Hug a Tree catches front runner Summer Frock at Laurel

Flying Pheasant Farm LLC’s Hug a Tree caught front-running favorite Summer Frock in mid-stretch and pulled clear late for a half-length victory in Saturday’s featured eighth race at Laurel Park.

Ridden by apprentice Kali Francois for trainer Joe Delozier III, Hug a Tree ($15.20) ran 5 ½ furlongs in 1:02.81 over a firm Dahlia Turf Course for her second straight victory and third this year.

Breaking from the inside post in a field of 10, Hug a Tree tracked in third as Cowgirl Creed and Summer Frock dueled through an opening quarter-mile of 21.89 seconds and a half in 44.84. Summer Frock took command turning for home but was unable to hold off the late charge from Hug a Tree down the center of the course.

"It worked out perfectly for her because she’s a filly that loves to get nice and tucked in there. She thrives off of just sitting behind and really targeting a horse,” said Francois, aboard for all three 2016 wins. “As soon as she broke I had to catch her in my hands a little bit. Once she had that contact in her mouth, that’s her go signal and that’s when she really started to get going.”

Summer Frock and Xavier Perez were second, followed by Southern Peach, Town Tart, Cowgirl Creed, Smart N Smokin, So Royal, Aye d’Eclaire, Liatris and Ms Eileen.

A 5-year-old daughter of Forestry out of the Dehere mare Cuddle Her, Hug a Tree was the most experienced horse in the field making her 41st career start and eighth this year without a published timed workout.

“She’s just fantastic and she’s one that doesn’t train off of breezes. She trains off of races. It’s a tiny thing but it’s worked out great. Joe is a fantastic horseman and he’s got a great team and a great crew,” Francois said. “I saw Xavier on my inside and I was surprised how well my filly kept going. I’m very pleased with how she went.”

Apprentice jockey Kevin Gomez registered back-to-back winners before being taken to the hospital after he was thrown from his mount in the third race.

Gomez, 22, was aboard even-money favorite Whiskey Sour tracking the leaders along the inside when they appeared to clip heels with Mr. Beer Goggles approaching the far turn of the seven-furlong claiming event.

Whiskey Sour stumbled slightly and dropped Gomez to the track beside the rail. Gomez was alert and moving but transported to the hospital complaining of neck pain and replaced on his final two mounts of the day. Whiskey Sour continued to run before being caught by outriders.