Just days after her repeat win in the Breeders’ Cup Filly and Mare Sprint, Groupie Doll went to the Keeneland November Sale. Trainer/owner Buff Bradley was sad to see her go, but admitted it was a necessary part of staying in business. As the champion mare was hammered down at $3.1M to Mandy Pope, Bradley extended an offer to keep the 5-year-old mare in training for one final race, the Cigar Mile. Mandy Pope purchased the mare strictly as a broodmare prospect– her Whisper Hill Farm has been snapping up high profile racemares like candy lately, including $14.2M for Harve de Grace and Plum Pretty last year. However, after seeing Groupie Doll’s many fans and discussing it with Bradley, she opened up to the idea of keeping her in training. With a thorough vet exam by Rood and Riddle’s Dr. Larry Bramlage, Groupie Doll was deemed 100% sound and fit, with no reason to retire.
Groupie Doll is back with Bradley in training at Belmont, aiming for the Nov. 30 Cigar Mile (G1). Last year, she finished second in this race against males, losing to Stay Thirsty by a nose. Win or lose, Mandy Pope deserves a lot of credit for sending the fan favorite out one more time as a final curtain call. Best of luck to Groupie Doll!
