Additional Coverage:
In a dominant display at Monmouth Park, Belmont Stakes victor Dornoch continued his winning streak by securing the $1 million Haskell Stakes, further establishing his leadership in the competitive 3-year-old division.
The race not only solidified Dornogh’s standing but also intensified his rivalry with Mindframe, whom he narrowly defeated at the Belmont Stakes. At the Haskell, held before an enthusiastic crowd of nearly 39,000 spectators, Dornoch decisively outpaced Mindframe, who was the favored contender, to win by over a length.
Jockey Luis Saez and Dornoch crossed the finish line with a time of 1:50.31 for the 1 1/8 mile race, leaving Mindframe trailing for second and Timberlake in third, a distant five lengths behind. The win was a significant moment for the Dornoch’s ownership team, which includes ex-baseball professional Jason Werth. Werth praised Dornoch affectionately, emphasizing his value both on and off the track.
Trainer Danny Gargan experienced some apprehension due to Dornoch’s starting position but was relieved as the horse took an early lead and controlled the pace, squashing all concerns linked to their past experience at the Kentucky Derby. The triumph not only proved Gargan’s strategy but also illustrated Dornoch’s resilience and capability under pressure.
Betting odds reflected Dornoch’s underdog status with payouts at $8.80 to win, while Mindframe’s second-place finish returned $2.40. Timberlake’s third-place finish paid out $2.60 to show.
In other developments, owner Mike Repole withdrew Fierceness from the Haskell, preferring to compete in the upcoming Jim Dandy Stakes at Saratoga, despite owning a share in Mindframe alongside Vinnie Viola, a prominent sports team owner.
The Haskell victory also ensured Dornoch a spot in the prestigious $7 million Breeders’ Cup Classic this November, covering all entry expenses.
Furthermore, the weekend races showcased more tight contests. Idomatic narrowly defeated Soul of An Angel in the $500,000 Molly Pitcher Stakes, while Get Smokin clinched a win in the $600,000 United Nations Stakes on turf.
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