In a gritty stretch duel over Laurel Park’s muddy, sealed track, Worcester surged late to capture the $100,000 Frank Y. Whiteley Stakes on April 12. Trained by Brittany Russell, Worcester rallied from off the pace and muscled his way past stablemate New King in the final sixteenth to secure a 1½-length victory in the seven-furlong contest.

Breaking from post 3 under jockey Sheldon Russell, Worcester was unhurried early, tracking the pace in sixth while racing wide. He steadily rounding the turn, angled out five-wide into the lane, and dueled with the front-running New King—eventually brushing with his rival before pulling clear in the final seventy yards. The final time was 1:24.38 over a sealed muddy surface.

This win marks Worcester’s fourth career victory from 13 starts, pushing his earnings to over $270,000. Since transferring to Brittany Russell’s barn, the son of Empire Maker has blossomed—winning three of five starts under her care.

New King ran a game second, third early and fending off other challengers before ultimately yielding late. Seven’s Eleven finished a determined third after pressing the early pace. Post time favorite Bartlett led early but faded to finish last.

Worcester was bred in Kentucky by Jerry Dixon Revocable Trust & EmpireMaker Syndicate and is owned by a powerhouse partnership including SF Racing LLC, Starlight Racing, Madaket Stables, and others.

At odds of 2.10-1, Worcester returned $6.20 to win. The exacta with New King (6.60-1) paid $16.20, while the $1 trifecta with Seven’s Eleven ($17.10) returned $132.20.