Thoroughbred racing's leading ladies return to the track tonight, with 2009 Horse of the Year Rachel Alexandra making her debut in New Orleans while Zenyatta revisits the scene

of her now legendary Breeders' Cup triumph in California.

Both Rachel Alexandra and Zenyatta are preparing for a possible first-time encounter in the $5 million Apple Blossom Invitational at Oaklawn Park in Arkansas, set for April 9.

On Saturday, Rachel Alexandra takes to the dirt in the $200,000 New Orleans Ladies' Stakes. That race goes off at 6:15 p.m. EST. Approximately 25 minutes later, Zenyatta lines up against eight fillies and mares in the $250,000 Santa Margarita Handicap over 1 1-8 miles on Santa Anita's synthetic surface.

Jockey Mike Smith is hoping to watch Rachel Alexandra's race before he heads out to ride Zenyatta.

"I'm a big fan of hers, too. I hope she runs well and we do meet in Arkansas," Smith told the Associated Press. "It's going to be one of the most watched races in history if we're both lucky enough to get there."

HPItv is carrying the Saturday cards for both Fair Grounds and Santa Anita, and the NTRA is carrying both races live on their website.

(with files from AP)