Beckman's Fillies Eye Oaks Bid in Busher

Trainer Whit Beckman has a strong contender in the Listed $200,000 Busher at Aqueduct with his charges Nycon and Blazing Brat. Both sophomore fillies are being prepared for a potential start in the Kentucky Oaks, a goal Beckman achieved last year with Drexel Hill.

Nycon, who finished a close second in the Cash Run at Gulfstream Park, earned a career-best Beyer Speed Figure in her previous start. "She's coming off a pretty big effort at Gulfstream. She got a little sick out of that, but she has come back great," Beckman stated, indicating her potential for longer races.

Blazing Brat, a new acquisition for Beckman's barn, will also compete in the Busher. This race serves as an experiment to gauge her suitability for longer distances and her potential for the Oaks. "Dirt was her best number," Beckman noted regarding Blazing Brat's performance in her most recent start.

The Busher is a key race for Kentucky Oaks qualification, awarding significant points to the top finishers. Beckman hopes a successful run in this one-turn mile race will set up both fillies for future two-turn tests.