Classic Rock rolls to victory in Gulfstream Park Sprint

HALLANDALE BEACH, Fla. – Coming off a career-best effort in his 2017 finale, trainer Kathy Ritvo decided Classic Rock needed enough time to properly recuperate from the effort. The decision paid huge dividends after the speedster returned from the 10-week hiatus to register a convincing three-length victory over 90-1 Sweetontheladies in Saturday’s $100,000 Gulfstream Park Sprint.

Classic Rock benefitted from a perfectly judged ride by Luis Saez, who placed the 4-year-old son of Maclean’s Music within easy striking position just off the early pace of Rock and Fellers. Classic Rock split horses into the stretch, forged to command approaching the furlong marker, quickly pulled clear and was not threatened thereafter.

Sweetontheladies rallied from near the rear of the field to finish second, a neck in front of Eight Town, who loomed menacingly through midstretch but could not kick on at the end. Favorable Outcome was never a serious factor, finishing a disappointing sixth as the heavy favorite in his first start since a third-place finish in the Grade 1 Malibu.

Classic Rock is owned by Reeves Thoroughbred Racing, who partnered with Ritvo to win the 2013 Breeders’ Cup Classic with Mucho Macho Man. The Grade 3 Gulfstream Park Sprint was Ritvo's first graded stakes victory since the Breeders’ Cup.

Classic Rock returned $13.20 for his fifth win in six starts at Gulfstream Park. Final time for 6 1/2 furlongs was 1:18.32 seconds over a fast track. Classic Rock was given a 93 Beyer Speed Figure.

“Luis rode a perfect race,” said Ritvo. “The horse was ready today. We gave him some time after his last race because he ran such a great race. Mr. and Mrs. Reeves allowed me to give him the time, like they always do. They’re perfect owners. And he came back and showed us he appreciated it.”

Ritvo said she was not surprised Classic Rock was able to rate his abundant speed and win from off the pace.

“He’s shown he could rate before,” said Ritvo. “He’s just a classy, classy horse who loves his job. He’ll do whatever you ask him to do. And he loves this racetrack. He loves being here. He doesn’t like moving too much.”

Ritvo said she has several options for Classic Rock’s next start including the Grade 2 Smile Sprint, a Win and You’re In race for the Breeders’ Cup Sprint.