Elysian Field overhauled Caitlinhergrtness and Queen Regent in deep stretch to win the G3 Maple Leaf Stakes at Woodbine on Saturday, 9 November.
The four-year-old daughter of Hard Spun, who was named Canada’s Champion three-year-old filly in 2023, led home a Stakes exacta for her sire, as veteran campaigner Millie Girl got up for second.
A field of 11 went to the post in the 10-furlong Maple Leaf, with 2024 King's Plate winner, Caitlinhergrtness, favored off her third-place finish in the G1 Queen Elizabeth II Challenge Cup at Keeneland. Elysian Field broke well and was settled near the rear of the field early as Aha Moment (Nyquist) went to the front to set the pace.
Aha Moment continued to lead down the backstretch but was overtaken for the lead by Caitlinhergrtness heading into the far turn. Elysian Field continued to advance on the leader while racing wide on the turn. Set down for the drive at the top of the lane, Elysian Field came with a relentless charge to eventually reel in both Caitlinhergrtness and Queen Regent nearing the wire to win by one-and-a-quarter lengths. Millie Girl overcame an awkward start to rally between rivals to secure second.
Elysian Field was bred in Ontario by Anderson Farms and is out of the mare Elysian, by Smart Strike. Elysian’s dam, the Stakes-winning mare, Initiation, is herself a half-sister to Stakes winners Multiple Choice (G3 Jaipur), Silver City and Inspired. Elysian is also a half to the mare, Treasure (Medaglia d’Oro), dam of National Treasure, winner of the G1 Preakness, G1 Met Mile and G1 Pegasus World Cup.
In addition to Elysian Field, Hard Spun is also the sire of 2024 Graded Stakes winners Sparkle Blue (G3 Hillsborough Stakes) and Highway Robber (G3 Sycamore Stakes, setting a new Stakes and course record at Keeneland). Hard Spun is also represented by Stakes winners Necker Island, Good Lord Lorrie, Informed Patriot, Kupuna, Give It a Whirl and Drum Roll Please.
Hard Spun will stand the 2025 breeding season at Jonabell Farm for $25,000, stands and nurses.
