The first graded stakes of the year for 2 year olds saw a collection of top tier trainers and their prized two year olds. The 6F sprint at Churchill Down saw a slew of usual suspects atop the tote board.

Out of the gate, Paco shot to the front with Perfect Secrets, Hilarity, and Two Time racing tightly together just behind. In the mid pack behind that group, Orange Chicken was ahead of Run It Back and Shook.

Rounding out the field in the back, Come With Assets settled in ahead of the trailers, who throughout the race didn’t show much effort after falling behind.

Around the turn, Paco started to weaken and Hilarity was quick to move forward at the top of the stretch, getting onto the lead. Two Time held position at the front, never threatening as he saw Orange Chicken zip past on the inside.

Come With Assets and Sycamore Sling were the only horses from the back of the field to move forward and threaten. Assets slowly got past Perfect Secrets, Paco, and Shook– finally out bobbing Two Time to claim third. Sycamore Sling was too far back for a late move to work, finishing 6th as he was unable to get past Perfect Secrets before the wire.

But the real excitement was Orange Chicken trying to run down Hilarity at the wire. The favorite would fall a nose short as the wire came just in time for Hilarity to claim victory.

1st – Hilarity – Trained by Mb Stables: Claims the first graded stakes of the year for two year olds. This colt by Fire N Fury now has the jump on clinching a BC Juvenile birth and I’m sure we’ll be seeing more of him come August/September. Congrats to Dan at Mb Stables on a well deserved victory.

2nd – Orange Chicken – Trained by Arindel: Who has to be pleased despite coming up a nose short. This high octane gelding ran a solid race and showed a move near the end that suggests added distance will be welcomed, proving yet again this is a young talent to keep your eyes on.

3rd – Come With Assets – Trained by Harrell: This Asset Class colt showed plenty of heart as it was one of the few on the back end of the field to press forward. Harrell has plenty to work with whether it be added distance or a chance in position tactics.

4th – Two Time – Trained by Jive Inc. – The auction bargain held on for fourth, while never threatening for the win. Rather he ran a three wide trip and was all out to hold on to fourth.

Categories: Grade III, STAKES ARTICLES