Apollitical Jess makes his case for World Champion Quarter Horse

LOS ALAMITOS, Calif. - Apollitical Jess made a compelling argument for the 2010 title of World Champion Quarter Horse with a track-record performance in Saturday’s $750,000 Champion of Champions at Los Alamitos.

Apollitical Jess caught early leader A Tempting Dash in the final 40 yards to win the 440-yard race by a half-length in 20.93 seconds, lowering the previous record of 20.94 seconds set in the 2008 Champion of Champions by Jess You and I.

Saturday’s victory by Apollitical Jess is certain to draw support for the World Champion title, considering the Champion of Champions brings together the winners of major stakes across the country run throughout the year. Apollitical Jess won the Los Alamitos Super Derby on Nov. 6 to earn a berth in the Champion of Champions.

Ridden by Eduardo Nicasio, Apollitical Jess ran a nearly flawless race in the Champion of Champions. He was away well from the inside post in a field of 10, and was second early to A Tempting Dash, who won the Go Man Go Handicap in September. In the final 40 yards, Apollitical Jess had the best stride. The win improved his career record to 8 wins in 14 starts and earnings of $1,399,831.

A Tempting Dash finished 1 1/4 lengths in front of 10-1 Divide the Cash, who was followed by Jess You and I, Merridoc Hawk, Freaky, Feature Jess Rockin, Good Reason Sa, Spit Curl Diva, and Blues Man Too.

The race featured the winners of the race in the two preceding years. Defending champion Freaky, the 6-5 favorite, did not break well and never reached contention, finishing 3 1/4 lengths behind Apollitical Jess.

Apollitical Jess, by Mr Jess Perry, races for Juan Alberto Tirado Lizarraga, 44, of Mazatlan, Mexico, and trainer Juan Aleman, 36. Tirado said a decision will be made in coming days whether Apollitical Jess remains in training in 2011 or is retired to stud.