Off the Tracks Set for Return Feb. 21

J. Stables' undefeated grade III winner Off the Tracks makes her long-awaited return to the races Feb. 21 in the $65,000 Margate Stakes for 3-year-old fillies at Gulfstream Park.

The 6 1/2-furlong Margate, which also attracted multiple stakes-winning Florida-bred Ballet Diva and grade I-placed Tap to It in her sophomore debut, serves as the feature on Sunday's 11-race card.

Based at Gulfstream Park West with trainer Roderick Rodriguez, Off the Tracks won her only two starts at 2, including a 4 1/4-length maiden victory last June at Gulfstream. She followed up the next month, when she sat just off the early pace, took the lead at the top of the stretch, rolled home a 3 1/4-length winner of the Schuylerville (gr. III) at Saratoga Race Course.

NOVAK: Off the Tracks Soars in Schuylerville Stakes

"We always knew she had ability and she showed it that day. We are expecting big things from her this year," Rodriguez said. "We're ready to get her started on her way back to the races. She's doing well."

A bay daughter of two-time Horse of the Year Curlin  , Off the Tracks exited the Schuylerville with a knee injury that required surgery and she didn't return to training until joining Rodriguez in December.

She shows three timed breezes at Gulfstream Park West since Jan. 30, most recently five furlongs in 1:02 4/5 from the gate Feb. 13.

"She has a physical presence. She looks like a colt," Rodriguez said. "She's very powerful, she has a long stride, and she has the heart. She doesn't want to get beat. She doesn't like to see another horse in front of her. Hopefully she keeps that attitude."

Rodriguez is hoping to use the Margate as a prep for the $250,000 Gulfstream Park Oaks (gr. II) at 1 1/16 miles April 2.

"Before the injury we were looking at the Spinaway (gr. I) and then the Breeders' Cup," Rodriguez said. "We're pretty excited to have her back for the races. As long as she runs good and comes out of it good, we're probably looking at the Oaks here and then more to come. Hopefully she runs well, she stays healthy, and we have a good campaign with her."

Edgard Zayas, aboard for the maiden victory, gets a return call from post seven of eight at co-highweight of 120 pounds.