Meadowlands: Captain Crunch dominates in Governor's Cup final

Breeders Crown winner Captain Crunch converted a perfect trip to victory, taking the $469,300 Governor's Cup for 2-year-old pacing colts and geldings at the Meadowlands on Saturday night in 1:50 3/5 over a rain-soaked and sloppy surface.

There was plenty of early activity in the Governor's Cup, with Escapetothebeach grabbing control through a 27 1/5 opening quarter for driver Tim Tetrick. Mangogh, the elimination winner a week ago, hustled sharply for Corey Callahan to take control midway down the backstretch, and he led through a half in 54 3/5.

Semi Tough and Matt Kakaley were flushed out by the winner at that point and advanced on the outside, with Blood Money third-over and Mac's Power following fourth-over.

Mangogh was able to rate the to the three-quarters in 1:23, setting up a wicked stretch rally by Captain Crunch. With Scott Zeron urging him forward, he drew clear from the field and cruised to the wire. Mac's Power rallied sharply late for the place spot, with Blood Money, who tailed the winner, settling for third. Mangogh held on for fourth in the blanket photo, with Reigning Deo finishing between horses in fifth.

Captain Crunch is a colt from the first crop of Captaintreacherous and is trained by Nancy Johansson for owners 3 Brothers Stable, Christina Takter, Rojan Stable and Caviart Farms. Sent off as the 9-5 public choice, Captain Crunch was a winner for the sixth time in 10 seasonal starts.

"It was a perfect drive," said Scott Zeron, smiling from ear to ear.