Avenge up in time in Ultrafleet Stakes

ARCADIA, Calif. – It made for dramatic viewing, but jockey Flavien Prat had every intention of putting Avenge in front as late as possible in Friday’s $78,550 Ultrafleet Stakes at Santa Anita.

Avenge ($5.20) closed from fourth in a field of six to win the Ultrafleet Sakes for 3-year-old fillies on the hillside turf course by a head over 36-1 Moons Over Me. Prat guided Avenge between runners in the final furlong and urged his mount to the lead with two strides to spare.

“I waited to the last minute because she’s a little green,” Prat said.

The strategy worked, with Avenge winning her stakes debut in 1:14.07 for about 6 1/2 furlongs. Mio Me finished third, followed by Suva Harbor, She’s a Big Winner, and Ethan’s Baby.

She’s a Big Winner was the 9-10 favorite. She contended for the lead with Ethan’s Baby until the field crossed onto the main turf course but was not a factor in the final furlong.

“I hit a wall at the top of the lane,” said jockey Brice Blanc, who rode She’s a Big Winner.

Ethan’s Baby is trained by Craig Dollase, who lodged an objection against She’s a Big Winner, alleging interference in the stretch. The claim was disallowed by stewards.

Avenge races for Ramona Bass and trainer Richard Mandella. By War Front, Avenge has won three consecutive races, all on the hillside turf course, including a maiden race March 15 and an optional claimer April 9.

Avenge has won 3 of 6 starts and earned $126,580. Prat, 22, is a native of France who has ridden in California in the winters in recent seasons and is now here full times. He has 22 wins this year.