Yaupon first-timer proves best in tough Saratoga maiden special weight

Leading First-Crop sire Yaupon got his seventh winner on July 19 at Saratoga when Emphasis won a six-furlong maiden special weight race for 2-year-olds by a length over a highly-regarded group of juveniles.

Emphasis, in post 4, broke well and made the lead after a contentious start. He led through a quarter-mile in :22.87 and had a narrow advantage over Handsome Linc as they turned for home. In midstretch, Emphasis began to edge clear, then safely held off Growth Equity and Stradale to finish in 1:11.83 on a fast track.

Trained by Todd Pletcher, Emphasis is owned by Spendthrift Farm and Repole Stable and sold to his owners for $625,000 at the 2024 Keeneland September Yearling sale. The winner was bred in Kentucky by Betz/J.Betz/Burns/B & K Canetti/C.Kidder/et al. Emphasis is a half-brother to Iroquois S. (G3) winner Curly Jack, while dam Connie and Michael’s siblings include graded stakes winners High Ridge Road and Senor Rojo.

In addition to leading the First-Crop Sire list by more than $250,000 in progeny earnings, Yaupon is the sire of two-time stakes winner Sassy C W.