Locked, a 4-year-old son of Gun Runner and the lone Grade 1 winner in the upcoming Woodward Stakes (G2) at Aqueduct, faces a pivotal race on September 27 that could determine his path toward the Breeders’ Cup and his future stud career at Gainesway. After early success including wins in the 2023 Breeders’ Futurity (G1) and Santa Anita Handicap (G1), Locked has struggled recently, finishing third and fourth in his last two starts. Trainer Todd Pletcher believes the extra time off and returning to Aqueduct, where Locked has previously excelled, have helped him regain top form, making the Woodward a crucial test ahead of the Breeders’ Cup Classic or Dirt Mile.
Locked, purchased for $425,000 and earning over $1.7 million, will face up to six rivals including Suburban Stakes winner Phileas Fogg and Polynesian Stakes winner Post Time. Owner Aron Wellman of Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners emphasized the importance of a strong Woodward performance to justify a Breeders’ Cup start. With the Breeders’ Cup five weeks away, Locked’s performance in this $300,000, 1 1/8-mile race will be key in shaping the final stages of his racing career before retirement to stud.
