The Forward Gal Stakes- Grade III
GP Race 7 7F Dirt
Purse $200.000 For Fillies
Three Years Old
1st Yesterbae, trained by Mb Stables
Broke well and took up a position on the rail three lengths off the leader. Maintained that spot all the way down the backstretch and around the turn. Started accelerating as they entered the stretch and was fortunate to have a wide-open rail to run up. Took the lead with a furlong to go and pulled away for an easy victory.
2nd Beat To The Punch, trained by Mb Stables
Ceded some ground at the start in order to get into the 2 path about five lengths from the lead. Stayed there down the back stretch and moved a bit wider as they entered the turn to avoid his stablemate who was backing up. Continued to angle out around the turn and was about 4 wide as they entered the stretch. Came down the middle of the track never threatening the winner but was able to hold the place.
3rd Manifest, trained by Mb Stables
Broke well and raced next to Yesterbae for the first quarter mile. Started backing up as they raced down the backstretch and by the time they got to the turn had reached the back of the pack, 7 lengths from the front. Moved to the far outside as they entered the stretch and managed to gain the show.
4th British Chai, trained by Mo Mentum Farm
Dropped back and got to the rail racing just inside of Beat To The Punch. Was able to save ground for the entire trip and followed the winners move up the rail. Was never a threat to the top three but picked up a minor check.
Summary
The lively pace I anticipated in the preview came to fruition as Fear The Greatness set faster fractions than we would see with the boys in The Swale. Mb’s three headed monster all took slightly different tactics with Yesterbae getting the dream trip while Manifest had a bit of an adventure to get the show. Beat To The Punch may have needed this one before we see her best effort but ran very well none the less. The trainers of Quiver Pond, Bora Bora, Fear The Greatness & Diplomatic Chaos will have to reflect on this race and figure out where to take their charges next after disappointing efforts.
Categories: Grade III, STAKES ARTICLES
