Taj Mahal, a son of Nyquist, showcased his toughness by holding off the favored Let’s Go Lando in a fierce stretch duel to win the $100,000 Miracle Wood Stakes at Laurel Park. Trained by Brittany Russell and ridden by Sheldon Russell, Taj Mahal led from the start, demonstrating both speed and stamina on a sealed, muddy track to prevail by a neck in 1:39.47. Despite the quick turnaround from his maiden win just two weeks prior, the colt showed maturity and grit, with his trainer noting that the race would help him develop mentally and physically.
On the same day at Laurel, Peach Tie extended her unbeaten dirt record to five with a commanding three-length victory in the $100,000 Wide Country Stakes for 3-year-old fillies. Also trained by Brittany Russell and ridden by Sheldon Russell, Peach Tie took control mid-race and powered home strongly in 1:27.80. The homebred daughter of Preservationist has impressed her connections with her versatility and consistency, and her next target could be the Beyond the Wire Stakes at one mile in March. Both horses highlight the success of Brittany Russell’s training stable at Laurel Park.
