Shirley Jones

Madcap Escapade earned her last win in the Ashland (Joseph DiOrio/Horsephotos.com)

Madcap Escapade is an extremely fast filly who reeled off three straight

victories over this surface last season by a combined 26 1/2 lengths, including

a daylight romp at 1-5 in the seven-furlong Forward Gal S. (G2), before

defeating eventual Eclipse Award winner Ashado (Saint Ballado) in her first

start around two turns in the 1 1/16-mile Ashland S. (G1) at Keeneland. The

Frank Brothers-trained filly has recorded triple-digit BRIS Speed figures in all five

of her career starts and has been training impressively for her return. From the

rail post, she figures to go right to the front and prove difficult, if not

impossible, to catch under Jerry Bailey.

Society Selection made a sweeping move around the far turn and finished like

her tail was on fire to win the seven-furlong Test by a widening 6 1/4 lengths

in the mud. The bay four-year-old, who carries top weight of 120 pounds, would

benefit from an off track, but that is not in the forecast. She could also

benefit from an contested early pace if ALIX M (End Sweep) gets sent from the

outside, but that one will most likely want to settle into a stalking position.

Society Selection figures to be a factor at the wire and gets the nod for

runner-up honors.

Alix M, who has yet to finish off the board in 10 career starts, pressed fast

fractions before gamely winning the six-furlong Sunshine Millions Filly & Mare

Sprint by 3 1/2 lengths over the highly regarded Bear Fan (Pine Bluff), who

could successfully defend her crown in Saturday's Barbara Fritchie H. (G2) at

Laurel Park. Alix M has solid early speed and is well drawn on the outside for a

clear stalking trip. She is a player for a share.