Brooks set for All American, as usual
All is normal for this year's Grade 1, $2 million All American Futurity, as Hall of Fame trainer Jack Brooks has two qualifiers in Quarter Horse racing's richest race, to be run on Labor Day, Sept. 6. Brooks is seeking a record-extending ninth victory in the All American.
The trainer has won the race in the 1970's, 80's, 90's, and most recently in 2000, with Eyesa Special.
"It is unbelievable," Brooks said of his All American success.
"I've been so lucky over the years to have the livestock and win it."
Brooks will be represented by fastest qualifier Mighty Invictus and Take Off Jess, who finished second in the first trial, on Aug. 19. His 21.525-second time for the 440 yards stayed in the top 10 times through the remaining 20 trials.
"I didn't think there was any way the time would hold up," Brooks said.
The two Brooks qualifiers were ridden by Hall of Famer Jacky Martin, who has been aboard seven Brooks-trained All American winners and holds the record for All American riding victories. Brooks said that the decision has not been made about which horse Martin will ride in the All American, but it will probably be Mighty Invictus.
"I feel good about these two colts," Brooks said. "They each have a good shot to win it."
Mighty Invictus turned in the quickest time from the 209 trial entrants when he won his trial in 21.417 seconds. He showed All American potential when he set the fastest qualifying time to the Grade 1, $700,000 Rainbow Futurity in 19.50 seconds for 400 yards with a late-running style suited to the longer quarter-mile distance of the All American. He had a lackluster start in the Rainbow finals and finished sixth, but rebounded with a neck win in his All American trial over fourth-fastest qualifier DM Shicago, who turned in a time of 21.471.
The remaining qualifiers and their times are Separate Secrets (21.426), Lasting Episode (21.445), Ojo Loca (21.539), Have a Coronary (21.541), Jess Satin (21.553), Corona Ease (21.561), and Devons Signature (21.564).