in the 1 1/16-mile test for older horses. Jockey Flavien Prat guided him to a final time of 1:43.43 on a fast track, marking a memorable win for trainer Todd Pletcher, who secured his first Louisiana Stakes victory and denied Brad Cox his sixth win in the race since 2019.
But here’s the controversial part: was Accelerize’s win a fluke, or is he the real deal? Some argue that Just a Touch’s wide trip compromised his chances, while others believe Accelerize’s grit and determination sealed the deal. What do you think? Let’s debate in the comments!
Earlier in the day, the veteran Kupuna stole the show in the $100,000 Colonel E. R. Bradley Stakes. This 7-year-old son of Hard Spun, trained by Norm Casse for Flying P Stable, rallied from ninth to claim a 1 1/4-length victory over favorite Lagynos. It was his first stakes win since 2024, proving that experience and perseverance still have a place in this sport. Jockey Luis Saez guided him to a winning time of 1:42.37 on firm turf.
Meanwhile, Medoro, a grade 3 winner from Southern California, shipped to New Orleans and delivered a commanding performance in the $100,000 Marie G. Krantz Memorial Stakes. Trained by Peter Eurton and ridden by Jose Ortiz, the 5-year-old daughter of Honor Code rallied from fifth to win by three-quarters of a length in 1:42.17 on firm turf. Her ability to adapt to a new track and competition highlights her versatility and talent.
And let’s not forget Usually Wrong, who kicked off 2026 with a bang in the $100,000 Duncan F. Kenner Stakes. This 5-year-old son of Lookin At Lucky, trained by Robertino Diodoro, set a course record of 1:01.63 for the 5 1/2-furlong sprint on firm turf. Jockey Isaac Castillo piloted him to a 2 3/4-length victory, capping off a day filled with record-breaking performances and unforgettable moments.
So, which of these victories impressed you the most? And do you think Accelerize’s win signals the rise of a new star, or was it just a lucky day? Share your thoughts below—let’s keep the conversation going!
