Senbei comes through as heavy favorite in New York Breeders' Futurity
Senbei earned the second stakes victory of his career with a dominant score in Monday’s $205,179 New York Breeders’ Futurity for statebred juveniles at Finger Lakes.
Senbei won at Saratoga in his debut, and followed up with a score in the Funny Cide Stakes in August at the same track. He was second in last month’s Bertram F. Bongard Stakes at Belmont, and was sent away favored in the six-furlong New York Breeders’ Futurity for trainer Christophe Clement.
Senbei, with Manny Franco in the irons, intently tracked the pace set by Adios Asher, winner of the local prep for Monday’s event, the Aspirant. Senbei was a half-length back through the half in 45.68 seconds. Adios Asher battled back when confronted by Senbei, but once roused by Franco, Senbei easily drew clear to a four-length victory. He finished the six furlongs in 1:10.96 and paid $3.40.
Adios Asher was easily second, 3 1/4 lengths clear of Dafuskie Island in third. The maidens Gimmedamoney and Don Bernardo rounded out the order of finish.