Questing succeeds for McLaughlin, Ortiz in the TVG Coaching Club American Oaks at Saratoga
Godolphin’s, Questing, was led to the first Grade 1 victory of her career in the TVG Coaching Club American Oaks at Saratoga on 21st July, 2012, where she briskly conquered the 1 1/8 mile track in 1 minute and 50.30 seconds
under rider, Irad Ortiz, Jr.
The daughter of Hard Spun, out of mare Chercheuse, finished 4 ¼ lengths ahead of the Thomas Albertrani trained, Zo Impressive, whereas the third place was secured by race favourite In Lingerie, who is under the training of Todd Pletcher.
The early lead was taken by the Jose Garoffalo charge’s Yara, who was mounted by Joel Rosario and completed the first quarter-mile in 23.21 seconds.
Questing made her move after the first turn and, took the lead after the half-mile marker, which she downed in 47.65 seconds.
Trained by Kiaran McLaughlin, the sophomore maintained her lead and completed three quarters of a mile in 1 minute and 12.20 seconds and clocked a mile in 1 minute and 37.16 seconds.
Trainer Kiaran McLaughlin appreciated the effort of the winning jockey as he told the press:
"He rode an excellent race for a 19-year-old kid. We thought we were faster than Yara, but he said, and we talked about it, 'If she goes, let her go.' And he rode a great race. He used good judgment, he did everything right."
Chances are that Questing will compete in the Grade 1, $600,000 Alabama Stakes at Saratoga on 18th August, 2012, where she might encounter, Zo Impressive again.
Trainer Thomas Albertrani commented on the runner-up’s race and said:
"We were second best. We took a shot at her at the quarter-pole. It looked like we were going to get by her at one point, but she broke away from us again."
This was also the first Grade 1 victory for jockey Irad Ortiz, who guided her to victory in an Allowance Optional Claimer at Belmont Park in June, 2012. With two victories already in the bag, the three-year-old is on a hat-trick.
Questing has now earnings of $314,876 and has a 3-1-1 record from the eight starts that she has competed in.
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