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Finger Lakes |
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10/4/08, Legal Consent rallies to take 46th running of $318,525 New York Breeders' Futurity by Matt Church
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 Photo: Tom Cooley Photography |
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LEGAL
CONSENT
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Lansdon B. Robbins lll's LEGAL CONSENT collared stablemate Dagnabit in midstretch and then drew off to capture the 46th running of the richest New York Breeders' Futurity in history by three lengths.Trained by Carlos Martin, Legal Consent finished a solid second to runaway winner Haynesfield in his debut at Belmont Park going six and one-half furlongs by four and one-half lengths. Today's contest atsix furlongs was restricted to two year olds bred in New York State with the entry of Dagnabit and Legal Consent the odds on favorite at 1 to 2. Dagnabit trained by Richard E. Dutrow Jr, came into the race undefeated and was clearly the one to beat. The two year old colt by Freud scored in his debut at Belmont Park by a length and one-half while stopping the five furlong distance in 59.08. The Lansdon B. Robbins lll owned runner came right back in the wide-open $100,000 Tremont to get the money by a half length at 4 to 1 going five and one-half furlongs. Dagnabit shipped in here for $144,000 Aspirant Stakes and wired a field of 7 going six furlongs by five and one-half lengths while never being asked by Eibar Coa. While the entry was taking all the money, Mother Russia was the second choice at $2.70 to 1. Trained by Linda Rice, Mother Russia was also coming into this race with an unblemished record. The two year filly by Mayakovsky bested a group of state-bred maiden allowance rivals at Saratoga going five and one-half furlongs by five lengths. Mother Russia shipped in here and got the money in the 6 furlong $157,000 Lady Fingers Stakes by just less than a length as the 1 to 2 chalk. Dagnabit with Mario Madrid in the saddle rushed out and contested the lead and got the opening quarter in a very quick 21.88. Lookin At Her and Dagnabit matched strides on the turn while getting the half mile in 45.30 and a length and one-half cushion over Gold for the Queen. Meanwhile, Legal Consent was taking the overland route and gaining with every stride. Dagnabit disposed of Look At Her nearing the eighth pole but Legal Consent was to the outside and in gear. Legal Consent responded to Dennis Carr's whip and the duo drew off to score by three lengths and take the $191,115 winners share. Dagnabit finished well to secure the place over Mother Russia in third. Legal Consent covered the distance over a fast track in 1:11.59 and returned $3.20. Bred by his owner, the two year old son of Officer out of Flame Trick by Mt. Livermore now has $200,315 in earnings and also qualified for $10,000 breeders' awards.
10/3/08, $318,525 New York Breeders' Futurity preview by David Mattice
FARMINGTON, N.Y. Đ Dagnabit is the even-money morning line favorite for the 46th renewal of the New York BreedersŐ Futurity which is scheduled to be run on Saturday at Finger Lakes Gaming and Racetrack. The undefeated colt will battle ten other New York-bred 2-year-olds in the six furlong sprint. The $318,525 estimated purse for the event is the largest in the history of the Western New York track.
Dagnabit scored a five and one-half length victory in the $144,213 Aspirant Stakes on September 1 at Finger Lakes. The $179,108 earner owned by Lansdon Robbins and Thomas Hansen was under the wraps of jockey Rudy Rodriguez during the final stages of the Labor Day stake. He also won the $100,000 Tremont Stakes at Belmont Park on June 29. He prepared for SaturdayŐs eighth race with a bullet workout in 1:01.47 for five furlongs over the Saratoga training track on September 30. Jockey Mario Madrid will be aboard for trainer Richard Dutrow, Jr. who saddled last yearŐs winner By the Light. Dagnabit will run as a part of a coupled entry with Legal Consent.
Mother Russia will also make her second appearance at Finger Lakes after winning the $156,612 Lady Finger Stakes on September 1. The Linda Rice-trainee will attempt to make it the second consecutive year that a filly emerges victorious against the boys in the New York BreedersŐ Futurity. The unbeaten filly owned by Obviously New York Stable will be under the direction of jockey Michael Luzzi.
10/3/08, Desert Scents ships in and takes $21,000 feature by Matt Church
John
Caputo's DESERT SCENTS shipped in here from Saratoga and rallied to best
a field of NW1X by almost two lengths. Trained by Oscar S. Barrera Jr, Desert
Scents was coming out of an off the turf race going one mile and one-sixteenth
where she finished fourth to Luck. Two races back, the three year old filly
by Desert Warrior rallied to best a field of 6 wide-open never won two $35,000
claimers at Belmont Park going one mile by a length and one-half. Today's race
carrying a purse of $21,000 was restricted to fillies and mares which had never
won a state-bred race other than going one mile and seventy yards. Eight rival
were ready to go with Desert Scents the 8 to 5 favorite. Also getting respect
at the windows at $3.25 to 1 was Westmoreland Racing Stable's Chestertown. Trained
by Karl M. Grusmark, Chestertown finished second twice in her last three starts
with never won three allowance types. Her most recent race was at the same distance
she's going today. In that test, Chestertown tracked Lovely Daniella throughout
and then moved to challenge in midstretch but could not sustain the bid and
finished second beaten four and one-half lengths. Idon'tlikeanyone broke in
stride and opened up a quick five length lead while getting the opening quarter
in 23.53. Idon'tlikeanybody put ten lengths over Classic Cathy with the half
mile clocked in 46.45 and then stopped the timer for six furlongs in 1:12.25.
Chestertown was tracking and gaining with every stride while Desert Scents began
to make her five wide move. Chestertown took the lead with a furlong to go with
Desert Scents and Western only a length back. Desert Scents responded to Dennis
Carr's whip and the pair drew clear late to get the money by a length and three-quarters.
Chestertown finished second by three and one-half lengths over Western who hung
in the crucial stages. Desert Scents covered the distance over a sloppy sealed
track in 1:46.40 and earned $12,600. Bred by her owner, the three year old filly
by Desert Warrior out of Forty Nine Scents by Tactical Advantage now has three
career wins out of 14 tries and $81,362 in money won. Also, the home-bred runner
qualified for $2,520 in breeders' awards.
10/2/08, Lt. Josef scores in $20,500 NW1X feature by Matt Church
Miller
Farm's recently claimed for $4,000 LT. JOSEF closed determinedly tobest
Video Chip in today's $20,500 featured seventh race by a half length.Trained
by James Miller Pettine, Lt. Josef finished well to get the placebehind Ivan's
Song in his last going five and one-half furlongs on September19. Lt. Josef
has tried this NW1X condition four times this year with hisbest performance
a second place finish to Look Out Austin at 21 to 1.Today's race at five and
one-half furlongs was restricted to three year oldsand upward which had never
won a state-bred race other than. Eight rivalswere set to break from the starting
gate with Langpap Stable's Barossa the$1.55 to 1 favorite. Trained by M. Anthony
Ferraro, Barossa has been awaysince running second to Lake Butler on August
12. Two races before that, the three year old colt by Langfuhr finished a respectable
fourth in the $50,000 Ontario County Stakes at six furlongs. Video Chip with
Chin Yang up, ducked in sharply at the start slamming Waltz to the Blues and
then got the opening fraction in 22.24. Consigliere Jeff was stalking a length
back and to the outside was Barossa while Lt. Josef was saving ground. The half
mile was clocked in 45.61. Video Chip opened up a length and one-half with a
furlong to go. Lt. Joseph was making up ground while Barossa was hanging. Video
Chip was collared by Lt. Josef in deep stretch and then bested the latter for
a half length decision. Barossa lasted for the show spot. Lt. Josef covered
the distance over a good track in 1:05.00 and earned $12,300. Bred by Thomas/Lakin,
the four year old gelding by Good and Tough out of Alheyrah(GB) by $Ezzoud(IRE)
now has five career wins out of 28 starts and $57,471 in money won. Also, the
nicely claimed for $4,000 runner qualified for $2,460 in breeders' awards.
9/30/08, Oedipus O'Neal ships in and gets the money in $21,800 feature by Matt Church
Winning
Move Stable's OEDIPUS O'NEAL move to tackle the leaders at the top of
the lane and under the whip woredown Sizzling Saint to take today's $21,800
featured eighth race by a head. Trained by Gary C. Contessa, Oedipus O'Neal
was coming off a game score in his most recent on September 7 at Belmont Park.
That race was for conditioned allowance state-breds or if carrying a $25,000
claming tag at one mile where Oedipus O'Neal battled through the stretch and
got the job done by a half length over Endless Circle. Today's contest at one
mile and seventy yards was restricted to three year olds and upward which had
never won three state-bred races other than or if entered with a $25,000 claiming
tag. Only six rivals went to the post with Oakwood Stable's Rises the Phoenix
the $1.20 to 1 choice. Rises to Phoenix was shipped to Saratoga and ran in an
overnight handicap for state-breds at one mile and one-eighth were he finished
sixth beaten just over twenty lengths. Prior to getting dusted at the Spa, Rises
to Phoenix had won four of his last six starts including the $50,000 Wadsworth
Handicap on Independence Day. Large Popcorn a local favorite, quickly established
the lead while getting the opening quarter in 24.08. The Amy Feathers Murray
trained speedster continued on the Bill Daily and got the half mile in 47.79
and then stopped the timer for six furlongs in 1:12.43. Sizzling Saint, Oedipus
O'Neal and Rises the Phoenix were all in a striking position with a quarter
of a mile remaining. Large Popcorn gave it up some passing the eighth pole leaving
Sizzling Saint and Oedipus O'Neal left to fight it out. Rises the Phoenix hung
while Oedipus O'Neal bested Sizzling on the line for a head score. Large Popcorn
finished a half a length to the good over Rises the Phoenix in fourth. Oedipus
O'Neal covered the distance over a sealed wet-fast track in 1:43.46 and earned
$13,080. Bred by Thomas/Lakin, the five year old son of Freud
out of Precious Choice by Jade Hunter now has six career wins out of 29 starts
and a whopping $285,439 in money won. Also, the money making running machine
qualified for $2,616 in breeders' awards.
9/29/08, Private Screening earns diploma for fun in wide-open $19,500 "MSW" by Matt Church
Gary
Juster and Nick Sallusto's PRIVATE SCREENING grabbed the lead from the
outset and never looked back to taketoday's wide-open $19,500 "MSW" by an impressive
fifteen and one-quarter lengths. Trained by John P. Terranova ll,Private Screening
was shipping in from Belmont Park after finishing sixth with state-bred maiden
allowance foes at onemile over the grass. Prior to that effort, the two year
filly by Mayakovsky showed some early speed over the lawn atSaratoga on August
27 but faded to finish eighth to Our Golden Dream. Today's contest going one
mile and seventy yardswas for wide-open two year old fillies with Private Screening
the 1 to 2 chalk. Also taking plenty action at thewindows at $3.15 to 1 was
Delaware Park invader She's an Optimist. She's an Optimist was bred in Argentina
and has twostarts under her belt. In her debut over the lawn at Delaware Park
going one mile on August 8, She's an Optimisttrailed throughout at odds of 9
to 1. She came back with $25,000 claimers going one mile over a wet-fast track
andfinished a respectable third to Annika Girl at 4 to 1. Private Screening
with Dennis Carr up, broke in stride andquickly put two lengths over Tappedoutneedshoes
with the first quarter clocked in 24.09. Private Screening continued ondictating
the pace with the half mile clicked off in 48.85 and then stopped the timer
for six furlongs in 1:14.09 and an impressive eight length lead. Meanwhile,
Today was making up some ground along with She's an Optimist. Private Screening
widened to a 14 length lead in midstretch and then coasted home to get the money
with a better than 13 length decision. Today finished well to take the place
by five lengths over Itscooltobesmall in third. Private Screening covered the
distance over a fast track in 1:47.14 and earned $11,700. Bred by Philip Birsh,
the two year daughter of Mayakovsky
out of Nice Touch by Pleasant Tap now has $13,030 in money won and also qualified
for $1,170 in breeders' awards.
9/27/08, Good Law hangs on to win $21,400 feature by Matt Church
Michael
Anania's GOOD LAW circled rivals to take the lead into the lane and then
narrowly turned back Majestic Joy to take today's featured eighth race by a
nose. Trained by James S. Acquilano, Good Law was coming off a rallying three
and one-half length score over a field of 7 NW1X going one mile and one-sixteenth.
Good Law shipped in here last spring from Belmont Park and immediately found
the winners circle when the three year old gelding by Good and Tough closed
fast to score by just over a length with never won two allowance types. Today's
test was going one mile and seventy yards and restricted to three year olds
and upward which had never won two state-bred races other than or entered for
a $10,000 claming tag. Seven rivals including the Michael S. Ferraro's .30 cents
on the dollar trained entry of Too Drunk to Call and Majestic Joy. Too Drunk
to Call shipped in here from Belmont Park and has two fourth place finishes
with similar. On the other hand, Majestic Joy has been knocking at the door
with two solid runner-up performances and they both deserve to be the chalk.
Too Drunk to Call broke well and got the opening fraction in 23.53 and then
stopped the timer for the half mile in 47.59. Good Law made his move leaving
the backstretch and circled foes on the turn while getting the six furlongs
in 1:12.97. Good Law entered the lane with a length and one-half cushion but
Majestic Joy was ready to pounce. Majestic Joy was gaining with every stride
but ran out of real-estate and missed by a nose. Prolific Appeal finished almost
six lengths back in third. Good Law covered the distance over a fast track in
1:44.09 and earned $12,840. Bred by Past Due Farm, the three year old gelding
by Good and Tough out of Above Reproach by Crafty Prospector now has four career
wins out of 12 starts and $55.082 in money won. Also the good now runner qualified
for $$2,568 in breeders' awards.
9/26/08, Hidden Expense scores in $20,900 NW2X feature by Matt Church
My
Purple Haze Stable's HIDDEN EXPENSE took over in upper stretch and in
a hand ride proved best in today's $20,900 featured eighth race by two and one-half
lengths. Hidden Expense's score gave trainer Richard Shaffer his first career
win. Hidden Expense was coming off a pair of runner-up finishes with similar
and at the same six furlong distance. Prior to those hard knocking second place
finishes, the four year old gelded son of Sea of Secrets rallied to best a field
of 8 NW1X at five and one-half furlongs by a length. Today's featured event
was contested at six furlongs and for three year olds and upward which had never
won two state-bred races other than or entered for a claiming tag of $10,000.
Seven rivals were at the starting gate with Hidden Expense the $1.30 to 1 favorite.
Also taking action at $3.05 to 1 was Thomas S. McCooey Jr's trained Beijing
House. Beijing House shipped over here from Suffolk Downs and trounced a field
of never won three allowance types two races back with a wire-to-wire three
length tally. Beijing House was shipped back to Suffolk Downs and showed speed
to the lane with wide-open NW2X at six furlongs and then faded to run last.
Beijing House bobbled some at the start and then was sent to the Bill Daily
by Omar Camejo. The opening quarter was clocked in 22.74. Hidden Expense, You
Willgo Broke and Barco were all chasing on the turn. Hidden Expense and You
Willgo Broke collared Beijing House at the top of the lane while stopping the
timer for the half mile in 46.65. Hidden Expense disposed of his field in midstretch
and went on in a hand ride to get the money by two and one-half lengths. Despite
lacking room from the quarter pole to the three-sixteenths pole, Burn One Turn
One finished in good order to best Barco by three-quarters of a length to earn
the place. Hidden Expense covered the distance over fast track in 1:12.26 and
earned $12,540. Bred by Thomas/Lakin/Kintz, the four year old gelding by Sea
of Secrets out of Yamila's Jewels by Cox's Ridge now has five career wins out
of 18 tries and $97,239 in money won. Also, the good now runner qualified for
$1,254 in breeders' awards.
9/25/08, Let's Go Yankees upsets at 7 to 1 in wide-open $17,100 feature by Matt Church
Sanford
H. Robbins LLC and P and D Kaplan Racing's LET'S GO YANKEES forced his
way between foes at the sixteenth pole and closed determinedly while out running
Beyond Challenge to the wire to take today's wide-open featured eighth race
by a nose. Trained by M. Anthony Ferraro, Let's Go Yankees was shipping from
Belmont Park where he finished seventh with never won two races at six furlongs
with $15,000 claiming tags. Let's Go Yankee got his maiden tally with $35,000
state-bred claimers on July 16 going six furlongs as the 9 to 5 favorite. Today's
test at six furlongs was for wide-open three year olds and upward which had
never won two races. Eight rivals were set start with Suzann Bobley's Beyond
Challenge the 8 to 5 choice. Trained by George Weaver, Beyond Challenge was
also shipping in but from Saratoga. The three year old gelded son of Flatter
last raced over the grass with NW1X state-breds going five and one-half furlongs
where he finished eighth to Iron Curtin. Prior to that race, Beyond Challenge
finished a respectable fourth to the highly regarded Rollers over the main track
at the Spa. Bluespowerhouse, Narration and Tough Negotiations were heads apart
with the first quarter clicked off in a very quick 22.17. Narration dropped
back some on the turn with Tough Negotiations and Bluespowerhouse getting the
half mile in 45.43. Meanwhile Beyond Challenge and Let's Go Yankees had about
6 to 8 lengths to make-up. Beyond Challenge was angled to the outside for the
drive while Let's Go Yankee was eased out from the rail. Tough Negotiations
and Bluespowerhouse had to be getting a bit tired with such quick early fractions
under them. Let's Go Yankees split foes at the sixteenth pole making it tight
on Narration while Beyond Challenge appeared to be in gear on the outside. Let's
Go Yankees responded to pressure and beat Beyond Challenge to the wire for a
nose decision. Bluespowerhouse bested Tough Negotiations for the show spot.
Let's Go Yankees escaped a stewards inquiry while getting the distance over
a fast track in 1:11.95. Bred by Red Storm Stable Inc., the three year old son
of Aptitude out of Nasranian Devil by Silver Ghost now has two career wins out
of only 6 starts and $34,650 in money won. Also, the fast closing runner qualified
for $1,026 in breeders' awards.
9/23/08, Your Hour's Up proves best in $21,000 feature by Matt Church
My
Purple Haze Stable's YOUR HOUR'S UP rallied to take the lead in midstretch
and then despite drifting out through the final yards turned back Extreme Speed
to take today's featured seventh race by three-quarters of a length. Trained
by Chris Englehart, Your Hour's Up closed well with similar going one mile and
one-sixteenth to run second to runaway winner Good Law. Today's contest at one
mile and seventy yards was restricted to three year olds and upward which had
never won a state-bred race other than. Six rivals were set to go with Redan
the $1.25 to 1 choice. Redan, trained by Michael A. Lecesse showed the way in
her his last two starts with NW1X around two turns but faded in both races to
run fifth and a third. Prior to those two fading races, Redan took a field of
seven never won three allowance rivals wire-to-wire while posting a two one-quarter
length tally. Your Hour's Up with John Davila Jr aboard was let go at $1.40
to 1. Redan was sent to the front by John Grabowski and the pair got the first
quarter in 24.71 with Lovely Lyndsey stalking. Redan continued on the dictating
the fractions with the half mile clocked in 49.58 and then stopped the timer
for six furlongs in 1:14.27. Meanwhile, Your Hour's Up was gaining with every
stride and had a length and one-half to make-up with two furlongs to go. Your
Hour's Up collared Redan in midstretch and looked like he was going to draw
off for fun. But, from the back of the pack, Extreme Speed was searching for
room and found it. Extreme Speed rallied while Your Hour's Up was drifting out
and could only get within three-quarters of a length of victory. Cryaletha was
never in it until the wire while missing his win picture by only a length. Your
Hour's Up covered the distance over a fast track in 1:45.41 and earned $12,600.
Bred by Thomas/Lakin, the four year old colt by Freud
out of Gray Lady by Lady Type now has four career wins out of 20 starts and
$124,925 in money won. Also, the Englehart trained runner qualified for $1,260
in breeders' awards.
9/22/08, Miss Vanity wires 7 in $20,500 NW1X feature by Matt Church
My
Purple Haze Stable's MISS VANITY quickly disposed of her field and made
every pole a winning one to take today's $20,500 featured seventh race by three
lengths. Trained by leading conditioner Chris Englehart, Miss Vanity had not
been seen since missing by a whisker on July 4. That test was for NW1X going
six furlongs where Miss Vanity showed her true early speed and led every step
of the way but the final one to miss by a nose. Including today's tally, Miss
Vanity has raced eight time this year with 3 wins, 2 seconds, a third and has
pocketed $44,537. Today's race was contested at five and one-half furlongs and
restricted to fillies and mares which had never won a state-bred race other
than. Seven rivals were set face each other with Very Un Stable's Amalfi Drive
and luke warm $2.10 to 1 favorite. Trained by the Wily veteran Michael S. Ferraro,
Amalfi Drive was coming off a front-running three length score over 7 never
won three allowance types going five furlongs. It appeared on paper that Miss
Vanity and Amalfi Drive would be out there fighting for the lead and then wear
each other out and set the race up for a closer. But, Miss Vanity with John
Davila Jr in the saddle, broke his mount in stride and got the opening fraction
in 22.34 and a commanding two length lead over Amalfi Drive. Amalfi Drive tracked
on the turn with Miss Vanity getting the half mile in 45.86 and a comfortable
two and one-half length cushion. Miss Vanity let Amalfi Drive get to within
a length and one-half with a furlong to go but that was as close as any rival
was going to get to the three length winner. Celtic Kettle rallied to best Amalfi
Drive to earn the place by a neck. Miss Vanity covered the distance over a fast
track in 1:05.27 and earned $12,300. Bred by A. Lakin & Sons, the four year
old filly by Siphon (BRZ) out of Stylish Indy by A. P. Indy now has three career
wins out of 21 starts and $69,422 in money won. Also, the front-running winner
qualified for $1,230 in breeders' awards.
9/20/08, Super Diva wins going away in $21,000 NW1X feature by Matt Church
Sal
Iorio Jr's owned and trained SUPER DIVA kick into gear, gained the lead
late and then drew off to take today's $21,000 featured eighth race by two and
three-quarters of a length. Ridden to victory by Elaine Castillo, Sal Iorio
Jr claimed Super Diva back on May 27 for a mere $7,500. Super Diva came right
back with never won four races carrying $12,500 claiming tags around two turns
and got the money by two and one-half lengths. Since that tally, Super Diva
had started six times with NW1X at one mile and seventy and comes into this
race with three thirds, a fourth and a fifth place finish. Today's contest was
restricted to fillies and mares which had never won a state-bred race other
than going one mile and seventy yards. Seven rivals including a Oscar Barrera
Jr trained entry of Northern Pleasure and Expensive Lover were set to go with
Kenneth L. and Sarah K. Ramsey's Classic Cathy the9 to 5 favorite. Trained by
Charlton Baker, Classic Cathy was coming off a wire-to-wire score over never
won two allowance types at one mile and seventy yards by almost two lengths.
Classic Cathy with Rodolfo Ignacio in the saddle, matched strides early with
Goodtime Love with the opening quarter clicked off in 23.39. Classic Cathy shook
free and got the half mile in 47.63 and then stopped the timer for the six furlongs
with a length and one-half lead in 1:13.67, Meanwhile, Brooke Haley was taking
up the chase while Super Diva was almost 12 lengths back in fourth. Classic
Cathy maintained a length lead over Brooke Haley and only three lengths over
the fast closing Super Diva. Super Diva collared Classic Cathy in gear and then
drew off to score by almost two three lengths. Brooke Haley nosed out Classic
Cathy for the place. Super Diva covered the distance over a fast track in 1:45.67
and earned $12,600. Bred by Past Due Farm and Philip Teinowitz, the five year
old mare by Cryptoclearance out of Above Reproach by Crafty Prospector now has
three career wins out of 37 starts and $99,240 in money won. Also, the fast
closing runner qualified for $1,260 in breeders' awards.
9/19/08, Mr. Windjammer proves clearly best in $21,300 feature
Stonegate
Racing Stable's MR. WINDJAMMER collared Scary Bob leaving the eighth
pole and then drew off to capture today's $21,300 featured eighth race by almost
two lengths. Trained by Jonathan Buckley, Mr. Windjammer was coming off a rallying
head score with NW2X going six furlongs on September 2. Prior to that score,
the three year old gelded son of Regal Classic finished fourth in a seven furlong
$80,000 overnight handicap at the Saratoga on August 14. Before shipping to
the Spa, Mr. Windjammer got the money in the $50,000 Ontario County Stakes with
a fast closing one and one-half length victory over Be Bullish. Today's contest
at six furlongs was restricted to non winners of three state-bred races other
than or if entered for a claiming tag of $25,000. Six solid performers were
ready to go with Mr. Windjammer the 6 to 5 choice. Candy Stable's Scary Bob
was Mr. Windjammers main threat and the second choice at $2.60 to 1. Scary Bob
had only one race so far this year and that was on September 2 with similar
but contested at five and one-half furlongs. Trained by Chris Englehart, Scary
Bob matched strides with Rob's Boy Mat to midstretch and then faded to run fourth
to upset winner Star of Rome. Scary Bob and Rob's Boy Mat broke in stride and
the pair got the opening fraction in a very rapid 22.11. True Wood was four
lengths back in second. Scary Bob put a half length over Rob's Boy Mat with
the half mile clicked off in 45.21. Meanwhile, Mr. Windjammer was only three
and one-half lengths back in fourth. Scary Bob opened up a length and one-half
with a furlong to go but that didn't last long. Mr. Windjammer ran on by Scary
Bob like he was tied to a post and then drew off to score by a length and three-quarters.
Scary Bob finished second by three lengths over True Wood in third. Mr. Windjammer
covered the distance over a fast track in 1:10.57 and earned $12,780. Bred by
Stonebridge Farm, the three year old gelding by Regal Classic out of Royal Relic
by Colonial Affair now has six career wins out of 10 starts and $102,195 in
money won. Also, the running machine qualified for 2,556 in breeder's awards.
9/18/08, C T Chimes whistles in $22,800 "MSW"
Despite
breaking slowly, Albert V. and Joan Hanley's C T CHIMES rushed up to
take command and then widened as much the best in today's $22,800 "MSW" by just
over five lengths. Trained by Michael A. Lecesse, C T Chimes finished a solid
runner-up in his debut here on September 6 to Tell Me First. In that race, C
T Chimes came away a bit tardy and then chased through the lane to no avail
but finished clearly best of the rest by nine and one-half lengths. Today's
contest was restricted to maiden three year olds and upward going six furlongs.
The race was scratched down to four betting interests with a Daniel J. Poliziani
trained entry of Say New York Sandy and Little Daniel. C T Chimes was the odds
on chalk at $.20 cents on the dollar. The Poliziani trained entry was the second
choice at $2.70 to 1. Both parts of the entry were making there debut here with
Say New York Sandy the three year old son of Say Florida Sandy and Little Daniel
by Good and Tough. C T Chimes with Ronny Rideout aboard again, broke slow and
then was rushed to the lead while getting the opening fraction in 22.98. C T
Chimes continued on the Bill Daily with the half mile clocked in 47.06 and a
gap of two lengths back to Say New York Sandy. Meanwhile, Sixtyseven Vet was
angled to the outside and running the best of the rest. C T Chimes coasted home
in a hand ride proving the much the best by five and one-quarter lengths. Sixtyseven
Vet finished second by two and one-half lengths over Say New York Sandy in third.
C T Chimes got the distance over a fast track in 1:11.91 and earned $13,680.
Bred by Albert V. Hanley, the three year old gelding by Crafty C. T. out of
Piano Chimes by Chimes Band now has $17,480 in money won and also qualified
for the $2,736 in breeders' awards.
9/15/08, Hennessy Beauty earns diploma with a something left in $22,800 "MSW"
Albert
Fried Jr's HENNESSY BEAUTY broke in stride and made every pole a winning
one to earn her diploma in today's $22,800 "MSW" by almost seven lengths. Trained
by Charlton Baker, Hennessy Beauty had not raced since finishing last on March
1 over the inner track at Aqueduct. The three year old filly by Hennessy came
into this race with three career starts and $912 in earnings. In her three races,
the Baker trainee flashed good energy speed and on paper was clearly the one
to catch. Today's contest at five and one-half furlongs was restricted to fillies
and mares bred in the state of New York with Bruce D. Anderson's owned and trained
Highspeed Ferry the favorite at $2.05 to 1. Highspeed Ferry finished a very
respectable fourth in her career debut on September 2. The three year old filly
by Wiseman was in striking distance entering the lane but could not offer the
late needed response and missed by three and one-half lengths to Jawise. Seven
rivals were set go with Dennis Carr aboard Hennessy Beauty, got his mount on
the Bill Daily with the opening quarter clocked in 22.64. Hennessy Beauty reached
the quarter pole with a two and one-half length lead over Highspeed Ferry with
the half mile going in 46.63. Carr never really asked and opened up a five length
lead with only a furlong to go. Meanwhile, Baci a Tutti who broke slow was finding
her best stride. Also first time starter, Barry D. Brown's You'll Remember was
making her move. Hennessy Beauty coasted home to a six and three-quarter length
romp in the park with You'll Remember Me getting the place. Despite breaking
slow, Baci a Tutti finished well to earn a share. Hennessy Beauty covered the
distance over a fast track in 1:06.81 and earned $13,680. Bred by her owner,
the three year old filly by Hennessy out of Raw Beauty by Rahy now has $14,590
in money and qualified for $$1,368 in breeders' awards. Hennessy Beauty returned
$6.90.
9/13/08, Celestial Flight makes it 3 straight wins in 14th running of the $50,000 Jack Betta Be Rite Handicap
 Photo: Stephanie Van Minos/Tom Cooley |
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CELESTIAL
FLIGHT
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Francis J. Paolangeli's CELESTIAL FLIGHT closed determinedly to take the lead late and then turned back New York Citi to capture the 14th running of the $50,000 Jack Betta Be Rite Handicap by a half length. Trained by Charlton Baker, Celestial Flight was coming off a pair of impressive tallies. The five year mare by A. P. Jet came from off the pace in her last to trounce a field of 6 NW3X around two turns by just over three lengths. Prior to that performance, Celestial Flight wired a field of 6 NW2X going one mile and seventy yards by five and one-half lengths. Today's contest at one mile and one-sixteenth was restricted to fillies and mares bred in the state of New York. Carrying the highweight of 123 pounds in a field of eight was Langpap Stable's Fly To Me. Fly to Me was in search of her third straight win and was let go as the third choice at $3.75 to 1. Bet down as the luke warm choice was Carmen Sequin's Sweet Lorena at $2.15 to 1. Sweet Lorena finished a game second missing by a nose in her last despite breaking slow from the gate and spotting her field at least three lengths. Celestial Flight was the second choice at $2.65 to 1 carrying 119 pounds and Dennis Carr. Hoosick Falls, Sweet Lorena and Prom Dance were heads apart on the first turn with opening quarter clicked off in 23.36. Then the unexpected happened. Fly to Me with John Davila Jr aboard, took a bad step and was pulled up. The three pacesetters continued on dictating the pace with the half mile clocked in 46.43. Hoosick Falls dropped back leaving Sweet Lorena and Prom Dance on the Bill Daily. They got the three-quarters in 1:12.18. Meanwhile, Celestial Flight was let loose by Dennis Carr and New York Citi was finding her best. Prom Dance and Sweet Lorena reached the eighth pole together with a gap of two lengths back to Celestial Flight. Celestial Flight was gaining with every stride while New York Citi was in the center of the racing strip and rolling. Celestial Flight outran New York Citi to the line while proving best by a half length. Sweet Lorena finished third beaten a length. Celestial Flight covered the distance over a good track in 1:47.78 and earned $30,000. Bred by Lauren Kelso Canady DVM., the five year old mare by A. P. Jet out of Saratoga Isle by Erins Isle (IRE) now has seven career wins out of only 15 starts and $121,457 in money won. Also, the good now runner qualified for $6,000 in breeders' awards.
9/12/08, Sugar Slam rallies to take $20,500 NW1X feature
Patrick
R. Cannon's SUGAR SLAM closed determinedly to best Video Chip in final
yards to take today's $20,500 NW1X featured eighth race by a half length. Trained
by Eskei E. Beech, Sugar Slam has been knocking at the door with two second
place finishes in a row. Two races back, Sugar Slam came rolling with a field
of 7 NW1X going five and one-half furlongs but came up a half length short to
Barco. In his most recent test on September 8 with similar at six furlongs,
the five year old gelded son of Grand Slam, was well placed throughout and then
finished with good energy to miss by a half length to Rodeo Runner. Today's
contest at five and one-half furlongs was restricted to three year olds and
upward which had never won a state-bred race other than. Seven well matched
foes were set to start with Stephen Jacobs' owned and trained Video Chip the
luke warm favorite at $2.40 to 1. Video Chip has good early speed and showed
the way in his last two races but faltered in the late stages to run third.
Prior to those third place finishes, Video Chip rattled off two straight wins
with never won three and four races for $7,500 and $10,000 claiming tags. Video
Chip the true speed of this dash, broke quickly and got the first quarter in
22.12 with Eastlake lapped to his outside. Video Chip put Eastlake away on the
turn and got the half mile in 45.57 and a length and one-half lead with a quarter
of a mile left to run. Meanwhile, Heirloom Thief was stalking and Sugar Slam
was in striking distance in fourth. Heirloom Thief came up empty on his bid
but Sugar Slam finished full of run to nail Video Chip in the late stages while
proving best by a half length. Heirloom Thief finished three lengths back in
third. Sugar Slam covered the distance over a very sloppy track in 1:05.33 and
earned $60,305. Bred by Robert C. Baker & Howard Kaskel, the five year old gelding
by Grand Slam out of Gold 'n Sugar by Java Gold now has five career wins out
of 19 starts and $60,305 in money won. Also, the hard knocking runner qualified
for $1,230 in breeders' awards.
9/11/08, Western Lariat wires 6 in $20,500 NW1X feature
Flying
Zee Stable's WESTERN LARIAT took full of advantage of the late scratch
of Miss Vanity and wired a field of six to take today's $20,500 NW1X featured
seventh race by three-parts of a length. Part of Oscar Barrera Jr trained entry,
Western Lariat was coming off a disappointing seventh place finish in her last
with similar over a wet-fast track at five and one-half furlongs. The five year
old mare by Western Expression visited the winners circle two races back when
she wired a field of seven rivals which had never won four races carrying $10,000
claming tags. Today's contest at six furlongs was for fillies and mares which
had never won a state-bred race other than. Six rivals were set to go with Western
Lariat and stablemate Yes I May the odds on chalk at 3 to 5. Clery L Sosa's
Yes I May has run in this condition six times this year with a record of 2 thirds,
2 fourths, 2 fifths and $6,970 in earnings. Western Lariat with Dennis Carr
in the saddle, got his mount to break in stride and the pair got the opening
quarter in 22.81. Spin the Wheels was along side a half length back. Western
Lariat disposed of Spin the Wheel on the bend and reached the quarter pole a
length to good while getting the half mile in 46.43. Meanwhile, Yes I May was
fanned out five wide into the lane and being asked for her run. Western Lariat
padded her lead to two and one-half lengths with a furlong to go. Yes I May
found her best stride in the late stages and finished with good energy to come
up three-quarters of length short of victory. Despite ducking in sharply at
the start, Zip of Fools finished well to earn the show. Western Lariat covered
the distance over a fast racing strip in 1:12.77 and earned $12,300. Bred by
Flying Zee Stable, the five year old daughter of Western
Expression out of Ribboned by Well Decorated now has five career scores
out of 21 starts and $66,798 in money won. Also, the home-bred runner qualified
for $2,460 in breeders' awards.
9/9/08,Jackies Dream rallies at 12 to 1 to capture $20,900 feature
Charlton
Baker's owned and trained JACKIES DREAM responded readily and rallied
to capture today's $20,900 featured eighth race by a nose. Jackies Dream was
coming off an impressive score over a field of conditioned bottom claimers by
five lengths. The Baker trained runner covered that five and one-half furlong
distance in 1:06.29. Today's contest was restricted to fillies and mares which
had never won two state-bred races other than or entered for a claming price
of $10,000 going five and one-half furlongs. Eight rivals were set to go with
Karakorum Farm's Karakorum Ella the 7 to 5 favorite. Trained by leading conditioner
Chris Englehart, Karakorum Ella had won three out of her last five starts and
all were in wire-to-wire fashion. The five year old mare by American Standard
just beat this condition in her last by just over four lengths. The Englehart
trainee was again entered for the $10,000 claiming tag and again escaped without
and takers. A. P. Glitter broke in stride and got the first quarter in 22.11
with Karakorum Ella tracking a length back. Karakorum Ella moved to collared
A. P. Glitter at the top of the lane while stopping the timer for the half mile
in 46.29. The Englehart trained runner put a length on A. P. Glitter with a
furlong to go. Meanwhile, Jackies Dream was angled to the inside by Robert Messina
and the pair rallied to gain the lead late and then turned back Leap to Fame
to score by a whisker. Karakorum Ella finished third while missing her win picture
by a neck and a nose. Jackies Dream covered the distance over a fast track in
1:06.80 and earned $12,540. Bred by Sez Who Thoroughbreds, Inc., the six year
old mare by Rizzi out of Sweet Cali Cat by Tabasco Cat now has 8 career wins
out of 40 starts and $129,762 in money won. Also, the talented Jackies Dream
qualified for $$2,508 in breeders' awards.
9/8/08, Willy's Wicked Way romps in $21,000 NW1X feature
New
Day Racing and Jane Sessler's WILLY'S WICKED WAY was let loose by John
Davila and the pair drew off as much the best to take today's $21,000 featured
eighth race by eight and one-half lengths. Trained by Michael S. Ferraro, Willy's
Wicked Way finished a rallying runner-up in her last with wide-open $8,000 claimers
going around two turns while missing by a half length. Prior to that race, the
four year old filly by Will's Way rallied to take command leaving the eighth
pole and downed a field of never won three races carrying $7,500 claiming tags
by a widening two and one-half lengths. Today's contest was restricted to fillies
and mares which had never won a state-bred race other than going one mile and
seventy yards. Seven fillies and mares were set to go with Schifty's Angela
the odds on chalk at 4 to 5. The Michael A. Lecesse trained runner finished
second in her last two tries with similar around two turns. Prior that pair
of runner-up finishes, the four year old daughter of Intidab rallied to best
a group of never won three allowance rivals going one mile and seventy yards
by a length and one-half. Willy's Wicked Way was dismissed as the second choice
and returned $6.70. Schifty's Angela, Take the Rate and Brooke Haley rushed
out together and got the opening quarter in 25.01. The three rivals continued
on the dictating the pace up the backstretch with the half mile clicked off
in 49.46. Meanwhile, Willy's Wicked Ways was well in hand and in striking distance
leaving the backstretch. Take the Rate put a half length over Schifty's Angela
at the top of the lane with Willy's Wicked Way still in hand. The three-quarters
went down in 1:14.39. Willy's Wicked Way was cut loose by Davila and pair split
rivals with a furlong to go and then widened with every stride to win by eight
and one-half lengths. Brooke Haley finished well to earn the place over the
late running Super Diva in third. Willy's Wicked Way covered the distance over
fast track in 1:45.48 and earned $12,600. Bred by Elsway LLC., the four year
old filly by Will's Way out of Uno Dos by Two Punch now has four career wins
out of 23 starts and $63,049 in money won. Also, the good now runner qualified
for $1,260 in breeders' awards.
9/6/08, Tell Me First wires 6 in wide-open $19,000 "MSW"
Athlone
Racing's TELL ME FIRST put Zip Plus Four away leaving the backstretch
and under the whip proved best in today's wide-open $19,000 "MSW" by three lengths.
Tell Me First has three races under her belt but all were over the grass in
France. The New York bred runner made his first career start going six furlongs
as the even money favorite in a full field of 13 and finished last. The Daniel
H. Conway trainee left France with a third and fourth place finish out of three
starts and $4,523 in earnings. Tell Me First has been training exceptionally
well over this upstate oval. The three year old gelded son of Tale of the Cat
has two bullet workouts out of four listed in the program. His most recent workout
was on September 3 going three furlongs over a fast track in 36.40 breezing.
Today's contest was at six furlongs for maiden three year olds and upward with
Tell Me First the $1.25 to 1 favorite. The second choice in the wagering at
$2.55 to 1 was Susan J. Gottlieb's Zip Plus Four. Trained by Charlton Baker,
Zip Plus Four shipped in from Belmont Park and finished second in his first
trip over this oval with maiden allowance rivals on August 16. Tell Me First
and Zip Plus Four were heads apart up the backstretch and got the opening fraction
in 22.11. Zip Plus Four could not keep pace with Tell Me First and was two and
one-half lengths back in third behind C T Chimes with the half mile clocked
in 45.92. C T Chimes was angled to the outside and appeared to have dead aim
on Tell Me First with only two lengths to make-up with a furlong remaining.
Tell Me First responded to Alvarado's whip and the pair held C T Chimes safe
by three lengths. Wiseman Jack was along for a share. Tell Me First covered
the distance over sealed wet-fast surface in 1:12.16 and earned $11,400. Bred
by Daniel J. Burke, the three year old gelding by Tale of the Cat of out Regal
Ruby by Rubiano now has $15,923 in money won and also qualified for $1,140 in
breeders' awards.
9/2/08, Mr. Windjammer rallies to take $20,900 feature
Stonegate
Racing Stable's MR. WINDJAMMER rallied to collar the leaders in midstretch
and then outran Hidden Expense to capture today's $20,900 featured eighth race
by a head. Trained by Jonathan Buckley, Mr. Windjammer shipped back here after
running fourth in a $80,000 overnight handicap for state-breds going seven furlongs
at Saratoga. Prior to that race, the three year old gelded son of Regal Classic
scored in the $50,000 six furlong Ontario County Stakes by a length and one-half.
Today's contest was restricted to three year olds and upward which had never
won two state-bred races other than or entered for a claming tag of $10,000.
Seven rivals were set to go with Matties Racing Stable's Too Drunk to Call the
$1.95 to 1 favorite. Trained today by Michael S. Ferraro, Too Drunk to Call
has not started since finishing fifth in a condition allowance optional claiming
test going seven furlongs at Belmont Park on May 3. Too Drunk to Call comes
into the this dash with a record of 4 wins, 5 seconds, two thirds and $142,980
in earnings. Mr. Windjammer was the second choice at $2.20 to 1. Susanne Hooper's
Lake Butler quickly took command while stopping the timer for the opening quarter
in 22.30 and a length advantage over Pinky Freud. Pinky Freud collared Lake
Butler at the top of the lane with the half mile clicked off in 45.63. Meanwhile,
Mr. Windjammer was parked five wide on the turn and gaining ground. Hidden Expense
was saving all the ground and rallied to reach the leaders with a furlong to
go. Mr. Windjammer was on the outside with Hidden Expense nearest the rail and
the two reached the sixteenth pole heads apart with the winner yet decided.
Mr. Windjammer responded to pressure and narrowly outran Hidden Expense to the
line while proving the best by a head. Pinky Freud finished third but was beaten
six lengths. Mr. Windjammer covered the distance over a fast track in 1:10.76
and earned $12,540. Bred by Stonebridge Farm, the three year gelded son of Regal
Classic out of Royal Relic by Colonial Affair now has five career wins out of
only 9 tries and $89,415 in money won. Also, the home-bred runner qualified
for $2,508 in breeders' awards.
9/1/08, Mother Russia remains unbeaten in 30th running of the $156,612 Lady Fingers
 Photo: Tom Cooley Photography |
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MOTHER
RUSSIA
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Obviously NY Stable's MOTHER RUSSIA put Sapphire Sky away leaving the eighth pole and then under the whip of Michael J. Luzzi turned back Fabulous Florence to capture the 30th running of $156,612 Lady Finger Stakes by three-parts of a length. Trained by Linda Rice, Mother Russia will leave the Finger Lakes area with perfect record of two starts and two wins. Mother Russia made her career debut at Saratoga on August 13 with state-breds maiden allowance rivals going five and one-half furlongs where she made every pole a winning one with an impressive five length score. Today's contest was restricted to juvenile fillies bred in the state of New York going six furlongs with Linda Rice's trained entry of Mother Russia and Saturdaynitesandy the odds on favorites at .45 cents on the dollar. Saturdaynitesandy also made her first career start a winning one with a going away three and one-half length tally going five-eighths at the Spa. Strait Gate Stable's local Sapphire Sky was the third choice at $6.00 to 1 in a field of nine. Trained by Raphael G. Rohena Sr, Sapphire Sky dusted a field of state-bred maidens by almost 14 lengths. Sapphire Sky with J M Rohena in the saddle rushed out and got the opening quarter in 22.11 with Mother Russia lapped to the outside. The pair continued matching strides on the turn with the half mile clocked in 45.97. Meanwhile, Fabulous Florence was gaining ground and entered the lane in gear. Mother Russia put a half length over Sapphire Sky with Fabulous Florence ranging up with a furlong to go. Mother Russia responded to steady pressure and turned back Fabulous Florence to score by three-quarters of a length. Sapphire Sky finished third. Mother Russia covered the distance over a fast track in 1:12.21 and earned a whopping $93,967. Bred by Philip Birsh, the two year old filly by Mayakovsky out of Still Secret by Hennessy now has two career wins out of two starts and $122,567 in money won. Also the undefeated filly qualified for $9,396 in breeders' awards.
9/1/08, Dagnabit keeps win skein intact in 34th running of the $144,213 Aspirant Stakes
 Photo: Tom Cooley Photography |
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DAGNABIT
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Lansdon B. Robbins lll and Thomas Hansen's DAGNABIT gained the lead from the outset and was never ever in jeopardy to take the 34th running of the $144,213 Aspirant Stakes by five and one-half furlongs. Trained by Richard E. Dutrow Jr, Dagnabit was coming off an impressive half length tally in the wide-open $100,000 Tremont Stakes at Belmont Park on June 29. Prior to that score, the two year old colt by Freud proved best in his career debut over the same track going five furlongs on June 15 by just over a length. Today's Stakes race was restricted to two year olds bred in the state of New York and was decided at six furlongs. Seven rivals were set to go and all were shooting for the $86,528 winners share. Dagnabit was the heavy favorite at 1 to 2 with William Bloom's Lookin At Her the second choice at $4.00 to 1. Lookin At Her the two year colt by Hook and Ladder and trained by Ramon M.Hernandez prevailed over a sloppy track in a long stretch battle at Saratoga on July 23 by three-quarters of a length over Vinnie Van Go. Dagnabit with Rudy Rodriquez aboard got his mount to the Bill Daily while getting the first fraction in 22.68. Momsboy was tracking with the half mile clicked off in 46.32. Dagnabit entered the lane with a length and one-half lead while Lookin At Her was making her move on the outside. Lookin At Her got to within four lengths off Dagnabit with a furlong to and that was as close as she was going to get. Rodriguez grabbed hold of Dagnabit and the pair jogged through the final sixteenth while proving clearly the best by five and one-half lengths. Momsboy came back on to best Lookin At Her for the place. Dagnabit covered the distance over a fast track and earned $86,528. Bred by his owners, the two year son of Freud out of Cool Ghoul by Silver Ghost now has three career wins out three starts and $179,108 in money won. Also the unblemished juvenile colt qualified for $8,652 in breeders' awards.
8/31/08, Afleet Alexandra romps in 23rd running of the $75,000 New York Oaks
 Photo: Tom Cooley Photography |
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AFLEET
ALEXANDRA
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Blue Star Stable's AFLEET ALEXANDRA moved quickly to take command into the lane and then widened some to capture the 23rd running of the $75,000 New York Oaks by three and one-half lengths. Afleet Alexandra's most recent racewas on August 10 at Presque Isle Downs going one mile and seventy over the poly track where she finished a game second to the highly regarded Zubani. Prior to that solid effort, the three year old filly by Northern Afleet ran a mile over the same oval and finished runner-up to Little Be Rosson whilemissing by two lengths. Today's 23rd running of the New York Oaks at one mile and one-sixteenth was for three year old fillies bred in the state of New York. Eight rivals including the Michael S. Ferraro trained entry of Afleet Alexandra and Bob's Dylan were set to go with Gabrielle Farm's Study Abroad the luke warm choice at $2.00 to 1 over the Ferraro entry at $2.10 to 1. Trained by Richard E. Dutrow Jr, Study Abroad was shipping from Saratoga where she finished second to runaway winner Raffie's Treasure on August 7. Study Abroad comes into this Stakes race with 2 wins, 2 seconds, a third and$117,190 in earnings. Bob's Dylan and Love Co set very quick early fractions of 22.41 and 45.68 for the half mile. Emilio Serrano's Celtic Kettle collared the pace setters midway on the final bend while Afleet Alexandra was almost six lengths back in sixth with the six furlongs clocked in 1:12.32. Afleet Alexandra with John Davila in the saddle moved quickest of all and gained the lead in upper stretch. The Ferraro trainee put six and one-half lengths over the late running Clery's Magic with a furlong to go. Clery's Magic was gaining ground on Afleet Alexandra and wound-up missing by three and one-half lengths. Yet Again finished third. Afleet Alexandra covered the distance over a fast track in 1:47.17 and earned $45,000. Bred by Very Un Stable, the three year old daughter of Northern Afleet out of Just Call Me by Devil's Bag now has four wins out of only nine starts and $112,380 in money won. Also the New York Oaks winner qualified for $4,500 in breeders' awards.
8/30/08, Marlinspike makes amends in $21,000 feature
Lou
Donato and Mario Forgioine's MARLINSPIKE made amends today when he put
away Redan leaving the eighth pole to take today's$21,000 featured seventh race
by two and one-quarter lengths. Marlinspike finished second in his last his
last three starts asthe chalk and today the Chris Englehart trained runner found
a field he could handle. Marlinspike shipped in here in the springfrom the Big
Apple and rattled off two straight. The four year old colt by Captain Bodgit
bested a field of never won threeallowance types going one mile and seventy
yards on May 6. Marlinspike came right back in his next condition around two
turns andproved clearly best by three lengths. Today's contest at one mile and
seventy yards was restricted to three year olds and upwardwhich had never won
two state-bred races other than. Seven rivals were set to go with Marlinspike
the odds on favorite at .40 cents on the dollar. The only other rival with a
prayer to upset was Acclaimed Racing Stable's Redan. Trained by Michael A.Lecesse,
Redan just wired a field of never won three allowance types going one mile and
seventy yards by just over two lengths. It appeared on paper that Redan was
clearly the one to catch. Redan with John A. Grabowski in saddle did just that.
Redan got the opening fraction in 24.98 and then stopped the timer for the half
mile in 49.76. Marlinspike was tracking and ready to pounce at any time. Davila
aboard Marlinspike made his move in the lane and collared Redan with a furlong
to go and then the pair drove clear to get the money by just over two lengths.
Extreme Speed ran on by Redan to earn the place. Marlinspike covered the distance
over a fast track in 1:44.54 and earned $12,600. Bred by Margaux Farm, Inc.,
the four year old son of Captain Bodgit out of Metromania by Metrogrand now
has five career wins out of 20 starts and $99,523 in money won. Also the five
time winner qualified for $2,520 in breeders' awards.
8/29/08, Heavenly Anna captures $20,500 NW1X
Francis
J. Paolangeli's HEAVENLY ANNA collared pacesetter Four Nine Whiskeyin
midstretch and then edged clear to capture today's $20,500 NW1X by alength.
Heavenly Anna shipped here in the spring from Aqueduct and made herlocal debut
for trainer Charlton Baker on May 25 with never won fourallowance types going
six furlongs. In that test the six year old mare byTomorrows Cat rallied to
take the lead in gear with a furlong to go and thendrew off as much the best
despite losing the whip in deep stretch to scoreby seven and one-half lengths.
Heavenly Anna came back out of conditionswith NW2X going six furlongs and was
bet down as the 3 to 2 favorite whereshe ran runner-up to Motor City Mama while
beaten seven and one-halflengths. Today's contest at five and one-half furlongs
was restricted to fillies and mares which have not won a state-bred race other
than with OscarBarrera Jr's entry of Western Lariat and Yes I May the choice
by a couple of dollars at $1.85 to 1 over Heavenly Anna. Yes I May was the closer
with Western Lariat playing the part as the one to catch. Western Lariat showed
the way to midstretch in her last and weakened to finish third to Majestic Lori.
Yes I May was also coming off a third place performance with similar but was
beaten by wire-to-wire Katnik. Four Nine Whiskey and Western Lariat were heads
apart with the first fraction clicked off in 22.29. Heavenly Anna was two length
back with the half mile clocked in 45.75. Western Lariat dropped back and Heavenly
Anna and Four Nine Whisky reached the eighth pole together. Meanwhile, Swing
Lane was finding her best stride and had almost two lengths to make-up with
a furlong to go. Heavenly Anna put Four Nine Whiskey away at the sixteenth pole
and then edged clear of the late running Swing Lane to score by a length. Heavenly
Anna covered the distance over a wet-fast track in 1:04.66 and earned $12,300.
Bred by De Savino Stable LLC, the six year old mare by Tomorrows Cat out of
Trip Around Heaven by Halo now has four career wins out of 26 starts and $128,828
in money won. Also, Heavenly Anna qualified for $2,460 in breeders' awards.
8/26/08, She's Precise prevails in wide-open $17,100 feature
Who's
Next Racing Stable and Paul W. Barrow's SHE'S PRECISE responded when
collared from both sides with a furlong to go and under strong handling from
Jose Osorio held on stubbornly to prevail in today's wide-open featured sixth
race by a neck. After today's game score, She's Precise has won two out of her
last three starts. The Paul W. Barrow trained speedster earned her diploma in
wire-to-wire fashion going six furlongs on July 7 by just under five lengths.
The three year old filly by Precise End came back with never won two allowance
types on August 3 at six furlongs and held a four length lead with a furlong
to go but was no match for runaway winner Celtic Kettle. Today's contest at
six furlongs was for fillies and mares which had never won two races with Carmen
Sequin's Lovely Daniella the 3 to 5 favorite.The Michael S. Ferraro trained
runner was ready to make amends today after breaking in the air in her last
as the 3 to 5 choice and finishing a respectable second to Sarcasm. She's Precise
was the secondchoice at $2.40 to 1 while Sequel Racing Stable's Straight n'
Arrow was dismissed at $2.85 to 1.Straight n' Narrow trained by Donna Bireta
made herlocal debut here a winning one by wiring a field of wide-open maiden
allowance rivals by almost nine lengths going five and one-half furlongs.She's
Precise quickly took the advantage and got the opening quarter in 22.55 with
Lovely Daniella and Straight n' Narrow stalking heads apart. The half mile was
clocked in 46.05 with She's Precise showing the way. Lovely Daniella opted to
take the rail while Straight N' Narrow angled to the outside. The pair moved
to collar She's Precise from both sides with a furlong to go and it looked like
they were going to run on by. She's Precise matched strides with pair and then
surged forward at the end to get the job done by a neck. Straight n' Narrow
finished a neck over Lovely Daniella in third. The gutsy She's Precise covered
the distance over a fast track in 1:12.19 and earned $ 10,260. Bred by Sez Who
Thoroughbreds, the three year old filly by Precise End out of Strong Little
Girl by Wolf Power (SAF) now has two career wins out of only 7 starts and $37,430
in money won. Also, the speedster qualified for $2,052 in breeders' awards.
8/25/08, We Love Our Kids gets the nod in $21,000 feature
Linda
K. Dixon's owned and trained WE LOVE OUR KIDS collared Schifty's Angela
in midstretch and then won the head bobbing photo to take today's $21,000 featured
eighth race bya nose. We Love Our Kids ran a solid second place finish in her
last to Tickets to Fly while missing by less than a length back on July 5. The
four year old filly by Wheelaway has started ten times before today this year
with a record of 2 wins, 1 second, 3 thirds and $20,916 in earnings. We Love
Our Kids shipped in from Aqueduct and Linda K. Dixon jumped in and claimed her
for a mere $4,000 back on May 11. In that test, We Love Our Kids wired a field
of maiden claimers going one mile and seventy yards by a length. She came right
back and got the money with never won two with $7,500 claimers by almost eleven
lengths. Today's contest at one mile and seventy yards was restricted to fillies
and mares which had never won a state-bred race other than with Schifty's Angela
the 4 to 5 favorite. Trained by Michael A. Lecesse, Schifty's Angela got the
money two races back with never won three allowance types and then finished
second with NW1X going one mile and seventy yards. Divine Comedy and Mysterious
Key were hustled to the front while getting the opening quarter in 23.60. The
pair continued on dictating the pace with the half mile clicked off in 47.26.
Schifty's Angela was gaining ground leaving the backstretch and collared the
leaders at the top of the lane with the six furlongs going down in 1:13.85.
Schifty's Angela was soon joined by We Love Our Kids with a furlong to go. The
two matched strides to the wire with We Love Our Kids getting the nod over Schifty's
Angela to get the nod in a hard fought stretch duel. Mysterious Key held on
for the show over Regal Playtime in fourth. We Love Our Kids got the distance
over a fast track in 1:45.94 and earned $12,600. Bred by Leslie Roncari-Marconi,
the four year old mare by Wheelaway
out of Ave's Finale by Personal Flag now has three career wins out of 21 starts
and $68,856 in money won. Also the heads up claimed runner qualified for $1,260
in breeders' awards.
8/24/08, Citrine wires 6 in $20,900 Parker Buckley Memorial
Despite
stumbling at the start, My Purple Haze Stable's CITRINE gathered herself
and made every pole a winning one to capture today's $20,900 Parker Buckley
Memorial Race by four lengths. Parker Buckley a regular rider here in the past,
died unexpectedly in a training accident at Saratoga Racecourse last week. Today's
race is in memory of Parker Buckley. Citrine, trained by leading conditioner
Chris Englehart was coming off a runner-up finish to the highly regarded Guts
Game on July 27. That test was for NW2X going six furlongs where Citrine set
the pace to midstretch and then lasted for the place while beaten six lengths.
Today's contest at six furlongs was restricted to fillies and mares which had
never won two state-bred races other than or if entered for a $10,000 tag. Six
rivals were set the go with Citrine the odds on choice at .25 cents on the dollar.
The second choice and only one with a chance to upset was Dominic Tedeschi's
Tara Drive. The track was favoring speed today and Tara Drive has a ton of it.
The Joseph Raposa trained runner rattled off two straight wire-to-wire scores
before running into the likes of Karakorum Ella. Tara Drive matched strides
with Karakorum Ella early but that was it and wound-up finishing second beaten
just over four lengths. Citrine stumbled at the start and still managed to get
the first quarter in 22.09 with Heresheis tracking a length back. Citrine padded
that lead to three and one-half lengths with the half mile clocked in 45.02.
Heresheis was dropping back entering the lane while Leap to Fame took over the
second spot. Citrine reached the eighth pole with a five and one-half length
lead and then coasted home proving best by four lengths. Leap to Fame turned
back the late running Hailey Keen to secure the place. Citrine covered the distance
over a fast track in 1:11.74 and earned $12,540. Bred by William Punk Jr & Philip
DiLeo, the six year old mare by Rodeo out of Erins Eyes by Boundary now has
8 career wins out 31 starts and $147,997 in money won. Also, Citrine qualified
for $2,508 in breeders' awards. Citrine was claiming by owner trainer Joseph
E. Marino for $10,000.
8/23/08, Fly to Me prevails in wide-open $27,000 feature
Langpap
Stable's FLY TO ME rallied along the fence to take today's wide-open
$27,000 featured eighth race by a nose. Trained by Michael A. Lecesse, this
was Fly to Me's second straight tally. The five year old mare by Belong to Me
rallied to nail Sweet Lorena by a head in the six furlong $50,000 Arctic Queen
Handicap on August 2. Today's contest at one mile and seventy yards was for
wide-open fillies and mares with Michael S. Ferraro's trained entry of Sweet
Lorena and Watral's Dahlia the luke warm favorites and $2.05 to 1. Also taking
plenty of action at $2.25 to 1 was Fly to Me. Getting back to the entry, after
Sweet Lorena's narrow defeat to Fly to Me, the four year old filly by Langfuhr
shipped off to Presque Isle downs where she proved best in a conditioned allowance
test with some having claiming tags going one mile by a neck. She came back
over the Poly Track at the same distance and finished runner-up to Afleet Angel
beaten two lengths. It appeared on paper that Sweet Lorena was the one to catch.
But, Sweet Lorena was fractious just as the gates opened and she came away about
three lengths behind. Hoosick Falls ended up on the Bill Daily with the opening
quarter clicked off in 23.63. Ashley's Glory was tracking with the half mile
clocked in 46.71. Meanwhile, Fly to Me was in striking distance by Sweet Lorena
was let loose by Jeremias Flores and was gaining with every stride. Ashley's
Glory collared Hoosick Falls at the top of the with six furlongs going down
in 1:12.21. Fly to Me was only four and one-half lengths back and a length behind
the latter was Sweet Lorena. Sweet Lorena circled rivals into the lane while
well out in the strip and opened up a three and one-half length advantage over
Fly to Me with only a furlong to go. Sweet Lorena was drifting out and Fly to
Me was gaining. Flores went to right handed urging and Sweet Lorena was coming
down on Fly to Me with every stride but not fast enough and missed by a whisker.
Watral's Dahlia finished well to earn a share. Fly to Me took covered the distance
over fast track in 1:44.40 and earned $16,200. Bred by her owners, the five
year old mare by Belong to Me out of Nightengale by Clever Track now has 11
career wins out of 30 starts and a whopping $339,061 in money won. Also, the
good now runner qualified for $1,620 in breeders' awards.
8/22/08, Pinky Freud makes it two straight in $20,900 feature
Joseph
E. Marino's owned, trained and just claimed for $4,000, despite stumbling at
the start, PINKY FREUD put Long Lost Pal away on the turn and then turned
back Hidden Expression to take today's $20,900 featured fifth race by a length.
Claimed from the Wiley veteran Michael S. Ferraro in his last start on August
10 when Pinky Freud demolished a field of condition bottom claimers by just
over twelve lengths. Pinky Freud had not won a race since 2006 but had tons
of back class with 8 career wins and $143,000 in money won. After today's impressive
performance by Pinky Freud, it is clearly safe to say that it was a vert nice
claim by Joe Marino. Today's contest going six furlongs was restricted to three
year olds and upward which had never won two state-bred race other than or entered
for a $10,000 claming tag. Eight rivals were set to go with Huge City the 6
to 5 favorite Pinky Freud the second choice at $3.05 to 1. William B. Fuccillo's
Huge City shipped in here from Belmont Park and finished runner-up to Thirteen
Mil. That test was going five and one-half furlongs with Huge City the chalk
at 4 to 5. Pinky Freud with Jose Osorio in the saddle, rushed up to contest
the lead after stumbling leaving the gate and got the opening quarter in 22.34.
Long Lost Pal was tracking in second with Pinky Freud getting the half mile
in 45.73 and length lead. Meanwhile, Huge City was in striking distance running
third and looked like he may have a lot of energy left. Pinky Freud padded his
lead to two and one-half lengths with a furlong to go while Hidden Expense appeared
to be full of run. Osorio got Pinky Freud to go one more furlong and the pair
held on for a length decision over the late running Hidden Expense. Huge City
hung a bit but finished with interest to best Ernie's Choice to earn a share.
Pinky Freud covered the distance over a fast track in 1:11.16 and earned $12,540.
Bred by Stonewall Farm, the six year old gelded son of David out of Varsity
Gold by Transworld now has nine career wins out of 26 starts and $161,042 in
money won. Also the highly regarded runner qualified for $2,508 in breeders'
awards.
8/18/08, Celestial Flight makes amends in $21,400 feature
Francis
J. Paolangeli's CELESTIAL FLIGHT grabbed the lead from the outsetand
never looked back to take today's $21,400 featured eighth race by fiveand one-half
lengths. Celestial Flight was sent off as the 3 to 5 choice inher last and finished
second. In that test around two turns, Cherna beatCelestial Flight to the lead
and then Point Me to It came rolling to get themoney by seven lengths. That
wasn't going to happen again today. Today'scontest going one mile and seventy
yards was restricted to fillies and mareswhich have not won two state-bred races
other than or entered for a claimingtag of $10,000. Six rivals were set to go
with Seahorse Stable's Yet Againthe 4 to 5 choice. Trained by Karl Grusmark,
Yet Again was coming off a sixand one-quarter length romp in the park going
around turns with NW1X. Sincearriving from Laurel Race Course, Yet Again has
started three times and has scored twice and finished a solid runner-up to wire-to-wire
winner Cherna.It appeared on paper that Celestial Flight and Cherna would be
knocking heads and then get rundown by Yet Again? Celestial Flight with Dennis
Carr up, quickly got his mount on the Bill Daily with Cherna tracking in second.
The first quarter was clocked in 24.41. Celestial Flight got the half mile in
48.17 and a two and one-half length cushion. Cherna was still tracking and not
gaining any ground. The six furlongs was clicked off in 1:12.91 with Celestial
Flight four length in front with a quarter of a mile to run. Meanwhile, Yet
Again was let loose by Elaine Castillo but when she looked up Celestial was
already home-free. Celestial Flight went on to score by five and one-half lengths
over Yet Again in second. Cherna faded to fourth while Soft Expression finished
well to earn a share. Celestial Flight covered the distance over a fast track
in 1:43.65 and earned $12,840. Bred by Lauren Kelso Canady DVM, the five year
old mare by A. P. Jet out of Saratoga Isle by Erins Isle (IRE) now has five
career wins out of only 13 starts and $78,377 in money won. Also, the front-running
winner qualified for $2,568 in breeders' awards.
8/17/08, Majestic Lori rallies to take $20,500 feature
Charles
and Joseph Loiacano's MAJESTIC LORI came from slightly off the pace to
capture today's $20,500 featured seventh race by three lengths. Trained by Joseph
E. Marino, Majestic Lori as been knocking at the door with three runner-up finishes
in a row. The four year old filly by Gold Fever tracked Katnik throughout in
her last on August 9 only to miss by less than two lengths. Today's contest
going six furlongs was restricted to fillies and mares which had never won a
state-bred race other than with Albert R. Tassone's Swing Lane the $1.35 to
1 favorite. Trained by Michael C Aro, Swing Lane was shipping in from Suffolk
Downs where she finished third in her most recent at six furlongs with wide-open
allowance company. Swing Lane comes into this race with a record of five wins,
three seconds, seven thirds and $90,326 in earnings. Seven rivals were ready
to go with Swing Lane appearing to be the true speed. Western Lariat with Dennis
Carr up, broke alertly and beat Swing Lane to the half mile pole by a length
with the opening quarter pole clocked in 22.14. Swing Lane was still stalking
with the half mile going down in 45.59. Meanwhile, Majestic Lori was sitting
comfortably in third and ready to roll at any time. Swing Lane failed to offer
a bid but Majestic Lori collared Western Lariat in gear with a furlong to go.
Majestic Lori quickly took command then drew off for a three length decision.
Swing Lane finished well enough to be second best over the tiring Western Lariat
in third. Majestic Lori covered the distance over a fast track in 1:11.92 and
earned 12,300. Bred by William G. Gotimer & Luca M. Williams, the four year
old daughter of Gold Fever
out of Dancing Lori by Gate Dancer now has four career wins out of 19 starts
and $68,235 in money won. Also, the hard knocking runner qualified for $2,460
in breeders' awards.
8/16/08, Majestic Joy held on stubbornly to take $20,100 feature
Blue
Star Stable's MAJESTIC JOY was collared by Marlinspike on the final turn
and then held on stubbornly to take today's $20,100 featured eighth by a head.
Trained by the Wiley veteran Michael S. Ferraro, Majestic Joy showed the way
in his last race to the late stages but could not turn back the fast closing
Jackson Crossing while missing by almost two lengths. Prior to that solid effort,
the four year old son of Raffie's Majesty wired a field of never won three for
a claming tag of $7,500 around two turns by a convincing eleven and three-quarters
of a length. Today's contest was restricted to three year olds and upward which
had never won a state-bred race other than going one mile and one-sixteenth.
Eight rivals were set to start with Lou Donato and Mario Forgione's Marlinspike
the 3 to 2 favorite over Majestic Joy by .30 cents. Trained by Chris Englehart,
Marlinspike shipped in from Aqueduct in the spring and has started here five
times with two wins and two seconds with earnings of $31,110. Majestic Joy with
Dennis Carr astride was a half length back in second with the first quarter
clocked in 24.46. Majestic Joy collared Dancing Robbins and got the half mile
in 48.49. Meanwhile, Marlinspike was let loose by John Davila and they hooked
up with Majestic Joy midway on the final turn with the six furlongs going down
in 1:13.55. The pacesetters entered the lane with a gap of about five lengths
back to Dancing Robbins in third. Majestic Joy and Marlinspike matched strides
to the line with Majestic Joy proving the best by a head. Fifty Sense finished
third. Majestic Joy covered the distance over a fast track in 1:47.23 and earned
$12,600. Bred by Chalmar Farm, the four year old colt by Raffie's
Majesty out of Chunter's Joy by Northern Jove now has five career wins out
of 17 tries and $81,7875 in money won. Also, the good now runner qualified for
$$2,520 in money won.
8/12/08, Lake Butler wires 7 in $20,500 NW1X
Susanne Hooper's LAKE BUTLER quickly took command and then was never threatened to take today's $20,500 NW1X by two and one-quarter lengths. Trained by Paul W. Barrow, Lake Butler was the true speed of this dash and was dismissed as the second choice at $3.70 to 1. Langpap Stable's Barossa who was coming off a fifth place finish with similar was the odds on chalk at 4 to 5. Prior to that dissapointing finish, Barossa finished a very respectable fourth to Mr. Windjammer in the July 20 $50,000 Ontario County Stakes going six furlongs. Today's contest at six furlongs was for three year olds and upward which had never won a state-bred race other than with all shooting for the $12,300 winners share. Lake Butler with Jose Osorio in the saddle, quickly put two lengths over Barossa with the opening quarter clicked off in 22.26. Barossa continued tracking Lake Butler with the half mile going down in 45.32. Lake Butler had one furlong left to tackle and only had a length and one-half cushion over the 4 to 5 favorite. Lake Butler had plenty of gas left in his tank and widened some to get the job done by just over two lengths. Barossa could never offer a real threat and then was able to turn back Captiva Dream to secure the place by a half length. Lake Butler covered the distance over a fast track in 1:11.88 and earned $12,300. Bred by Flying Zee Stable's, the four year old gelded son of Key Contender out of Seeyou in Saratoga by Carnivalay now has five career wins out of 22 tries and $72,903 in money won. Lake Butler also qualified for $2,460 in breeders' awards.
8/11/08, Sarahsthejudge makes it two straight in $21,000 NW1X feature
Mickael
Rolffs' SARAHSTHEJUDGE just destroyed a field of bottom condition foes
and then came right back with NW1X and again made every pole a winning one to
capture today's $21,000 featured eighth race by just over four lengths. Trained
by her part owner Mickael Rolffs, Sarahsthejudge had only been out three times
on the year before her winning performance on August 2. In her second try on
June 10 around two turns with never won two for $7,500, the four year old filly
by Judge T C tracked throughout and finished a game second while missing by
only a half length. Trainer Rolffs gave Sarahsthejudge a rest and some solid
conditioning from July 1 to August 2. Today's contest at one mile and seventy
yards was restricted to fillies and mares which had never won a state-bred race
other than with John Donato's Tally Me Out the $1.55 to 1. Tally Me Out has
only had two starts on the year and both were sprints without wins. But on paper
it appeared that Tally Me Out with the leading jockey up could get a clear lead
from the get go. Also taking action and sent off as the second choice at $2.10
to 1 was Schiffauer Stable's Schifty's Angela. The Michael Lecesse trained runner
was coming off a solid score around two turns with never won three allowance
types. Sarahsthejudge with John Grabowski in the irons, got his mount to break
sharply and got the opening quarter in 23.41 and a length clear. Sarahsthejudge
was never challenged up the backstretch while getting the half mile in 47.62
and then stopped the timer for six furlongs in 1:13.18. Tracking three lengths
back with a quarter of a mile to go was Schifty's Angela with Tally Me Out also
within striking distance. Sarahsthejudge padded her lead to five lengths with
a furlong left and then was never threatened while being hand ridden to a four
and one-quarter length score. Schifty's Angela finished second by six lengths
over Super Diva in third. Tally Me Out did not try to get the lead early and
then was rated to no avail. Sarahsthejudge covered the distance over a fast
track in 1:45.37 and returned $9.00. Bred by Herman Wilensky, the four year
daughter of Judge T C out of Sarah Rosebud by Unreal Zeal now has five career
wins out of 17 tries and with the addition of $12,600 has a total of $40,209
in money won. Also, the front-running winner qualified for $1,260 in breeders'
awards.
8/10/08, Karakorum captures $20,900 Optional $10,000 claiming feature
Karakorum
Farm's KARAKORUM ELLA put Tara Drive away on the turn and then widened
in the lane to capture today's $20,900 featured eighth race by fourand one-quarter
lengths. The Chris Englehart trained runner finished runner-up to runaway winner
Cleverly Regal in her last on July 12. Prior tothat test, the five year old
mare by American Standard downed a field of wide-open 6,500 claimers going five
and one-half furlongs with a wideningfour length tally. Today's contest at five
and one-half furlongs was restricted to fillies and mares which had never won
two state-bred racesother than or optional claiming for $10,000. Karakorum Ella
already won this condition but she was entered with a $10,000 claiming tag.
Six rivals wereready to go with all but Tara Drive entered for $10,000. Karakorum
Ella was the 3 to 2 favorite with leading rider John Davila in the saddle. TheEnglehart
trainee rushed out and contested the lead with Tara Drive while actually stopping
the timer for the first fraction in 22.53. Karakorum Ella put Tara Drive away
on the turn and then widened while getting the half mile in 46.06. Tara Drive
was still chasing and had a hand full of lengths to make-up with a furlong to
go. Karakorum Ella never gave it up and went on to get the job done by just
over four lengths. Tara Drive was no match for thewinner but held on stubbornly
over Horrible Jean to narrowly secure the place. Karakorum Ella covered the
distance over a fast track in 1:05.47 and earned $12,540. Bred by Dutchess
Views Farm & J. I. Racing, Inc, the five year old mare by American Standard
out of Lively Double by Double Negative now has 10 career wins out of 41 starts
and $116,266 in money won. Also, the hard knocking mare qualified for $2,508
in breeders' awards.
8/9/08, Katnik wires 6 in $20,500 NW1X feature
Blue
Stork Stable's KATNIK kept her win skein intact despite the class raise
with a wire-to-wire score in today's $20,500 featured seventh race by almost
two lengths. Trained by Charlton Baker and guided to victory by Rudy Ignacio,
this was Katnik's third straight tally. The four year filly by Kelly Kip got
the ball rolling on July 15 when the Baker trainee wired a field of 10 never
won three races carrying $4,000 claming tags. The speedster was entered right
back in her next condition at the bottom and came from slightly off the pace
to get the money by three and one-half lengths. Today's contest was restricted
to fillies and mares which had never won a state-bred race other than going
six furlongs. Six rivals were set to go with Charles and Joseph Loiacano's Majestic
Lori the even money favorite. Trained by Joseph E. Marino, Majestic Lori has
finished second or third in her last three starts with NW1X. It appeared today
that the hard knocking runner may have found a field she can handle? Katnik
was the speed and Rudy Ignacio got her out the gate in fine fashion while stopping
the timer for the opening fraction in 22.51. Tracking along the rail in second
was Majestic Lori. Katnik reached the quarter pole with a length and one-half
cushion while getting the half mile in 45.81. Majestic Lori continued along
the rail in hot pursuit but could not gain an inch on Katnik. Katnik got to
the wire with a length and three-quarter win over Majestic Lori in second. Clery
L. Sosa's Yes I May was along for a share. Katnik covered the distance over
a good track in 1:11.64 and returned $9.00. Bred by Howard Daderian, the four
year old filly by Kelly Kip out of Janitrix by Claramount now has five career
wins out of only 16 starts and $59,954. Also, the good now filly qualified for
$2,460 in breeders' awards.
8/8/08, Sapphire Sky romps in $19,000 wide-open "MSW"
Strait
Gate Stable's first time starter SAPPHIRE SKY took the lead from the
outset and then widened in the stretch for a stellar almost 14 length score
in today's wide-open maiden featured seventh race. Trained by Raphael G. Rohena
Sr, Sapphire Sky was coming off a solid workout from the gate on July 29. In
that morning workout, the two year old filly by Sky Mesa bested 14 of the 15
other rivals that worked five furlongs in 1:01.20 breezing. Today's test at
five furlongs was for maiden fillies and mares with TSP Enterprises' Wheels
Up the favorite at $2.25 to 1. Trained by David Markgraf, Wheels Up had one
race under her belt. In that test at five furlongs, Wheels Up vied for the lead
to upper stretch and then faded to finish fifth beaten six lengths to Thunder
Reigns. Sapphire Sky was the second choice in the wagering at $2.30 to 1. Six
rivals were set to go and all were shooting for the $11,400 winners share. Sapphire
Sky with J. M. Rohena Jr in the saddle, got his mount to break suddenly and
the duo opened up a quick two length lead with the first fraction clicked off
in 22.91. Stalking heads apart were Wheels Up and Favorite Colors. Sapphire
Sky reached the quarter pole with a commanding four length advantage while stopping
the timer for the half mile in 46.63. Wheels Up gave up the chase while Favorite
Colors was still in pursuit. The Rohena Sr trainee opened up a nine length lead
with only a furlong remaining. Meanwhile, Mouse Cat who had been saving all
the ground was making her move. Sapphire Sky widened under a steady hand ride
to the get the job done by thirteen and three-quarters of a length. Favorite
Colors held the place over Mousecat by a length and one-half. Sapphire Sky covered
the distance over sloppy track in 59.92 and earned $11,400. Bred by Strait Gate
Thoroughbreds LLC, the two year old filly by Sky Mesa out of Charm Away by Sliver
Charm earned $11,400 and also qualified for $1,140 in breeders' awards.
8/5/08, Beyond Challenge ships in and wires 6 in $22,800 "MSW" by Matt Church
Suzann
Bobley's BEYOND CHALLENGE shipped in here from Belmont Park and then
was never asked at any time while on the Bill Daily to earn his Diploma in hand
by almost three lengths. Trained by George Weaver, Beyond Challenge was coming
out of maiden allowance for state-breds going one mile and one-sixteenth on
the lawn. In that test, Beyond Challenge with Jorge F. Chavez in the saddle,
tracked the leader for three-quarters of a mile and then faded to run tenth
but only beaten eight lengths. Today's test was restricted to three year olds
and upward bred in the state of New York and decided at six furlongs. Seven
rivals were ready to roll with Beyond Challenge the choice by a nickel over
Digital Age at $1.65 to 1. Digital Age who was also shipping in from the Big
Apple with eight starts under his belt with his last two races carrying claiming
tags of $35,000. The Ruben Vaiedes owned runner finished fourth and sixth with
both races contested at six furlongs. Beyond Challenge with Pedro Rodriguez
up, quickly gained the advantage over Digital Age with the first fraction clocked
in 22.71. Digital Age tracked Beyond Challenge while a half length back and
to the outside. Beyond Challenge put Digital Age away entering the lane with
the half mile going in 46.38. Pedro Rodriquez never moved his hands on Beyond
Challenge and the pair coasted home in handy fashion to get the money by two
and three-quarters of a length. Elizabeth Aragon's Valid Threat rallied to best
Digital Age by over four lengths ini third. Beyond Challenge covered the distance
over a fast track in 1:12.36 and earned $13,680. Bred by Hidden Lake Farm, LLC
& Joan T. Simpson, the three year old gelded son of Flatter out of Dangerous
Beauty by Meadow Lake now has $26,017 in money won and also qualified for $1,368
in breeders' awards.
8/4/08, Point Me to It wins going away in $21,400 feature by Matt Church
Oakwood
Stable's POINT ME TO IT collared the leaders in gear and drew off for
fun to take today's $21,400 featured eighth race by seven lengths. Trained by
Daniel H. Conway Jr, Point Me to It finished third behind Gumpster Stable's
Cherna in her last but dusted her today with ease. Sent off as the third choice
at $4.40 to 1, this was the highest odds Point Me to It has had since arriving
here from Aqueduct seven starts back. Today's contest was restricted to fillies
and mares which had never won two state-bred races other than with optional
claiming tags of $10,000. Six rivals were set to go one mile and seventy yards
with Francis J. Paolangeli's Celestial Flight the odds on favorite at .60 cents
on the dollar. Trained by Charlton Baker, Celestial Flight was coming off a
stellar thirteen length tally in her last with NW1X at one mile and seventy
yards. Prior to that test, Celestial Flight was making her first start on the
year with never won four allowance types going six furlongs where she finished
bled as the 8 to 5 favorite. Cherna with the hot riding John Davila Jr in the
saddle, got her on the Bill Daily with the first quarter going in 23.11. Celestial
Flight was stalking a length back. Cherna continued on dictating the pace with
the half mile clocked in 47.25. Cherna padded her lead on the final bend and
entered the stretch with a two and one-half length advantage over Celestial
Flight. Dennis Carr angled Celestial Flight out some for the drive and was gaining
on Cherna. Meanwhile, Point Me to It was full of run and ran on by Celestial
Flight and Cherna like they were tied to a post. Celestial Flight got by Cherna
to earn the place while Point Me to It drew off for fun. Point Me to It covered
the distance over a fast track in 1:44.38 and earned $12,840. Bred by Thomas/Lankin,
the five year old mare by Precise End out of Conomo Point by Steinlen (GB) now
has five career wins out of 38 starts and $152,264 in money won. Also, the romping
winner qualified for $2,568 in breeders' awards.
8/3/08, Celtic Kettle wins as much the best in wide-open $17,100 feature by Matt Church
Emilio
Serrano's CELTIC KETTLE who was coming out of the $50,000 Niagara Stakes,
rallied as much the best to take today's wide-open $17,100 featured eighth race
by almost four lengths. Trained by Rafael G. Rohena Sr, Celtic Kettle tracked
Karakorum Katie in that 6 furlong Niagara Stakes on July 12 but faded some to
finish a respectable fourth. Prior to that solid effort, the three year old
filly by Kettle Won finished strongly going six furlongs to miss by neck to
the good now Rain Delay. Today's test at six furlongs was for wide-open fillies
and mares which had never won two races. Seven rivals reached the starting gate
with Jonathan Buckley's trained entry of Speak Proudly and Tomorrows Gal the
even money choice. Mitre Box Stable's Speak Proudly was shipping in from Belmont
Park where she was coming off of a one mile turf test carrying $35,000 claiming
tags. In that race, Speak Proudly showed the way to the quarter pole and then
could not sustain the drive and faded to run sixth to Make it Come True. She's
Precise with Jose Osorio up, got his mount to break in stride and stopped the
timer for the first quarter in 22.28. She's Precise widened on the turn and
put three lengths on Speak Proudly and Tomorrows Gal with the half mile clicked
off in 45.62. In the meantime, Celtic Kettle was saving all the ground on the
turn and then was eased out for the drive by jockey Rafael Rohena Jr. She's
Precise looked home-free with a four length advantage and only a furlong to
go. Rohena got Celtic Kettle to switch leads and they collared She's Precise
in gear. Celtic Kettle then drew off to impressive three and three-quarters
of a length score. She's Precise finished second best by two lengths over the
late running Freud Ian Girl in third. The Rohena Sr trained runner covered the
distance over a fast track in 1:11.89 and earned $10,260. Bred by Anstu Farm
LLC., the three year old filly by Kettle
Won out of Celtic Twang by It's Freezing now has a pair of wins out of 16
tries and $37,910 in money won. Also the two time winner qualified for $1,260
in breeders' awards.
8/2/08, Fly to Me rallies to capture $50,000 Artic Queen Handicap by Matt Church
 Photo: Tom Cooley Photography |
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Langpap Stable's FLY TO ME responded when asked and closed determinedly to nail 3 to 5 favorite Sweet Lorena on the wire for a head decision in today's $50,000 Arctic Queen Handicap. This rallying tally by Fly to Me was her first on the year and what a nice time to do it. The five year old mare by Belong to Me got the money last year in the $50,000 Jack Betta Be Rite Handicap on August 25 with an almost four length decision going around two turns. The Langpap owned runner came into the this dash with 9 career wins and $292,281 in earnings. Today's contest was restricted to fillies and mares bred in New York State with Carmen Sequin's Sweet Lorena the odds on chalk at 3 to 5 and carrying highweight of 122 pounds. Trained by Michael S. Ferraro, Sweet Lorena has had a very salty career so far. The four year old filly by Langfuhr has won eight times in only 12 career starts with three seconds and one third. Seven well matched rivals were set to start with Cleverly Regal the quickest of them all. Trained by Daniel H. Conway Jr, Cleverly Regal broke in stride and opened up a very quick three length advantage over Sweet Lorena with the first fraction going in 21.73. Sweet Lorena moved to collar Cleverly Regal nearing the quarter pole with the half mile clocked in 45.36. In the meantime, Fly to Me entered the lane four wide and appeared in gear. But, Sweet Lorena put Cleverly Regal away and opened up a four length lead with a furlong remaining. Meanwhile, Watral's Dahlia was making a solid run from last and then was shut off in midstretch and took up sharply losing all chance. Fly to Me was a half length in front of Street Sass and four lengths behind Sweet Lorena. Fly to Me responded readily to Davila's whip and closed determinedly to nail Sweet Lorena on the line while also holding the fast closing Street Sass safe to capture the $50,000 Arctic Queen Handicap by a head. Fly to Me covered the distance over good track in 1:11.30 and earned $30,000. Bred by Dennis and Deborah Petrisak, the four year old filly by Belong to Me out of Flying Nightengale by Clever Trick now has ten career wins out of 29 starts and $322,861 in money won. Also the rallying winner qualified for $3,000 in breeders' awards.
8/1/08, Lovely Daniella earns diploma in $22,800 "MSW" by Matt Church
Carmen
Sequin's first time starter LOVELY DANIELLA, took command into the straight
and then went on to earn her diploma with a five and three-quarter length romp
in the park. Trained by the Wiley veteran Michael S. Ferraro and ridden to victory
by Pedro A. Rodriguez, Lovely Daniella looked the part in the post parade and
returned $8.30. Today's maiden allowance race at six furlongs was restricted
to fillies and mares with Langpap Stable's Sheownsthemoment the $1.25 to 1 favorite.
Trained by M. Anthony Ferraro, Sheownsthemoment finished a very respectable
fifth in the $Niagara Stakes on July 12 to Karakorum Katie. Also being respected
at the windows was Betty Jean Murphy's I Think I'm N Love. Trained by James
T. Wright, I Think I'm N Love was making her second start on the year after
missing by a length and one-half in her debut on July 19. In that race, the
three year old filly by Not for Love, moved to even terms with the leader with
a furlong to go but could not sustain her bid and then weakened some late to
finish third. Ten rivals were in the gate with Emily Schoenman's Tri to Bea
Early rushed out and covered the opening quarter in 22.50 with Emmas Moon Star
to the inside and Sheownsthemoment to the outside. Meanwhile, Lovely Daniella
was gaining ground with every stride and collared Tri to Bea Early at the top
of the lane. Sheownsthemoment was dropping back while the half mile was clicked
off in 46.34. Lovely Daniella kicked clear by two lengths with a furlong to
go and then widened like a good thing to get the money by almost six lengths.
Tri to Bea Early finished well to secure the place by three lengths over Grizzly
Madam in third. Lovely Daniella covered the distance over a fast track in 1:12.08
and earned 13,680. Bred by Stonewall Farm, the three year old filly by Gold
Token out of Chasing Lightning by Belong to Me Also qualified for $2,736 in
breeders' awards.
7/29/08, Yet Again scores for fun in $21,000 NW1X by Matt Church
Seahorse
Stable's YET AGAIN collared Regal Playtime in upper stretch and then
drew clear to score in today's $21,000 NW1X sixth race by six and one-quarter
lengths. Trained by Karl M. Grusmark, this was Yet Again's third win out of
her last four start. The three year old filly by Catienus shipped in here from
Laurel Racecourse and got the money on June 30. That score was over a field
of never won three allowance types at one mile and seventy yards. The Grusmark
trained runner came back with NW2X with an optional claiming price of $10,000
on July 20 where she finished a solid second to runaway winner Cherna. Today's
contest at one mile and seventy yards was restricted to fillies and mares which
had never won a state-bred race other than. Yet Again was 3 to 5 favorite in
a field of six. Taking some action at $3.80 to 1 was Playtime Stable's Regal
Playtime. Trained by Charlton Baker, Regal Playtime was coming off a five and
one-half furlong test where she failed to fire and finished fourth to Rock N
Roll Beat. Regal Playtime came into the this test with four career wins and
$100,387 in earning. Regal Playtime with the hot riding Dennis Carr aboard,
got his mount to break in stride and the pair got the opening fraction in 24.65.
In pursuit was Yet Again and Winloc's Hail Mary. Regal Playtime continued on
dictating the pace with the half mile clocked in 48.77 and then stopped the
timer for six furlongs in 1:13.89. Yet Again was gaining with every stride and
collared Regal Playtime in upper stretch. Yet Again took a quick length lead
and then widened under the whip to score by just over six lengths. Regal Playtime
finished second best by almost six lengths over Super Diva in third. Yet Again
covered the distance over a fast racing strip in 1:44.66 and earned $12,600.
Bred by Dr. Cary Shapoff, the three year old daughter of Catienus out of Folly
Go Rightly by Distinctive Pro now has four career wins out of only 13 starts
and $84,995 in money won. Also the good now filly qualified for $1,260 in breeders'
awards.
7/28/08, Majestic Karakorum captures $20,900 feature by Matt Church
Sheila
R. Englehart's MAJESTIC KARAKORUM rallied to take the lead late and then
narrowly outran Ernie's Choice to take today's $20.900 featured eighth race
by a whisker. Trained by Chris Englehart, Majestic Karakorum was coming off
a fourth place finish as the 3 to 5 favorite on July 14. In that test, the Englehart
trained runner chased Burn One Turn One throughout and then weakened to miss
by almost two lengths. Today's contest at six furlongs was for three year olds
and upward which had never won two state-bred races other than with an optional
claiming price of $10,000. Nine rivals were ready to go including a Michael
A. Lecesse trained entry of Freddy the Cap and Poker Joe. The entry was the
luke warm favorite at $2.40 to 1. Prior to this eighth race, all but one race
had been decided in wire-to-wire fashion. Not either one of Michael A. Lecesse
trained runners has any speed what so ever as of late. Second choice in the
wagering at $3.15 to 1 was Jeffrey Tucker's Ernie's Choice. Trained by John
Morrison, Ernie's Choice has finished second or third in his last six starts.
Thirteen Mil broke in stride and quickly put two lengths on Cured with the opening
fraction going down in a very quick 21.49. Thirteen Mil was joined at the top
of the lane by Cured with the half mile clicked off in 44.84. Majestic Karakorum
was making a run while entering the lane four wide. Thirteen Mil and Cured were
battling heads apart with Majestic Karakorum gaining with every stride. Majestic
Karakorum put the front-runners away the nearing the sixteenth pole and then
was able to turn back the fast closing Ernie's Choice for a nose decision. Rocket
Booster closed well to earn a share. The Lecesse trainee's finished sixth and
last. Majestic Karakorum covered the distance over a fast track in 1:11.40 and
earned $12,540. Bred by Thomas Dushas, the six year old gelded son of Distinctive
Pro out of Light Bright Heart by Majestic Light now has five wins out of 29
starts and $122,705 in money won. Also, Majestic Karakorum qualified for $2,508
in breeders awards.
7/27/08, Guts Game makes it two straight in $20,900 feature by Matt Church
Little
Red Feather Racing's GUTS GAME collared even money favorite Citrine in
midstretch and then drew off like a good thing to take today's $20,900 featured
eighth race by six and one-quarter lengths. Trained by John Tebbutt, Guts Game
shipped in from Belmont Park and rallied to down a field of never won three
allowance types going five and one-half furlongs by almost a length. That test
was on June 8 and over fast racing strip. Today's contest six furlongs was restricted
to fillies and mares which had never won two state-bred races other than with
an optional $10,000 claiming price. Seven fillies and mares were ready to break
from the gate with My Purple Haze Stable's Citrine the even money chalk. The
Chris Englehart trained runner was returning home after finishing a tiring fifth
with wide-open $25,000 claimers at Presque Isle Downs. Prior to that disappointment,
Citrine rattled off two straight here in wire-to-wire fashion. Both scores were
over NW1X and NW2X state-breds. Citrine with leading jockey John Davila Jr in
the irons, broke suddenly and put a length on Guts Game with the opening quarter
clicked off in 22.21. Citrine was collared by Guts Game nearing the quarter
pole and they entered the lane heads apart. The half mile was clocked in 45.13.
The two opened up a six length cushion over Jackies Dream and Past Post with
a furlong to go. Guts Game responded to Elaine Castillo's urging and the duo
drew off through the final sixteenth proving clearly the best by just over six
lengths. Citrine narrowly lasted for the place over Jackies Dream in third.
Guts Game got the distance over a fast track in 1:10.92 and earned $12,540.
Bred by JMJ Racing Stable's, LLC, the four year old filly by Officer out of
Genteel World by Spinning World now has four career wins out of only 14 tries
and $103,736 in money won. Also, the good now runner qualified for $1,254 in
breeders' awards.
7/26/08, Tara Drive wires 7 at 16 to 1 in $20,500 feature by Matt Church
Dominic
Tedeschi's TARA DRIVE took the lead from the outset and never looked
back to score at 16 to 1 in today's $20,500 featured eighth race by four and
three-quarters of a length. Trained by Joseph Raposa, Tare Drive was coming
off a wire-to-wire performance but over a field of never won two races with
$7,500 claiming tags. Today's contest at six furlongs was restricted to fillies
and mares which had never won a state-bred race other than. Seven rivals were
set to start with Charles and Joseph Loiacano's Majestic Lori the even money
favorite. Trained by Joseph E. Marino, Majestic Lori comes into this dash with
a 2008 record of 2 seconds, 2 thirds and $11,637 in earnings. In her most recent
race on July 14 with NW1X going five and one-half furlongs, Majestic Lori was
right there throughout but could not get to Rock N Roll Beat and had to settle
for the place. Tara Drive with Jose Gutierrez up, broke his mount in stride
and got the first quarter in 22.49 with Night Cracker along side. Tara Drive
put Night Cracker away on the turn and got the half mile in 45.84. The Marino
trained runner enteredthe stretch with a two length lead. Night Cracker was
chasing with a furlong to go and Majestic Lori finding her best stride on the
outside. Tara Drive responded when roused and drew off the get the money by
almost five lengths. Majestic Lori finished second over Tally Me Out in third.
Night Cracker broke down leaving the eighth pole and then was humanely destroyed.
Tara Drive covered the distance over a fast track in 1:11.91 and earned $12,300.
Bred by Monhill Farm, LLC, the five year old mare by Jambalaya Jazz out of Tincture
of Time by Cormorant now has 3 wins out of 21 starts and $52,251 in money won.
Also the front-running winner qualified for $1,230 in breeders' awards.
7/20/08, Mr. Windjammer upsets in $50,000 Ontario County Stakes by Matt Church
 Photo: Tom Cooley Photography |
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Stonegate Racing Stable's MR. WINDJAMMER rallied at 8 to 1 to take the lead late and then was going away at the end to capture today's $50,000 Ontario County Stakes by a length and one-half. Trained by Jonathan Buckley, Mr. Windjammer was coming off a solid rallying score in his most recent on June 16. That length and one-quarter victory was over a field of never won four allowance types going five and one-half furlongs. Prior to today's tally, the three year old gelded son of Regal Classic has only been out three times this year and sports a record of two wins, one second and $24,180 in earnings. Today's 25th Running of The Ontario County Stakes was restricted to three year olds bred in New York State and going six furlongs. Seven rivals were eager to run with Maggi Moss' Monmouth Park invader Pocatello was made the 3 to 5 choice by the $2,033 on hand. Trained by Bruce N. Levine, Pocatello shipped in here after besting a group of wide-open $60,000 claimers going six furlongs at Monmouth Park by a length and one-half. Prior to that tally, the three year old gelding by City Zip wired a field of NW2X over the Belmont Park main strip by just over two lengths. Pocatello with leading rider John Davila Jr astride, got his mount to break alertly and matched strides for the opening quarter in 21.81 with Barnfox. Barnfox kept a half length lead over Pocatello to the quarter pole with the half mile clocked in a very quick 44.81. Meanwhile, Barossa was only two lengths back in third and appeared ready to roll at any time. Barossa collared the leaders in midstretch and looked like a winner. But, Mr. Windjammer was finding his best stride and was only length back in fourth. Mr. Windjammer collared Barossa in gear and then outran the late running Be Bullish to win by a length and one-half. Pocatello finished a half length behind Be Bullish in third. Mr. Windjammer covered the distance over sealed good strip in 1:11.64 and earned $30,000. Bred by Stonebridge Farm, the three year old gelding by Regal Classic out of Royal Relic by Colonial Affair now has four career wins out of only seven starts and $72,800 in money won. Regal Classic stood at McMahon of Saratoga Thoroughbreds, LLC in Saratoga Springs, New York. The Ontario County Stakes winner qualified for $6,000 in breeders' awards.
7/19/08, Kiss the Cruiser keeps win skein intact in $21,300 feature by Matt Church
Donall
Fingleton and Joseph Moloney's KISS THE CRUISER outran Sizzling Saint
to the wire to take today's $21,300 featured sixth race by a neck. Trained by
Jon Buckley, this was Kiss the Cruiser's third straight score here at Finger
Lakes gaming and racetrack. The four year old gelding by Intidab shipped in
from Aqueduct and ran with never won four allowance types on June 2 going five
and one-half furlongs. In that dash, Kiss the Cruiser was let go at 5 to 1 and
finished sixth. That was his first start since finishing seventh on October
28 over the main track at Aqueduct. Since that race, Kiss the Cruiser has been
unbeatable. Including today's stellar performance, Kiss the Cruiser has won
his last three starts by a combined total of almost six lengths. Today's test
going six furlongs was restricted to three year olds and upward which had never
won three state-bred races other than. Six rivals were set to start with Kiss
the Cruiser the chalk at 4 to 5. Sent off as the second choice at $3.50 to 1
was Arnie Chusid's Pinky Freud. Trained by Michael S. Ferraro, Pinky Freud was
making his second start on the year. In his opener on June 20 with wide-open
$20,000 claimers going five and one-half one-half furlongs, Pinky Freud forced
the issue to the lane but faded some to finish third beaten four and one-half
lengths to Specchio. Pinky Freud with Jeremias Flores in the saddle and Rob's
Boy Mat got the opening fraction in 22.72 with Sizzling Saint tracking in third.
The pair continued on setting the pace while stopping the timer for the half
mile in 46.03. Meanwhile, Sizzling Saint was let loose by Dennis Carr and was
only three lengths back with a quarter of mile to run. Rob's Boy Mat put Pinky
Freud away and opened up a length with a furlong to go. Kiss the Cruiser quickly
got in the race and was on even terms with Sizzling Saint a length back. The
pair went on by Rob's Boy Mat like he was tied and then Kiss the Cruiser outran
Sizzling Saint to the line for a neck decision. Soulshine finished third while
Rob's Boy Mat checked in fourth. Kiss the Cruiser covered the distance over
a fast track in 1:11.35 and earned $12,780. Bred by Mallory Mort, the four year
old gelded son of Intidab out of Kiss the Judge by Judge Smells, now has six
career wins out of 15 starts and sports a bankroll of $115,884. Also, the running
machine qualified for $2,556 in breeders' awards.
7/18/08, Hidden Expense proves best in wide-open 17,700 feature by Matt Church
My
Purple Haze Stable's HIDDEN EXPENSE collared the leaders in midstretch
and under steady pressure outran Boston Chief to the line to take today's wide-open
$17,700 featured eighth race by three-quarters of a length. Ridden to victory
by Rafael Rohena Jr and trained by Bruce D. Anderson, today's score was Hidden
Expense's first of the year. The four year old gelding by Sea of Secrets last
raced on June 16 with never won four allowance types over a good track going
six furlongs where he finished third to the good now Kiss the Cruiser. Since
that defeat, Hidden Expense has been working lights out in the morning. The
Anderson trainee posted a bullet workout by besting sixteen others on July 8
with 1.00.40 breezing five furlongs. Today's contest was for wide-open three
year olds and upward which had never won four races going six furlongs. Six
well matched rivals were set to go with Hidden Expense the $1.85 to 1 choice.
Second choice in the wagering at $1.90 to 1 was Francis J. Paolangeli's Boston
Chief. Saddled by Charlton Baker, Boston Chief was in search of his second straight
tally. The three year old colt by Chief Seattle downed a field of 7 never won
three with $12,500 claiming tags in wire-to-wire fashion by almost four lengths.
Trainer Baker haltered Boston Chief two races back for a mere $7,500. Boston
Chief with the hot riding Dennis Carr in the irons, got his mount on the Bill
Daily with the opening quarter clicked off in 22.33. Tracking in second was
Life Runner. Life Runner collared Boston Chief at the top of the lane with the
half mile timed in 45.44. The pair entered the lane heads apart and were soon
joined by Hidden Expense on the outside with a furlong to go. Hidden Expense
and Boston Chief battled to the wire with Hidden Expense edging clear late to
get the money by three-quarters of a length. Life Runner finished third. Hidden
Expense covered the distance over a fast track in 1:11.46 and earned $10,620.
Bred by Thomas/Lakin/Kintz, the four year old gelded son of Sea of Secrets out
of Yamila's Jewels by Cox's Ridge now has four career wins out of 14 tries and
$64,039 in the bank. Hidden Expense also qualified for $1,620 in breeders' awards.
7/15/08, Celestial Flight makes amends in $21,000 feature by Matt Church
Francis
J. Paolangeli's CELESTIAL FLIGHT broke sharply and made every pole a
winning one to take today's $21,000 featured eighth race by thirteen and one-half
lengths. This was Celestial Flight's first score of the year. Robert D. Bone's
Explosive Impact was made the 8 to 5 morning line choice by track oddsmaker
Carl Anderson. Trained by leading conditioner Chris Englehart, Explosive Impact
contested the lead in his last with NW1X going one mile and seventy yards to
midstretch and then faltered in the late stages and finished third beaten two
and one-half lengths to Tickets to Fly. Explosive Impact comes into the this
dash with a record of 2 wins, 4 seconds, 2 thirds and $43,727 in money earned.
Also, Carl Anderson thought highly of Francis J. Paolangeli's Celestial Flight
by making her the second choice at 2 to 1. Trained by Charlton Baker, Celestial
Flight has had only one trip over this year and that was on May 25 with never
won four allowance types going six furlongs were the five year old by mare A.
P. Jet bled. Celestial Flight was the 8 to 5 favorite in that dash, but after
a couple of bullet workouts to her credit the three time winner appears ready
to make amends. Celestial Flight will again have the riding services of the
hot riding Dennis Carr. Today's contest at one mile and seventy yards was restricted
to fillies and mares which had never won a state-bred race other than. Seven
well trained rivals were ready to go with Celestial Flight bet down to $1.10
to 1 while Explosive Impact went off at $3.25 to 1. Celestial Flight broke alertly
and got the first quarter in 23.53 with Explosive Impact a half length back
along the inside. Celestial Flight continued on setting the fractions with the
half mile clicked off in 47.45 and then stopped the timer for six furlongs in
1:12.60. The Baker trainee entered the straight with a three length lead over
Explosive Impact and eight over Lookn Boldn Brassy. Lookn Boldn Brassy was making
a run while Explosive Impact was backing up with Celestial Flight pouring it
on. Celestial Flight coasted home proving clearly the best today by thirteen
and one-half lengths over Lookn Boldn Brassy in second. Explosive Impact finished
third. Celestial Flight covered the distance over a fast track in 1:43.56 and
earned 12,600. Bred by Lauren Canady DVM, the five year old mare by A. P. Jet
out of Saratoga Isle by Erins Isle (IRE) now has four career wins out of only
11 starts and $61,257 in money won. Also the wire-to-wire winner qualified for
$2,520 in breeders' awards.
7/14/08, Burn One Turn One rallies to make it 3 straight in $20,900 feature by Matt Church
Maggi
Moss' BURN ONE TURN ONE came from off the pace to nail Thirteen Mil on
the wir