The Gallorette Stakes (G3) at Pimlico on Preakness Day witnessed an electrifying start when Charlene’s Dream charged to victory, announcing her return to racing with style and dominance. Under a tactically brilliant ride by Umberto Rispoli, the 4-year-old filly outran expectations and competitors alike to clinch her first graded stakes title in a commanding front-running performance.
Returning to action after a lengthy 249-day break, Charlene’s Dream wasted no time making her presence felt. Breaking sharply, she seized the lead early and dictated the pace throughout the 1 1/16-mile turf contest. Her performance was as smooth as it was powerful, never facing a serious challenge as she cruised past the wire nearly four lengths ahead in 1:46.92 on a turf course labeled good. The upset victory returned $18.20 to her backers, as she was sent off at odds of 8-1, the longest shot in the eight-horse lineup.
Trainer Ed Moger Jr. praised her versatility and confidence heading into the race. Despite challenges in getting her into graded stakes previously, Moger always believed in her ability. That faith was rewarded as Charlene’s Dream proved herself more than ready for the big stage. Her early career successes at Golden Gate Fields and a stakes win at Horseshoe Indianapolis had hinted at her talent, but her breakout on a national level was truly realized at Pimlico.
The field featured several capable fillies, but none could match the pace set by the winner. Ocean Club tried to apply pressure early but faded in the stretch, while Austere made a valiant late run to claim second. Yet the front-running tactic left the rest of the field chasing shadows. The odds-on favorite, Way to Be Marie, settled for a minor placing behind Three Havanas and Sparkle Blue.
Jockey Umberto Rispoli credited his mount’s natural rhythm and his trainer’s instructions, saying the filly felt comfortable leading the way and showed no signs of fatigue. The filly’s size, strength, and smart temperament impressed not just her connections, but the racing community watching one of the undercard highlights of Preakness 150.
Charlene’s Dream now boasts an impressive record of five wins from eight starts, with four of those wins coming in stakes company. Her development into a top-level turf runner appears well underway, and the Gallorette may be just the beginning of a standout season.
In a day filled with prestige and history, it was Charlene’s Dream who carved out her moment in the spotlight, blending talent, training, and timing into a performance that few saw coming—but none will forget.
