Backbackbackgone captures Golden Bear

Backbackbackgone ($3.40) turned in a strong performance capturing the $75,000 Golden Bear Stakes on Thursday at Golden Gate Fields.

Prepping for the Sunshine Millions Dash at Gulfstream and Jan. 24, Backbackbackgone got a patient ride from Russell Baze, and made a strong move into the stretch as he won the third stakes of his career in the six-furlong race for 3-year-olds. He covered six furlongs in 1:11.01, defeating fast-finishing Free Action by one length. Pacesetting Revoluta faded to third another 1 1/4 lengths back.

Backbackbackgone broke sharply but was content to let Revoluta, who broke a step slowly, take the lead. Boxed in on the rail by Nina's Benchmark, Backbackbackgone waited until the field turned for home to make his move.

As Nina's Benchmark drifted out a bit, Backbackbackgone eased out for room and finished as straight as trainer Peter Miller had hoped. Backbackbackgone wore blinkers for the first time.

"Peter and I talked, and we wanted to sit behind horses and then make one run," Baze said. Late in the race, he started to feel like he was getting a little tired, and I was hoping nobody was closing too strong."

Backbackbackgone earned $45,000, increasing his career earnings to $159,440 with four wins in five starts for Gerson Racing, Charleville Stables and John Rogitz.