Just Howard shows 'nice determination,' digs in to win Oceanport

In the 72nd running of the Grade 3, $150,000 Oceanport Stakes, Skeedatle Stable’s Just Howard made his first trip over the Monmouth turf course a winning one, as he dug down courageously through the lane to just get his head in front of Divisidero at the wire and complete the 1 1/16 miles in 1:42.62 on firm footing.

“My horse showed nice determination in the stretch,” trainer Graham Motion said. “He’s a cool horse and he deserved a win. He’s been sitting on a win for a long time. It was a nerve-wracking day, but we got through it.”

Just Howard, who two starts back was third in the Dixie Stakes (G2) at Pimlico, notched his first score since an allowance win at Laurel almost one year ago.

But the connections had to survive an objection by Jevian Toledo, the rider of Divisidero, who claimed interference.

“The plan was to stalk today and once those two went on I was able to find a good spot and save ground,” winning jockey Trevor McCarthy said. “And when I heard Divisidero start to make his move I came out and we were just able to outkick him. He’s been keeping good company and going against tough horses especially in the Dixie. So we’re really happy to get this win.”

Just Howard returned $5.40 for a $2 bet. Bird’s Eye View was third in the four-horse field, 2 ½ lengths back.