Officiating holds off Papetu in Bear's Den Stakes
Officiating splashed his way to victory over a track rated sloppy in the $75,000 Bear’s Den at Gulfstream Park on Sunday.
The seven-furlong dash for 3-year-olds was originally scheduled for turf but was moved to the main track following a heavy downpour following the fifth race, which was contested over firm turf.
With Emisael Jaramillo aboard, Officiating chased Dark Timber and Exchange Day through a quick half-mile in 45.31 seconds. He started to make his presence known when he moved off the rail on the turn, continued his progress turning for home, took over the lead at the eighth pole, and drew off to win by 3 1/2 lengths over Papetu.
Papetu got bumped hard leaving the starting gate, dropped back to last, made a strong three-wide move to get on even terms with the leaders at the top of the stretch, but hung late. Dark Timber held on to finish third.
A Florida-bred colt by Blame, Officiating paid $17.60 and posted a final time of 1:23.11.
He races for Vegso Racing Stable and is trained by Saffie Joseph Jr.