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The 122nd Alabama Stakes
The hot sun that baked the 35,005 racing enthusiasts
could not completely dry off the track from the heavy rains of midday
Friday. An amazing field of fillies assembled for the running of this
historic race including You, who won the Acorn and Test Stakes in her last
two outings, Godolphin Stable's Jilbab, winner of the Coaching Club
American Oaks, and Kentucky Oaks winner Farda Amiga. Track conditions
probably contributed to the late scratch of Bella Bellucci.
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Farda Amiga passes Allamerican Bertie
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Allamerican Bertie shot to the early lead and Smok'n Frolic and
You sat off the pace through moderate early fractions over the
sealed track surface. Kentucky Oaks winner Farda Amiga, whose name is
translated to Friendly Silks, had gotten off to an awkward start, made a
wide move late and wore down a resolute Allamerican Bertie near the wire
to notch a three-quarter length win. The winner's circle was a joyous and
loud place as a large group led by Jose DeCamargo celebrated the Alabama
victory. The spontaneous display of joy by this group was a refreshing
sight and reflects positively on the thrill and beauty of the sport.
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A joyous Jose DeCamargo
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The Saratoga Breeder's Cup
The race just prior to The Alabama was The Saratoga
Breeder's Cup and it also attracted a very impressive field. Dollar Bill,
who campaigned in all of The Triple Crown races, as well as The Travers
Stakes last year, went off as the favorite. Evening Attire has been running
well with the recent addition of blinkers. Also considered a factor
was the Kiaran McLaughlin trained Abreeze.
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Evening Attire catches Abreeze
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As the gates opened for the start of the race New York bred Gander stumbled,
unseating rider Mike Smith. Gander rebounded and ran loose in much of
the early going. With his reins dangling as they were he was very lucky
to have not tripped up in them. As the horses entered the stretch Gander
went to the lead and crossed the line first. The real battle for
the win was taking place right behind him. Gander had bothered front
running Abreeze through key parts of the race and in the end Abreeze
gave way to Evening Attire. The victory was the first of the meet for trainer Pat
Kelley.
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Gander - Home Alone
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