The date for the 2010 Lane’s End S. (G2), Turfway Park’s prep race for the
Kentucky Derby (G1), has been changed to March 27, a week later than the 1
1/8-mile test traditionally has been run.
“We looked at several factors in making the decision to move the Lane’s End,”
Turfway President Robert N. Elliston said. “First, running the race five weeks
before the Derby instead of the traditional six weeks should mesh with the trend
toward giving horses more time between major races. Trainers can more
comfortably make the Lane’s End their final prep.
“In addition, March 27 is also the date of the Dubai World Cup (UAE-G1), and
the interest that card generates among bettors should mean more eyes will be on
the Lane’s End as well. Finally, March weather in Northern Kentucky is always a
toss-up, and having an additional week gives us not only more time to promote
the race but also a better shot at crowd-friendly weather.”
The other stakes traditionally run on Lane’s End Stakes day — the
Bourbonette Oaks (G3), Rushaway S., Queen S. and Hansel S. — will also move to
March 27. The Fairway Fun S., already scheduled to run March 27, will remain on
that day.
The dates for Turfway’s local preps leading to the Lane’s End will not
change. The 6 1/2-furlong Turfway Prevue was run January 2, the one-mile WEBN S.
will take place on January 30 and the 1 1/16-mile John Battaglia Memorial S. is
scheduled for February 27.
Other events surrounding the Lane’s End maintain their timing relative to the
race. The traditional Lane’s End Stakes cap giveaway will be March 13 and the
30th annual commemorative glass giveaway is scheduled for March 20. Also set for
the 20th is the 9th annual Charity Night at the Tables.
The Call to the Post Luncheon and Post Position Draw will be held March 25,
consistent with the track’s current entry schedule.