Mocito Rojo eyes Lukas Classic, Ack Ack for next start

Mocito Rojo is likely headed to Kentucky following his win last weekend in the $175,000 Governor’s Cup at Remington Park.

Trainer Shane Wilson said Tuesday the Louisiana-based horse is being considered for the Grade 3, $250,000 Lukas Classic and the Grade 3, $150,000 Ack Ack. Both races will be run Sept. 28 at Churchill Downs.

“I think that’s the next spot, one of them,” Wilson said. “If it looks like we can be competitive, we’ll go up there and take a shot at it.”

Mocito Rojo was winning his fourth straight race in the Governor’s Cup. His streak started with the Owners Appreciation Cup on March 9 at Delta Downs and includes the Grade 3, $300,000 Steve Sexton Mile on April 28 at Lone Star Park and the $100,000 Evangeline Downs Mile on June 22.

Mocito Rojo won beyond a mile for the first time in the Governor’s Cup – a race run at the same 1 1/8-mile distance as the Lukas Classic. The Ack Ack is a one-turn mile at Churchill.

“He’s run well at one turn,” Wilson said. “Now that he’s shown he can go a mile and an eighth, I’m not sure I want to shorten him up. We’ve got time to figure it out.”

Wilson said if Mocito Rojo were to pass on the trip to Kentucky, he will just await the $100,000 Delta Downs Mile on Nov. 16. Mocito Rojo will winter at the Vinton, La., track that opens Oct. 8.

In the Governor’s Cup, Mocito Rojo rallied from off the pace and for his half-length win earned a Beyer Speed Figure of 92. It was the 16th career victory for Mocito Rojo, who is the best he’s ever been this year at 5.

“I think if anything, he’s more focused,” Wilson said. “I think he’s just getting more mature.”

Mocito Rojo races for Wayne T. Davis.