This looked to be an evenly matched field and both the tote board and the finish proved that correct.  With a post time favorite of nearly 5/1 and the winner going off a 6/1, the Foster Hcp (GI) [BC] sure did prove to be a dozy of a race.  In the end, Hardline proved that he’s still as relevant as ever… even if he did just change barns for a handsome $600.000.  Sitting mid-pack for most of this one, he moved up quickly into the lane and went on to take this important race by two lengths in a final time of 1:47.35 for the mile and an eighth distance.  Niagra once again proved to be a worth opponent, getting the second spot a neck in front of Yeti Strong.

Hardline is a 5yo grey entire by Pink Panther – Jezebels Shadow, by  Shadow Rider, and he was bred in California by Kopites.  Now owned by Our Athletes, proving that this was a very shrewd purchase, he has nine lifetime wins from twenty-eight starts and earnings of $3766.800, with $580.000 of that coming this season.  Perhaps he coming back to the form that won the BC Dirt Mile (GI) last season… let’s hope so!

$2 Mutuel Prices:

Track: Fast        Time: :46¹  1:10   1:34⁴  1:47¹
$1 Exacta: 5 – 2 Paid 83.20 $1 Trifecta: 5 – 2 – 6 Paid 210.00
Scratched: Moms Royalty, Mystery Boy

Hardline sat unhurried mid-pack, responded when asked to hit the front end at the top of the lane, won driving.  Niagra disputed the pace throughout, could not keep pace with the winner in the late stages.  Yeti Strong rated back between horses, pressed forward into the stretch, out kicked from there.  Royal Prodigy broke alertly, up close to the lane, could not keep pace.  Generals Companion rated back off of the pace, not a factor.  Flashee Time never involved.  Rajivs Roadblock outrun.  Pinnacle West in contention for six furlongs, tired.  Viking Shield sent from the gate to set the pace for a half, headed, folded. Unsuited dull effort.

Categories: Grade I