Hit Show, a 5-year-old Candy Ride horse trained by Brad Cox and owned by Wathnan Racing, successfully defended his title in the Grade 3 Fayette Stakes at Keeneland. After settling mid-pack early, jockey Irad Ortiz Jr. urged Hit Show with a right-handed crop in the final furlong, powering the horse to a strong finish and a one-length victory over deep-closing Rattle N Roll. This win adds to Hit Show’s impressive 2025 record, which includes victories in the Louisiana (G3), Dubai World Cup (G1), and West Virginia Governor’s Stakes, bringing his career earnings to over $8 million.

The race featured a fast early pace set by Dilger, but as the leaders faded, Hit Show moved wide and surged past the competition in the stretch. Despite a late charge from Rattle N Roll, who drifted out and lost momentum, Hit Show maintained the lead with a final time of 1:50.39 over 1 1/8 miles. Ortiz praised the horse’s readiness and the training by Cox, highlighting Hit Show’s consistency and affinity for the distance. Hit Show remains undefeated at Keeneland with three wins, including his Fayette Stakes victories in 2022 and 2024.