Nest comes rolling into the Breeders' Cup Distaff

Following a second against males in June’s Belmont S. (G1), Nest stepped up with a series of stunning performances, winning the Coaching Club American Oaks (G1), Alabama (G1), and Beldame (G2) by a combined 26 1/4 lengths. The latter came over elders, and Nest will look to add the $2 million Breeders’ Cup Distaff (G1) at Keeneland to her burgeoning ledger on Nov. 5.

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She will try to become the 12th three-year-old filly winner in the race’s 39-year history.

Her triple-digit Brisnet Speed ratings certainly fill the bill, registering numbers of 107 and 108 in the last four starts, and the Todd Pletcher-trained daughter of Curlin seemingly took a huge step forward after recording a non-threatening second to Secret Oath in the Kentucky Oaks (G1) in early May.

Nest has been favored in every start this season except the final leg of the Triple Crown, and the bay filly is a leading candidate for Distaff favoritism.

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Campaigned by Repole Stable, Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners, and Michael House, Nest classifies as an early/presser. She’s never led wire-to-wire, recording seven wins from 10 career starts, but the versatile sophomore possesses the tactical foot to race close to the pace before offering another gear into the stretch.

Her century-topping Brisnet Late Pace ratings catch the eye, earning a 112 for a 9 3/4-length score in the Beldame, and Nest will retain the services of 14-time Breeders’ Cup race winner Irad Ortiz Jr. in the 1 1/8-mile Breeders’ Cup Distaff.

Rivals include stablemate Malathaat, who will draw support following wins in the Personal Ensign (G1) and Spinster (G1). A close third in last year’s Breeders’ Cup Distaff, the four-year-old filly improved to 3-for-3 at Keeneland when recording a 5 1/4-length decision in the Spinster.

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Clairiere, who edged Malathaat in the Ogden Phipps (G1) and Shuvee (G2) this summer, is another dangerous foe. Like Nest and Malathaat, Clairiere is a daughter of Curlin, and Steve Asmussen trains the late runner.

Nest will receive a three-pound allowance from those elder opponents. And with the ability to make her own trip, she figures to get first run on her main challengers.

Sterling form makes Nest a formidable presence in the Breeders’ Cup Distaff.