Saratoga Springs, NY – Island Bouhinia A (Betting Line) came into Sunday’s (Feb. 15) feature having been the runner-up in the Fillies and Mares Open in three of her last five starts dating back to last year. On Sunday, the 7-year-old distaffer drew the rail in pursuit of her first ever win in the ladies’ Open and had Jacob Cutting at the controls for her try in the $16,500 feature.
Island Bouhinia A sat the pocket in a race where the pacesetter sizzled through a first half in :55.4. Last week’s Open winner Waitforever N (Leon Bailey) charged after the leader and began to wear her down at the head of the stretch. Just then, Island Bouhinia A found open road in the passing lane and began her charge up the rail. The Amanda Kelley trainee got up in time to win it in 1:55 while Waitforever N continued her strong stretch to begin the 2026 season with a pair of runner-up tries to go with last week’s Open victory. Longshot Perfect Queen (Matt Athearn) earned the show spot in Sunday’s feature.
Island Bouhinia A is owned in partnership by Sartin Racing and S&K Misfit Racing Stables. Jacob Cutting piloted a pair of winners on the matinee card.
Live racing continues on Monday (Feb. 16) with a President’s Day matinee that begins at 12 p.m. EST.