Longines Kentucky Oaks (Grade I) winner Serengeti Empress is ready for her showdown versus 2019 Champion Midnight Bisou in Saturday's $200,000 Fleur de Lis presented by Coca-Cola (GII) at Churchill Downs – a Breeders' Cup “Win and You're In Distaff Division” race.
“If you want to talk about a challenge, this is it,” trainer Tom Amoss said. “We face a challenge with champion Midnight Bisou. We have great respect for her but we also have a ton of confidence in our filly. Her preparation has been great for this race and we'll be ready.”
The speedy Serengeti Empress led every step of the way in last year's Kentucky Oaks. The daughter of Alternation's 3-year-old campaign included a narrow runner-up effort in the $500,000 Test (GI) and third-place finish in the Longines Distaff. In her 4-year-old campaign, Serengeti Empress was a convincing 6 ¼-length winner of the March 14 Azeri (GII).
All horses will tote 120 pounds except Midnight Bisou and Serengeti Empress who will carry 124.
The Fleur de Lis – which means “Flower of the Lily” and honors the French symbol that is incorporated into the city of Louisville's Flag – will be run as Race 9 at 5:15 p.m. (all times Eastern). It will be televised live on NBC from 5-6 p.m.
The post Serengeti Empress Up For The ‘Challenge,’ Faces Off With Midnight Bisou In Fleur De Lis appeared first on Horse Racing News | Paulick Report.
