Classic Q by a nose
Classic Q won the 29th running of the $800,000 First Lady Stakes Grade 1 at Keeneland Race Course on October 3, 2026, narrowly defeating the 2-1 favorite, Lush Lips (GB), by a nose in an exciting photo finish. Ridden by Hall of Fame jockey John Velazquez and trained by dual Hall of Famer Mark Casse, the 4-year-old daughter of Classic Empire secured her second Grade 1 victory of the year.
Race Details & Key Metrics
- Race / Grade: First Lady Stakes (Grade 1)
- Date: October 3, 2026
- Location: Keeneland (Lexington, KY)
- Distance & Track: 1 Mile (Firm Turf)
- Winning Time: 1:35.89
- Margin of Victory: By a nose
- Purse: $800,000
Connections & Pedigree
• Jockey: John Velazquez
• Trainer: Mark E. Casse
• Owners: Gary Barber, Blue Crevalle Racing (Hugh Dailey), and Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners
• Breeder: Winning Bloodstock
• Sire & Dam: Classic Empire out of Lovely Em (by Scat Daddy)
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