The National Museum of Racing – Grade III
1 1/16 Mile Inner Turf Stake Purse $200.000 Open 3 Year Olds.
1st Ponder, trained by Chili King Stables
I suspected this trip would suit Ponder after a couple of attempts over further and that certainly proved the case as the gelding never faltered in winning this race by a length. This is a bit of a return from the wilderness for him after a few weaker efforts but I think he is essentially a miler and he may keep on improving into a fairly useful turf router.
2nd Sandor Clegane, trained by Smithtown Stables
He was very well fancied after his great second in the American Derby and ran a very sound race to be second again. Clearly much improved he looked well held by the winner but must be closing in on a graded stakes win after this repeat and should be kept firmly on yoru watch lists
3rd Performing Arts, trained by Blushing Meadows
Was at big odds as he hadn’t got any stakes form and was drawn in the car park but ran a cracker to be a hard closing third. It will be interesting to see how he goes in this company with a better draw.
4th Pink N Prudent, trained by Drabfantasy
Stalked the lead and looked to be going well but when he went up to win his race he was found wanting and was a little disappointing in fourth place, It looks as if his trainer still has a few questions unanswered with this one so I will put him back on the back burner until he can put a couple together.
5th Lompoc Bay
Made the running but as tends to happen these days that is a kiss of death. He probably ended up where his form put him so I don’t think connections will be too disappointed.
6th Rogue Warrior
Faced another stiff task and whilst he ran another fair race he really doesn’t look like he is up to this grade.
7th Wealth Manager
Made no real show and this one may find himself at a fair track soon for some experimental racing.
8th O Bay O
Ran well enough early on but faded badly into last place and will benefit in a drop in grade.
Categories: Grade III, STAKES ARTICLES
