Yahilwa finds gold in Treasure Chest Stakes

Four-year-old Medaglia d'Oro filly Yahilwa made quite a statement November 22 impressing in the Treasure Chest Stakes at Delta Downs.

Sent off as the even-money favorite, Yahilwa was advancing throughout the one-mile race. Looming three-wide entering the far turn, the filly took control at the top of the stretch and couldn't be caught for an easy victory. It was the second win in a row for the daughter of Medaglia d'Oro, who captured a Santa Anita Allowance by more than three lengths in late October. The filly has previously placed in the G3 Adoration Stakes, also at Santa Anita.

Bred by Avalon Farms, Inc., Yahilwa is out of the Smart Strike mare Verbanella, a half-sister to the dam of multiple Graded Stakes winner Elaborate. The filly hails from the family of Champion and G1 winner Smart Angle.

Yahilwa becomes Stakes winner number 63 for Medaglia d'Oro, who has also been represented this year by G1 Gulfstream Park Handicap winner Lochte, G1 Just A Game winner Coffee Clique, and well-bred G3 Pilgrim Stakes winner Imperia, among others. Among his best runners are Horse Of The Year Rachel Alexandra and G1 Kentucky Oaks winner Plum Pretty.

Medaglia d'Oro will stand the 2015 breeding season for $125,000 live foal, stands and nurses.