Thompson Sends Pinot Grigio to Red Cross
Trainer J. Willard Thompson will send Pinot Grigio to Sunday’s $70,000
Red Cross Stakes in an attempt to extend her winning streak to three,
and claim back-to-back
Monmouth
Park stakes wins.
Pinot Grigio returned in May from a four-month layoff to win an allowance event at
Monmouth
Park. She then went on to win by a convincing three lengths in her last race, the Open Mind Handicap on June 1.
“She was injured as a 2-year-old and we brought her back slowly,” said Thompson. “She’s certainly at the top of her game right now. I was impressed with how she drew away in her last race, and we’re hoping she can do the same in this one.”
A 5-year-old mare by Unbridled Jet, out of the Concorde’s Tune mare Purely, Pinot Grigio will face a field of nine other fillies and mares as they sprint six furlongs along Monmouth’s main track in the Red Cross. Among those in the field are multiple stakes winner Geeky Gorgeous and 3-1 morning line favorite Munnings Sister.
“There’s a good amount of speed in the race but I expect her to be close,” Thompson said. “Going six furlongs you never want to be too far away from the pace. She’s breaking from a good spot, so Gabriel (jockey Saez) should be able to get her into a good position.”
Gabriel Saez returns to ride Pinot Grigio in the Red Cross, which will go as race 11 on Sunday’s 12-race card.
WIN AND WINE WEEKEND AT MONMOUTH SATURDAY AND SUNDAY
Guests will pour into Monmouth Park Saturday and Sunday for Win and Wine weekend, where they will be able to sample and purchase delicious wines and enjoy a day at the races. For $10 patrons will receive a souvenir glass and unlimited access to wine sampling from vintners such as DiMatteo Vineyards, 4JG’s Winery, Wagonhouse Winery, and Renault Winery, among others.
Patrons will also be able to purchase goods from artisan crafters, and enjoy live music from The Mike Dalton Band on Saturday, and The Larry Stevens Band on Sunday.
Gates open at 11:30 a.m., with post time at 12:50 p.m. for both days.