HOT SPRINGS, Ark. — Robert LaPenta and Head of Plains Partners LLC.’s Coal Front did not disappoint as the 6-5 favorite despite having to break from post position 14 of 14 and won Monday’s $500,000 Razorback Handicap (G3) by a neck over Copper Bullet.
Under jockey John Velazquez, the Todd Pletcher-trainee went gate to wire to win the 1 1/16-mile race in 1:43 2/5 over a fast track. He returned $4.60, $4 and $3.20.
Rated R Superstar finished third as a 79-1 longshot.
One race earlier, She’s a Julie won the $200,000 Bayakoa Stakes (G3) as the 7-5 favorite to give trainer Steve Asmussen and jockey Ricardo Santana Jr. their fourth win of the day. The 4-year-old filly races for the partnership of Bradley Thoroughbreds, Whispering Oaks Farm LLC., Team Hanley, Madakat Stable and Tim and Anna Cambron.
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Razorback Stakes Quotes:
Winning trainer Todd Pletcher – “We were a little concerned when we saw the post, but the real key to his success today was getting away cleanly and getting a good position going into the first turn. Had to go a little quick to get to the first turn, but turning up the backside he relaxed nicely.”
Winning jockey John Velazquez – “He broke sharp and then I was able to give him a little break to get him off somebody. It worked out perfect.”
Jockey Jose Ortiz, second aboard Copper Bullet – “Perfect trip. I followed Johnny (Velazquez). I thought they were going a little fast early. Down the backside, they were going plenty fast. That horse that pulled out the win is very impressive.”
Jockey David Cabrera, third on Rated R Superstar – "When I turned for home, I thought I was the winner. I tried to shoot for a hole and he just kind of got intimidated. If he wouldn't have gotten intimidated, I think we would have gotten it."
Bayakoa Stakes Quotes:
Winning jockey Ricardo Santana Jr. – “She ran a good race. That filly, she's always loyal, always tries hard, always tries her best. She took a little time off and came back fresh, and won a big race.”
Corey Lanerie, second aboard Promise of Spring – “It was perfect (trip). I found myself sitting right behind the two favorites and was trying to go and went we after them, but it wasn't good enough today to win. She ran a tremendous race."
Jose Ortiz, third aboard Moonlit Garden – "Perfect (trip). She broke good. Put me there good. I sat a half a length behind them. Maybe half a mile, I started making my move, but She's a Julie is a really nice filly, Grade 1 placed. She proved it again today."