Fondly

​Fondly, a bay filly foaled in 2022, has swiftly emerged as a prominent contender on the Road to the Kentucky Oaks. Trained by H. Graham Motion and owned by Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners, she has demonstrated exceptional talent and resilience in her nascent racing career.​

Pedigree and Early Development

Sired by Upstart out of the Istan mare Lifetime Memory, Fondly boasts a lineage rich in racing excellence. Her dam, Lifetime Memory, has produced multiple winners, including Antiquarian, the 2024 Grade 3 Peter Pan Stakes victor. Bred in Kentucky by Brereton C. Jones, Fondly was acquired for $50,000 at the 2023 Fasig-Tipton Kentucky Fall Yearling Sale. ​

Racing Career

Fondly made an impressive debut on February 14, 2025, at Tampa Bay Downs, securing a four-length victory in a seven-furlong maiden special weight race. This dominant performance prompted her connections to ambitiously enter her in stakes company for her subsequent start. ​

Virginia Oaks Triumph

On March 15, 2025, Fondly contested the $250,000 Virginia Oaks at Colonial Downs, a newly minted qualifier on the Road to the Kentucky Oaks. Despite her limited experience, she displayed remarkable tenacity, tracking the early pace set by Anonima before launching a determined stretch run. Under jockey Irad Ortiz Jr., Fondly outdueled her rivals to claim a half-length victory, earning 50 qualifying points toward the Kentucky Oaks. ​

Looking Ahead

With her Virginia Oaks victory, Fondly has secured a prominent position on the Kentucky Oaks leaderboard. Trainer Graham Motion expressed optimism about her potential, noting her rapid progression and resilience. As preparations intensify for the Kentucky Oaks, Fondly's connections will likely target key prep races to further hone her skills and readiness for the prestigious event.

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Fondly stretches out and remains perfect in the Virginia Oaks! Onto the Kentucky Oaks! 🌷@grahammotion trains and @iradortiz was aboard!

🎥 TwinSpiresReplay pic.twitter.com/pcacBTugQL

— TwinSpires Racing 🏇 (@TwinSpires) March 15, 2025