Apple Blossom Rematch: Majestic Oops, Nitrogen, and Regaled set for another showdown

The Oaklawn centerpiece offers a "Win and You're In" berth to the Breeders’ Cup Distaff and has drawn a powerhouse field

Nitrogen seeks redemption at Oaklawn Park / ADAM COGLIANESE / NYRA

HOT SPRINGS, AR (Special to Turf Diario)— Rematches always carry a special flavor, especially when they involve a trio of fillies that delivered a high-level performance just weeks ago. Saturday’s $1.25 million Apple Blossom Handicap (G1) at Oaklawn Park brings Majestic Oops (Majestic Harbor), Regaled (Mohaymen), and Nitrogen (Medaglia d'Oro) back to the starting gate for a clash that now carries an even higher stakes: for the first time, the 1 1/16-mile event serves as a "Win and You’re In" qualifier for the Breeders' Cup Distaff (G1).

In their March 7 meeting in the Azeri Stakes (G2), Majestic Oops pulled off the upset with a wide, sweeping rally to win by three-quarters of a length. Regaled finished a hard-charging second along the rail, while Nitrogen—the 2025 Champion 3-Year-Old Filly—faded late after appearing to have the race in hand.

The Dan Ward-trained Majestic Oops enters with a solid case, having won three of her last four starts. She remains undefeated in partnership with jockey Francisco Arrieta. "I have a lot of confidence when he's aboard; he knows exactly how to ride her, get her to relax, and bring her with that final run," said Ward, who is seeking his first Grade 1 victory. Ward also noted that a swifter pace than seen in the Azeri should favor his closer.

Nitrogen remains the 9-5 morning-line favorite and has room for improvement. Trainer Mark Casse believes her recent defeat had a simple explanation: "She might have been a bit more tired than we thought. She’s a big filly and perhaps she just needed that race." Recent bullet works suggest she is back to peak form under Jose Ortiz.

Regaled, the second choice in the wagering, remains a serious threat after her late-closing effort in the Azeri. The field is packed with early speed, including Dazzling Move (Not This Time), Five G (Vekoma), and Blue Fire (Aurelius Maximus), which should set the table for the closers. The deep lineup is completed by Royal Delta (G3) winner Claret Beret, California shipper Om N Joy, and the consistent Nerazurri.