A little more than a month ago, I was watching a livestream of races at the Curragh in Ireland and happened to see a horse named Wisconsin finish second in a ten-furlong maiden race. After discovering that he is trained by Ireland’s top trainer Aidan O’Brien and is a well-bred son of Deep Impact out of Peeping Fawn, I added the colt to my watch list and eagerly awaited his next start.
His next start came just twelve days later when he won a 12.5-furlong maiden race at Tipperary, prompting me to write an article explaining why I couldn’t help but cheer for a horse named Wisconsin.
Now Wisconsin will take a step up in class and distance for the Group 2 Queen’s Vase Stakes at Royal Ascot on June 23rd. The 14-furlong race has attracted thirteen starters, with Wisconsin being generally regarded as the co-fifth choice at about 9-1. (Free past performances for all of the Royal Ascot races are available on the Brisnet website, while a free Royal Ascot betting guide can be found on the TwinSpires.com blog.)
While the Queen’s Vase will surely be a competitive race, I believe Wisconsin will give a good account of himself. The extended distance of the race could prove beneficial since he’s already proven at 12.5 furlongs; only two of his rivals have won going that distance or farther. And with just two starts under his belt, he’s the least experienced horse in the race, suggesting that he’s got plenty of room for improvement.
In any case, you know I’ll be cheering for another good run from Wisconsin! The complete schedule of Royal Ascot races, including post times, can be found on the Royal Ascot page at TwinSpires.com.
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