The debut “TDN Rising Star” Essential Quality backed up his impressive maiden-breaking score with an even more spectacular victory in the Claiborne Breeders’ Futurity (G1) on opening weekend at Keeneland. He is TAPIT‘s 26th Grade 1 winner, more than any other sire on the general sire list.
The Godolphin homebred, trained by Brad Cox, was sent off as the favorite in this Breeders’ Cup “Win and You’re in” qualifying race. Piloted by Luis Saez, Essential Quality stalked the lively pace and took over in the far turn, widening his advantage throughout the stretch to win by over three lengths.
Essential Quality is out of the graded stakes-placed Elusive Quality mare Delightful Quality – herself a half sister to Champion 2-year-old filly Folklore.
Essential Quality highlights a sensational 2-year-old crop by leading sire TAPIT. To date, over half of his juvenile starters are winners, seven graduating impressively on debut, including three “TDN Rising Stars”. TAPIT has over 14% graded stakes horses amongst his juvenile starters, additionally noting Grade 2 winner Thoughtfully and Grade 1-placed Seasons.