Riker scores front-running upset in Colin

ETOBICOKE, Ontario—Riker held off a persistent The Zip Zip Man in the stretch to take the $125,000 Colin Stakes for 2-year-olds under Jesse Campbell at Woodbine on Saturday.

After breaking from the rail, Riker ($18.80) went right to the front and set honest fractions while being pressed by The Zip Zip Man, a well-regarded Chicago shipper who was favored throughout much of the wagering.

Riker maintained a slim lead throughout the stretch, and got home on top by a half-length in 1:09.44 for the six furlongs. First-time starter Tizzarunner rallied for third, while the 3-2 favorite Hollywood Hideaway faded to fourth after being hard-ridden in third on the turn.

Riker banked $75,000, and is unbeaten in two starts for Tucci Stable and trainer Nick Gonzalez.

“The first time I worked this horse, I thought he was an older horse,” said Campbell. “I didn’t know he was a 2-year-old. He’s very smart, and he’s very professional. Today, we were actually going to let the speed go, but he made up my mind for me real quick, and we went to Plan B.”