Stephen's Answer proves stakes ability in Delta Downs Mile

Stephen’s Answer made the transition from claimer to stakes winner on Saturday night, when he fought off Extirpator for a neck win in the $100,000 Delta Downs Mile. It was another half-length back to Late Nite Mischief in third.

Stephen’s Answer ($11.20) was racing for a claiming price of $7,500 in August, but won a pair of allowances in subsequent starts in efforts that earned him his first chance at stakes competition. He delivered.

Stephen's Answer set fractions of 23.13 seconds for the opening quarter, 47.39 for the half-mile, and 1:12.44 for six furlongs, while under pressure on the final turn. In the stretch he held off Extirpator and covered the distance on a fast track in 1:40.51.

Quincy Hamilton was aboard Stephen’s Answer for trainer Robertino Diodoro.

Empire Racing Stables claimed Stephen’s Answer out of the $7,500 spot back in August at Canterbury. The horse was moved to Delta and he promptly won a first-level allowance Oct. 10. The horse is now 3 for 3 on the six-furlong oval with his win Saturday.

Stephen’s Answer is a 6-year-old by Stephen Got Even. He has now won 9 of 39 starts and earned $203,077.