Obviously returns in style, winning American

ARCADIA, Calif. – Obviously returned with a vengeance Saturday at Santa Anita, where the 6-year-old gelding scored an impressive and popular front-running victory in the Grade 3 American Stakes at a mile on turf.

Hounded by surprising pace-presser Silentio through a half-mile in a quick 45.55, Obviously and jockey Joe Talamo shook away from that rival into the lane, opened up five lengths in midstretch, and won with something left in 1:33.39. Obviously returned $3.40.

The winning margin was 5 1/2 lengths over runner-up Chips All In. Silentio, with Gary Stevens aboard, finished a neck back in third. Smart Ellis trailed throughout to finish fourth and last. Winning Prize, Pure Tactics and Tigah scratched.

The $100,000 stakes was the first graded win for trainer Phil D’Amato, longtime assistant to trainer Mike Mitchell. D’Amato and Mitchell have reversed roles; Mitchell is now the assistant.

“We didn’t get a gimme today,” D’Amato said while standing next to Mitchell. “Gary made us earn it. This is very special. Words can’t describe it. I’m happy to have my mentor next to me and win a graded stakes with this horse.”

It was the second American win for Obviously. He won the race a year ago at Hollywood Park. He has won 10 races and $1,097,361 from 19 starts.

The win by Obviously sets him up for the Grade 1 Shoemaker Mile on June 14, a race in which he will meet Winning Prize and Tom’s Tribute.

Obviously is owned by Anthony Fanticola and Joe Scardino.