Songbird now a perfect 11 following Cotillion victory

Rick Porter was on hand Saturday at Parx Racing to see his star filly Songbird romp home the easiest of winners in the Cotillion Stakes (G1) under jockey Mike Smith.

With weeks of anticipation leading up to this one moment, the champion stalked pacesetter Carina Mia until nearing the turn before ranging up to take command. Songbird held firm control in the lane and pulled off to earn win number 11 for trainer Jerry Hollendorfer.

Songbird entered the Cotillion off a seven-length score in the Alabama Stakes (G1) and is now headed to the Breeders’ Cup Distaff (G1) at Santa Anita Park on November 4. She’ll put her perfect mark on the line against fellow champion and 2013 Distaff heroine Beholder in that contest.