William M. Backer Stakes Archives • The Racing Biz

Hodsdon gets first stakes win as Sweet Sandy upsets Backer Stakes

Frank Vespe / 9 years

6 min read

A series of 50-50 calls that worked out led Sweet Sandy to the winner’s circle — and trainer Danielle Hodsdon to her first stakes win — Saturday.

Arnaud Delacour
Hansel S.
Maryland horse racing
Michael Matz
Queen Caroline
Special Envoy
William M. Backer Stakes

Special Envoy, Queen Caroline look to double up in Va-bred stakes

Press Release / 9 years
0
6 min read

Special Envoy and Queen Caroline proved best in a pair of Virginia-bred stakes at Laurel Park in June and will try to reprise those efforts on Saturday.

Iron Honor gets nod as Preakness favorite

Lingering foot bruise knocks Silent Tactic out of Preakness

Braken Poppa gets class test in Black-Eyed Susan

For Foster, Planet Clare a win that meant a little more

Mid-Atlantic three stars: May 11, 2026

Napoleon Solo is third Preakness horse at Laurel

Hodsdon gets first stakes win as Sweet Sandy upsets Backer Stakes

Special Envoy, Queen Caroline look to double up in Va-bred stakes

Iron Honor gets nod as Preakness.

For Foster, Planet Clare a win.

Napoleon Solo is third Preakness horse.

For Whit Beckman, a “surreal” Derby.

Ryan’s Run draws in, draws off.

Busy Saturday for Preakness contenders