On Sunday, a field of five older fillies and mares also prepping for the Breeders' Cup Distaff went to the gate in the $300,000 Ruffian Handicap (G1) over 1 1/16 miles on the main track. Take D'Tour was the narrow favorite at 3-2 over second choice Pool Land at 8-5. The pair came out of the same race, the Go For Wand at Saratoga, when Pool Land was third and Take D'Tour fourth. Also in he field was 7-2 third choice Summerly, winner of last year's Kentucky Oaks.
Take D'Tour led the field through quick fractions of 22.71, 45.79, and 1:10.38 with Pool Land stalking her a length back and just to her outside. They were as many as 5 lengths clear of the rest of the field. Turning for home, Pool Land eased up alongside the pacesetter setting up a stretch duel. Pool Land shook off Take D'Tour at the furlong pole and drew away in the final 70 yards to win by 2 lengths in 1:41.81. It was just 1/2 a length back to 6-1 Miss Shop in third, who was 5 1/4 lengths ahead of 19-1 outsider Classy Charm. Summerly raced close to the pace, was wide on the turn, and faded late to finish last.
