Mesoma gives Simms a thrill in Saturday allowance

LOUISVILLE, Ky. – It’s hardly possible to elicit a more bittersweet reaction to victory than in the eighth race Saturday at Churchill, where Mesoma outfought two rivals to win a $57,000 allowance in a three-horse photo.

Mesoma is trained by Garry Simms, who was surrounded by about 25 friends and supporters celebrating the exciting finish. Simms, 63, now is using a cane as he undergoes chemotherapy treatments for the cancer that has spread from his spine to his organs. He initially was diagnosed in December 2009 and has earned the admiration of fellow horsemen for the courage he has demonstrated under difficult circumstances.

Mesoma, a 4-year-old gelding by Flatter, got a terrific ride from Shaun Bridgmohan, finally budging past Taketothestreets and holding off a rally by Riyadh.

“He won by about three inches, but it might as well have been a mile,” said Simms. “A win is a win.”