Sunday, February 3, 2013 |
Coming off an impressive debut on January 1st, Verrazano cruised to vcitory in the 5th race at Gulfstream Park yesterday afternoon to win an allowance race by an astonishing 16 1/4 lengths with jockey John Velazquez in the irons.
With two scratches in the race, only five colts would load the gate. Away cleanly from post position 4, Verrazano and Velazquez found good rhythm early, content to let Gunderman (2) take the lead through an opening quarter mile in 22.94.
Traveling well down the backstretch about 1/2 length back off the pacesetter, Verrazano quickly narrowed the gap after a half mile in 45.45, taking a short lead through the far turn. Riding up in the saddle as they turned for home, Velazquez urged Verrazano who quickly opend up on the field, drawing off to win by daylight. The final time was 1:34.80 for the mile.
We're obviously thrilled with the result, and think very highly of Verrazano. We'll keep our options open for now and look forward to entering the Kentucky Derby Championship Series!
To watch a Race Replay CLICK HERE