Oaks Post #17: Biter Hollandia

When trainer yochem took over the barrstable for an ailing fellow simster, little did he know that this stable would take him on a dream ride.  So, it would seem that when he sent the mare Biter Phone (Crusader Sword x Affirmed) to the Deputy Minister stallion French Deputy, yochem was simply looking to breed a solid runner.  After all, that exact combo had produced an early winner, and has since produced a 2 year old winner this spring.

The result of that mating was Biter Hollandia, and so far she has proven to be worth tons more than the 120 breeding points it took in order to produce her.  In fact, this speedy filly has taken an Equinics race with style and has won a slew of other stakes on her way to earning a spot in Saturday’s Grade 1 Bluegrass Oaks.

Known for her speed, yochem is quick to point out that ‘Biter’ does not need the lead to win.  In the Equinics, ‘Biter’ rated just off the pace and drew off down the lane to win.  That day, jockey Alex Rolling was aboard.  Saturday, horse and rider reunite to try for the big prize.

When asked about Rolling, yochem expressed complete faith in his rider.

“He has great tactical insight,” he said, “and we will leave the tactics to him as usual.”

In her latest effort, a victory in the Mom’s Dream Come True Stakes, Biter Hollandia opened up a huge lead, only to hold on by a slim nose at the line.  Yochem points to rider error for her getting tired late.

“I’m sure Rolling will do a better job,” he says.

Yochem speaks of this filly as if she were made of gold.  After the Equinics win, this race apparently has been a prime target.

“Biter is a filly with character,” yochem expalins. “If you look at the past performances, she’s always on the front, and she keeps fighting to the wire.  She has a huge heart and has been a diamond to train.”

Saturday, we shall see if that diamond was born to wear the lillies.  She breaks from post 17, and will be one of the top choices for the 2006 renewal of the Bluegrass Oaks.