The GP Oaks- Grade II

GP Race 7 1 1/16M Dirt

Purse $250.000 For Fillies 

Three Years Old

1 Beat To The Punch, trained by Mb Stables

Broke well and was able to get an advantageous position just off the rail as they moved into the first turn. Raced three lengths from the two pacesetters through quick fractions down the backstretch. Started to advance on the leaders as they rounded the far turn and stuck her head in front at the top of the stretch. Pulled away through the stretch and was able to comfortably hold off a hard charging On The Square.

2 On The Square, trained by Crocker Ggs

Jockey took back from the start and by the time they existed the first turn she was last on the rail trailing by 7 lengths. Advanced slowly down the back stretch and was five from the front as they entered the far turn. Swung wide around the turn and charged down the middle of the track, was never a serious threat to the winner but was able to get up for second.

3 Home Cookin, trained by Mb Stables

Caught three wide around the first turn and dropped to six lengths off the lead. Moved up to within 4 lengths as they entered the far turn. Had a clear path down the middle of the track and looked like a winner but could not keep pass with her stablemate and was caught for the place.

4 Quakerce, trained by Sir Daniel Martin

Pushed out of the gate and was able to get over to the rail before getting to the first turn. Raced just inside of Harsh as they went through a fast first half mile. Took over the lead as they rounded the turn but was caught as they entered the stretch. Was no match for the top three but held on for a small reward.

Summary

Beat To The Punch stamped herself a serious Oaks contender with a very impressive performance here. On The Square was also impressive in defeat as her trip was less than ideal so I expect her to be an Oaks contender as well. Home Cookin may not want to go this war as she flattened out late and Quakerce will probably be back on the turf next out.

Categories: Grade II, STAKES ARTICLES