Juddmonte’s champion mare, Idiomatic, delivered a stunning performance at Keeneland on Oct. 6, dominating the $600,000 Spinster Stakes (G1) with an impressive 6 1/2-length victory. This triumph sets her up perfectly for her title defense in the $2 million Breeders' Cup Distaff (G1) at Del Mar on Nov. 2.

"She’s such an extraordinary mare," remarked Juddmonte general manager Garrett O'Rourke, who celebrated a remarkable day for the global racing operation, with Juddmonte's Bluestocking also capturing the prestigious Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe (G1) at Longchamp.

Breaking from the rail under regular rider Florent Geroux, the 5-year-old Curlin mare quickly took command of the race, setting sharp early fractions of :23.53, :47.01, and 1:11.10. Geroux kept her composed as rivals Candied and Loved began to challenge her at the 5/16th pole.

"I was a little worried when they started closing in," trainer Brad Cox admitted. "But she maintained that big stride of hers and finished strong. Florent has ridden her enough to know when to push the button."

That moment came at the quarter pole, where Geroux let Idiomatic loose, and she effortlessly pulled away in the final furlong, surpassing last year’s Spinster win margin by 2 1/4 lengths. She also shaved 0.78 seconds off her time from the previous year, clocking 1:49.04 for the 1 1/8-mile race.

Occult made a late move to secure second place, while the 3-year-old Candied had to settle for third.

The decisive victory was a welcome rebound for Idiomatic, who had been through a series of tough races, including two narrow grade 1 losses by a head.

"If those losses had gone her way, she’d be in the conversation for Horse of the Year," Cox said. "But it’s still been a great season—she’s a multiple grade 1 winner at five, and that’s something special."

Those two head defeats in the Ogden Phipps (G1) and Personal Ensign (G1) had also cost Idiomatic an automatic spot in the Distaff. However, her Spinster win, part of the Breeders' Cup Challenge Series, has now secured her place in the prestigious race.

Cox confirmed that Idiomatic will head back to Churchill Downs for some light training before shipping to Del Mar during race week.