Early in her career, Zany showed immense promise, quickly becoming one to watch. This daughter of American Pharoah burst onto the scene as a 2-year-old, overpowering rivals in her first two races with commanding victories.
She kicked off with a debut win by 6 1/2 lengths at Gulfstream Park on November 2, followed by a dominant 8 1/2-length victory in the Grade 2 Demoiselle Stakes at Aqueduct on December 6. Hall of Fame trainer Todd Pletcher believed Zany was on track to follow in the footsteps of his legendary fillies like Ashado, Rags to Riches, and Malathaat.
However, her 3-year-old season has been a letdown compared to her electrifying start. With four starts this year, she has only recorded one win—in the Suncoast Stakes at Tampa Bay Downs—and has struggled to find form since. Her finishes include a second in the Grade 1 Ashland at Keeneland, sixth as the 5-1 favorite in the Kentucky Oaks, and fourth in the Grade 1 Coaching Club American Oaks at Saratoga.
Pletcher admits to puzzlement over her performance drop-off but acknowledges her early brilliance and had high hopes for an undefeated Kentucky Oaks victory this year. Hall of Fame jockey John Velazquez, who finished fourth aboard Zany in the Coaching Club American Oaks, will ride her again in Saturday’s $1 million Grade 1 Cotillion Stakes at Parx Racing.
The trainer confirms the filly is physically sound and training well, hoping she can regain her top form. “Winning the Demoiselle by eight lengths in only your second start is no small feat,” Pletcher said. “We’re optimistic she can return to her best.”
This article was originally published by Paulick Report on September 17, 2026.
Fan Take: Zany’s story is a reminder that even the most promising horses can face unexpected challenges, keeping the sport unpredictable and exciting for fans. Her potential rebound in the Cotillion Stakes could reignite her career and inspire hope for other horses struggling to meet early expectations.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
