Arapahoe: Wally Van romps in Colorado Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association Derby

Wally Van bolstered his strong record against fellow Colorado-breds on Saturday, when he drew out to a seven-length win in the $40,165 Colorado Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association Derby at Arapahoe Park.

It was Wally Van’s third win against statebreds from four starts against such company. Earlier in his career, he won his maiden and a trial in races restricted to Colorado-breds.

Wally Van ($2.20) was content to stalk the pace in third in the 1 1/16-mile CTBA Derby as 25-1 shot Secret City led the field through fractions of 23.66 seconds for the opening quarter, 47.74 for the half-mile, and 1:12.76 for six furlongs. Wally Van took the lead in the stretch and went on to cover the distance on a track rated fast in 1:46.03.

Travis Wales rode the winner for Bill Vanlandingham and trainer Tyrone Gleason. Wally Van has now won 4 of 9 starts and $69,778. He is a son of millionaire Crafty Shaw.