Mabou, a surprise winner in 2011 New York Turf Writers Cup Steeplechase Handicap
Mabou’s victory in the New York Turf Writers Cup Steeplechase Handicap was one of the biggest upsets last year. Trained by David Jacobson, the gelding was carrying the lowest odds following a couple of terrible defeats at the start of his career.
It was Mabou’s debut appearance at the highest level, and the pressure was huge. Despite the presence of many dangerous runners in the line-up, the son of Dynaformer kept his nerves calm, and ran superbly all the way through.
He did a very fine job on Saratoga’s turf, staying at good pace throughout the race. Under Robert Walsh, he outclassed the big guns like Divine Fortune and Decoy Daddy to produce a shocking outcome.
It was certainly a terrible day for Divine Fortune, who was the most preferred runner at Saratoga last season. Ahead of his trouncing in the 2011 New York Turf Writers Cup Steeplechase Handicap, the Jonathan E. Sheppard-trained sealed a comprehensive victory
in the Grade 2 A. P. Smithwick Memorial Steeplechase.
It was such a magnificent win that the bookmakers had no other option, but to give him the highest respect. However, he completely failed to live up to the expectations, and finished sixth on the table.
Decoy Daddy’s poor effort was also a big disappointment. Bred by Charles Persse, the gelding was second to Divine Fortune in the A. P. Smithwick Memorial Steeplechase.
Despite the fact that a good performance gave him plenty of confidence, he was unable to continue the good work in last year’s big meeting. He failed to do anything special and as a result, completed the order of finish.
On the other hand, Dirar did well to secure the second spot. Although the son of King’s Best remained unsuccessful in putting up a challenge for the leading runner, he did a decent job to beat Dynaski, who is Mabou’s half brother. He made the best advantage
of the situation, and managed to end up among top three position holders.
Mabou caused a huge upset by securing the top rank by 5¾ lengths. The spectators at Saratoga have every reason to anticipate an equally dramatic event this season, scheduled to take place on August 23rd.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are the writer's own and do not reflect Bettor.Com’s editorial policy.
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