Nitrogen, the reigning champion 3-year-old filly, made a strong statement in her season opener, the $250,000 Bayakoa Stakes (G3) at Oaklawn Park. With her talent and heart on full display, she easily outpaced stablemate Nerazurri in the stretch, drawing off to a 2 3/4-length victory. This win not only showcased her early-season prowess but also highlighted her ability to excel against older rivals, a feat she's consistently achieved. Nitrogen, a 4-year-old daughter of Medaglia d'Oro, has been a force to be reckoned with, earning a Sovereign Award in 2024 as Canada's champion 2-year-old filly. Her 2025 performances included runner-up finishes in prestigious races like the Spinster Stakes (G1) and the Breeders' Cup Distaff (G1). On Saturday, she cruised in third for much of the race, maintaining a striking distance, before making a powerful three-wide move into the far turn. This move saw her engage Nerazurri for the lead, ultimately drawing away to an easy win in 1:43.53 on a fast track. With her 13th career start, Nitrogen improves to 7-4-2 with earnings surpassing $2.1 million. Her career began on turf, where she earned two grade 1 placings, before shifting to dirt racing in the summer and autumn. Her clear victory over Good Cheer in the Alabama Stakes (G1) last year on the main track at Saratoga Race Course helped secure her championship honors. Trainer Mark Casse, impressed by Nitrogen's performance, expressed his awe, stating, 'She amazes me and makes me look good.' Casse's stable also saw success with Nerazurri, who secured second place, well ahead of third-place Quietside, earning her second graded stakes placing. However, the day wasn't without its setbacks. Casse-trained Sandman, the winner of last year's Arkansas Derby (G1) at Oaklawn, finished fifth in a tough allowance optional claiming race. Despite Sandman's 3-5 odds, he couldn't find room from the two path in the early stretch, racing evenly to the wire. The race was won by San Siro, a 5-year-old Classic Empire gelding, who rallied from last place under Cristian Torres for trainer Brendan Walsh. This season opener showcased Nitrogen's continued dominance and the potential for further success as she heads into the March 7 Azeri Stakes (G2) at Oaklawn.
