Magic Star steps up to win Marshua's River Stakes

HALLANDALE BEACH, Fla. – What Magic Star lacked in experience she certainly made up for with pure talent, becoming a Grade 3 winner in just her third career start after rallying to a half-length decision over Munchkin Money in the $100,000 Marshua’s River on Saturday at Gulfstream Park.

With Irad Ortiz Jr. aboard, Magic Star rated near the rear of the field off a lively pace set by Piece by Peace. Magic Star remained well reserved while edging closer leaving the backstretch, angled five wide rallying into the stretch, and then surged past the leaders once finally changing leads near midstretch.

Munchkin Money took back to last while saving ground during the early going, split rivals advancing around the second bend then finished strong near the inside to just miss. Andina Del Sur succumbed grudgingly after gaining command nearing the furlong grounds, finishing another half-length back in third and two lengths in front of the tiring, 2-1 favorite Sweet Bye and Bye.

Magic Star won her career debut last summer at Saratoga but disappointed when finishing sixth as the even money favorite in an entry level allowance race last fall at Belmont Park in her only other start. A daughter of Scat Daddy, she is owned by Don Alberto Stable and trained by Chad Brown.

Magic Star paid $7.20 after completing 1 1/16 miles over the firm course in 1:39.67.

“She doesn’t have much early speed, so I let her relax and find her stride,” Ortiz said. “When I turned for home I had a lot of horse, but I let her wait just a few more jumps, tipped her out, she responded and kicked on nicely.”