Bay Storm edges Wakanaka in Ladies Turf Sprint

Bay Storm again was battling through the long stretch of Kentucky Downs, with a close finish at the wire looming. But this time she prevailed. Bay Storm set the pace and then held on for a neck victory over Wakanaka in the Grade 2, $1 million Kentucky Downs Ladies Turf Sprint on Saturday evening.

The mare had been second by a nose to Campanelle in last year's event.

"She really deserves this," said trainer Jonathan Thomas, who teamed with Florent Geroux to win two Grade 3, $1 million races on the card after earlier taking the Ladies Turf with Regal Realm.

"She’s got a crazy good resume. I think that’s her 17th lifetime start and she’s only been off the board twice. [Owner] George Isaacs and the Bridlewood team have been really patient with her. It’s kind of like a bow on a present. It feels good to have gotten her that win.”

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Bay Storm, who quickly recovered after breaking in the air, was hounded by Tony Ann, never more than a half-length in front as she set a pressured pace of 22.63 seconds for the opening quarter-mile and 45.80 for the half on turf rated firm. She was unable to edge away from Tony Ann as that one kept on gamely into the stretch - and, meanwhile, favored Wakanaka, who had been last of seven after the opening quarter, was angling out for her bid. She came to the top two with a rush in the final stages, but Bay Storm dug in to prevail at the wire.

Wakanaka edged Tony Ann, who was game between horses, by a head for second.

The final time was 1:17.06 for the 6 1/2 furlongs.

After the top three, it was 2 1/2 lengths back to Our Flash Drive, followed by Train to Artemus, Quaria Comet, and Fast and Feminine.

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