Graduation Stakes
5 1/2 Furlongs Dirt Stake Purse $100.00 Open 2 Year Olds Foaled In CA.
1st Chaiworld, trained by Team 7 illusions
There was a lot to like about the way this son of Chai Chicken picked up off a very strong pace and went away to win this by three quarters of a length. Winning in a time that older more established sprinting stars would be happy with he looks like one of the stars of early season sprinting and with just three nicely spaced races I feel the best is yet to come.
2nd Ideal Pretender, trained by Barcelona Farms
Last time out over this trip he was put on the pace and weakened late but this time those tactics were reviewed and a more restrained approach saw him hitting the line strongly. Out run by the winner in the end this was a much better run and confirms the stable confidence that he is up to taking a race like this before long.
3rd Spend A Buck, trained by Kingelleinc
Drawn wide he was sent into the inevitable lead by the outside speed push and as often happens he found it too tough late on. Having said that he set a very fast pace and was only beaten a length on the line so this was a pretty good effort, especially considering it was his first black type attempt.
4th Classy Ruler, trained by End Run Farm
Travelled well and looked dangerous in the stretch but once again failed to finish off his race. If he ever runs like he works he will be very good but this is the third time in a row he has been found wanting when put under the whip.
5th Academy Danzer
Stalked the fast pace but weakened late only beaten a couple of lengths in the end. He may have needed the run after a break since his debut so we can give him another chance down the line
6th Honor Grades
Trailed the field but couldn’t get on terms and finished sixth. I was always worried that this trip would be too sharp for him and I feel he will be better over six plus.
7th Surely Greasecan
Was close enough early on but ran pretty badly in the end to be last.
Categories: STAKES ARTICLES, Ungraded
