Generosidade back among distaffers in Bewitch

A Group 1 winner in Brazil, Generosidade needed a few starts to acclimate to North American racing before distinguishing herself versus male rivals at Santa Anita. The 7-year-old mare recorded a 1 ½-length victory in the March 13 San Luis Rey (G2) and followed with a second in the April 10 San Juan Capistrano (G3) last time out. 

The long-distance specialist will switch back to female competition in Friday’s $150,000 Bewitch (G3), the closing-day feature at Keeneland. Trained by Paulo Lobo, Generosidade will retain the services of jockey Tiago Pereira and breaks from post 11 among 12 rivals in the 1 ½-mile turf affair.

Olorda rates as a top contender following her victory in the Very One (G3) at Gulfstream Park. Fourth in the Queen Elizabeth II Challenge Cup (G1) at Keeneland last October, the Chad Brown-trained filly will keep Julien Leparoux in the saddle.

Grade 3 scorer Button Down figures to appreciate the class relief after finishing second to Tepin in the Hillsborough (G3) at Tampa Bay Downs. The 5-year-old mare finished second in her lone attempt at the distance, a Woodbine stakes race last August, and John Velazquez will pick up the mount for Josie Carroll.

Stakes winners Miss Chatelaine and Return to Grace also merit consideration in the full field. James Graham will take over riding duties aboard the Chris Clemente-trained Miss Chatelaine and Joe Rocco Jr. has the return call for Mark Casse on Return to Grace.

Generosidade photo courtesy of Benoit Photo