Breakout Beyers: Golden Tapit has the pedigree
Each week in this space, the top Beyer performances by maiden winners will be featured and analyzed. Click here for a complete archive.
Golden Tapit
Feb. 8, 5th race, Gulfstream, MdSpWt43k
Beyer: 89
1 1/8m, turf, firm, 1:48.31
ch. c. 4, Tapit-Fun House, by Prized
Owner: Sumaya U.S. Stable
Trainer: Brendan Walsh
Breeder: Winchell Thoroughbreds
Had made one start, on dirt, for Clement stable last summer, here coming back from a long break with a series of drills, the last several on turf, at Palm Meadows. Caught three wide no cover first turn but traveled very strongly while in hand down the backside, engaging the leader in upper stretch and pushing clear the final 50 yards with a big gallop-out. Dam produced multiple Grade 1 winner Untapable and Grade 1 winner Paddy O’Prado. Very interesting.
Spa City
Feb. 8, 7th race, Gulfstream, MdSpWt43k
Beyer: 91
1 1/8m, dirt, fast, 1:49.24
b.c.3, Street Sense-Sara Louise, by Malibu Moon
Owner: Godolphin
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin
Breeder: Godolphin
Six furlongs to a one-turn-mile to this 1 1/8-mile first try around two turns – progression worked for colt. Broke alertly and got himself a very favorable trip pressing a modest pace while relaxed under a patient ride. Put away lone challenger late, and it was almost 15 lengths from second to third. Nothing flashy from a strong galloping type who clearly is going the right direction and should stay a trip even longer than this one.
Texas Swing
Feb. 8, 4th race, Tampa, MdSpWt25k
Beyer: 86
1m-40yds, dirt, fast, 1:39.57
b.c.3, Curlin-Derby Eve, by Tiznow
Owner: Harrell Ventures
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Breeder: Susan Casner
Seemingly couldn’t have a week of Breakout Beyers without a Todd Pletcher-trained horse. Second-time starter out of a Gulfstream sprint broke sharply, set a lively pace, turned back challenge, and won clear, though the show horse quickly passed him on the gallop-out. Quick raw time on a quick track. Not only by Curlin but the first foal to race from Derby Eve, a sister to Grade 1 jump-race winner Mr. Hot Stuff and long-winded Santa Anita Derby winner Colonel John.