Fort Larned claims a shock Grade 1 victory in the Whitney Handicap at Saratoga
The Ian Wilkes trained, Fort Larned, made his connections proud with the first Grade 1 victory of his career, when he upset the Grade 1 Whitney Handicap at Saratoga on 4th August, 2012, with rider Brian Hernandez Jr. aboard.
The four-year-old, paired with his talented, swiftly took over the 1 1/8-mile track and downed the favoured, Ron the Greek by a convincing margin of 1 ¼ lengths.
The third place was secured by Ron the Greek’s stable-mate, Flat Out, who finished a head behind the runner-up.
The race was exciting, as the early pace was set by Endorsement, who was followed by Trickmeister, while Fort Larned stalked them in third place. Endorsement completed the opening quarter-mile in 23.42 seconds, and crossed the half-mile marker in 46.97
seconds.
Eoin Harty trainee led for six furlongs, which he completed in 1 minute and 10.86 seconds with Trickmeister and Fort Larned in hot pursuit. After this, Fort Larned decided to take control and did most of the work.
Encouraged by Brian Hernandez, he took the lead and maintained it entering the final furlong, where he led by four lengths.
The rider relaxed slightly at this point, giving Ron the Greek an opportunity to catch up. The two were in contention in the closing stages of the race, but it was Fort Larned who prevailed, completing the race in 1 minute and 47.76 seconds.
The son of E Dubai, foaled by mare Arlucea, now holds an overall record of 7-2-0 in 17 starts, and this major victory has established him as a great runner.
Trainer Ian Wilkes was immensely pleased with the victory of the bay colt. He appreciated the effort the rider put into it as well as he told the press:
"I was very pleased. Brian did a tremendous job; first time over this track. He rode a perfect race and moved him at the right time. He put some open lengths between him and the closers."
Trainer Bill Mott who trains the runner-up and the third place finisher was also pleased with the outcome of the race as he said:
"They were head and head coming down the lane, and both horses ran well and tried hard.”
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