03/16/2013 3:16PM

Gulfstream Park: Zaikov impresses in debut

By Mike Welsch
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Bob Coglianese
Zaikov won his debut by more than 11 lengths Friday and earned a 99 Beyer Speed Figure.

The performance by trainer Todd Pletcher’s latest 3-year-old sensation, Zaikov, here Friday was all the talk during training hours Saturday.

Zaikov, a homebred son of Distorted Humor out of the $2 million earner Wait a While, won his debut by more than 11 lengths while earning a 99 Beyer Speed Figure. Zaikov is owned by Alan Cohen’s Arindel Farm, which also campaigned Grade 1 turf winner Wait a While.

“We loved his mother. She was one of our all-time favorites,” Pletcher said. “He’s trained really well on the dirt, and she was good on all surfaces. He’s acted like a really talented colt all along, and we’re glad to finally get him going.”

Pletcher said Zaikov would remain on the dirt for the time being while likely being pointed for an allowance race in his next start.

Geral John Pinault 5 months ago
You can tell that trainer Ken McPeek was partying a bit too much for St. Paddy's Day when he said he was entering Frac Daddy in The Florida Derby! Of course 4th place does pay about $75K so the money angle is understandable, but fellow fans, DO NOT BET A DIME ON THIS BUM!!!
William 5 months ago
Congratulations to Todd, and all the parties wish you luck with your new champion
Dave 5 months ago
Wow! Very impressive...... barring any setbacks or injuries this one is destined for stardom just like his mom. One I will definitely be following!!!