Ibaka proves uncatchable in Cherokee Nation Classic Cup

Ibaka led throughout for a 3 1/4-length win over Lingerlonger in the $55,000 Cherokee Nation Classic Cup on Tuesday at Will Rogers Downs. It was another 1 1/2 lengths back in third to Okey Dokey Kyle.

The Classic Cup was a one-mile and 70-yard race for 3-year-olds and up bred in Oklahoma.

Ibaka ($4.60) broke on top and set fractions of 23.22 seconds for the opening quarter, 47.76 for the half-mile and 1:13.12 for six furlongs, while racing on a muddy track that was sealed. He covered the distance in 1:42.01.

C.J. McMahon rode the winner for trainer Bret Calhoun.

Doug Wall bred and owns Ibaka, who is a son of Uncle Abbie. The horse earned $33,000 for his win to improve his career earnings to $358,319. Ibaka has now won nine races from 19 starts, with six of his victories coming in stakes races.