Adelaide Strolled Over the Secretariat Field
On a Chamber of Commerce day in Chicago, Adelaide strolled home in the Secretariat Stakes at Arlington Park. There was never a tense moment for the Irish-bred, 3-year-old son of Galileo, during the 1 ¼ mile test as he stalked in third throughout, made a wide run down the lane, winning by 1 ½ lengths and returned $4.20 to his backers.
For Adelaide, who was a runner-up to Mr. Speaker in the Belmont Derby (G1) last month, this was his second start state-side for the Coolmore ownership group. Everyone associated with Adelaide expected him to move forward off that defeat, including jockey Ryan Moore. “He’s the best horse in the race going into it, just thought we would keep it simple. The horse on the lead was getting a bit of a soft hand, so didn’t want to move up too early. Adelaide just had more class than the field and got the job done. He’s run in France, Ireland, England, America and America again.”
Coming into the Secretariat, Tourist was undefeated on grass for trainer Bill Mott, but had never run further than 1 1/16 miles on the lawn. Under jockey Joel Rosario, Tourist set an uncontested pace with fractions of 24 4/5, 48 4/8 and 1:13 2/5. It appeared that the distance was not the problem just Adelaide’s superiority.
“He ran well. I had to move a little early and the horse that won the race was there with me and he got me. It was his (Tourist’s) first time going a mile and a quarter and he did well. I’d love to ride him back, for sure,” said Rosario.
Though second, the rest of Tourist’s connections were pleased even in defeat. “He ran good for first time going 1 ¼ miles. I’m not sure where we’ll go from here if longer of if he’s a miler. We’ll get back, evaluate, and regroup and see where we are. He lost to a good horse today,” said Elliott Walden, president of WinStar, the breeder and co-owner.
Another three lengths behind was Sheldon, who rail up the rail late to capture the show spot. He was followed by Global View, Highball, Divine Oath and General Jack.