Damon's Mound training at Colonial for Saratoga Special

Damon’s Mound, the exciting 2-year-old prospect, has taken up residence with trainer Michelle Lovell’s string at Colonial Downs and is being aimed at the $200,000 Saratoga Special on Aug. 13, Lovell said.

Damon’s Mound won a six-furlong maiden race July 2 at Churchill Downs by 12 1/2 lengths, clocking 1:09.84, which was good for an 84 Beyer. That’s the fourth-highest 2-year-old Beyer in North America so far this year, but Damon’s Mound performance looked even better than the figure.

After breaking a beat slow, he eased into contention, made the lead effortlessly, and drew away powerfully under no urging from jockey Gabriel Saez, galloping out far in front of his rivals. He ran with his ears pricked, responded to his rider’s every command, and showed off the body of a horse who ought to stay a middle distance.

“He came out of his race perfect. He’s everything, ticks all the boxes. He’s a big, strong horse with a lot of class,” said Lovell. “Mentally, he’s great for a 2-year-old – a really kind horse. He’s got an air about him. He came back from his race that day and never turned a hair.”

Damon’s Mound is from the first crop of the sire Girvin, who has gotten off to a hot start, and is out of the Stroll mare, San Antonio Stroll, who could route. He’s owned by his breeders, Michele and Cliff Love of Houston, Texas.

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“Everyone is trying to buy him. They don’t want to sell,” said Lovell.

The Loves sought out Lovell earlier this year, telling her they had a promising 2-year-old under tack they wanted to send her. Lovell kept a stall open. “They sent him to me and I’m like, wow, he looks like a 3-year-old,” she said.

Damon’s Mound raced like he was working, often under Saez. The horses Lovell was working in company with Damon’s Mound were really no match for him, she said. Lovell would tell Saez to wait, rate alongside the company to the wire, and then let Damon’s Mound do his thing.

It’s early, it’s one race, and a lot can happen week to week with 2-year-olds, but the Loves and Lovell have a very nice one holed up in Virginia right now.