Thoroughbred trainer Steve Asmussen has said that his star filly Rachel Alexandra will not be able to compete for a possible $5 million purse in Oaklawn Park's Apple Blossom Handicap. Although, Rachael Alexandra's owner, Jess Jackson, has apparently been in talks which could lead to something much bigger for the sport

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An article by nytimes.com cites Asmussen stating that, in the best interest of all involved, Rachael Alexandra cannot compete for a bloated purse in the Apple Blossom due to timing.

“Out of respect for the level of competition and the importance of this race, I have told Mr. Jackson it was not in the best interest of the horse to race on April 3,” Asmussen said via news release. “Getting to this level of fitness after a six-month layoff takes time."

According to the article, Jackson has said that he has been in talks with Alex Waldrop, the president and chief executive of the National Thoroughbred Racing Association, to create a three-race series between the spring and November for Rachel Alexandra and fellow superstar filly Zenyatta.

“Everyone wants to see Rachel race against Zenyatta — including me,” said Jackson, who went on to say that he would like to see a Rachael Alexandra-Zenyatta match-up many times this year.

(With files from nytimes.com)

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