Supercommittee scores easy win in Ginger Punch Stakes

HALLANDALE BEACH, Fla. – On paper, the switch from turf to a muddy main track looked like it would be a disadvantage for Supercommittee, who was winless in two starts on dirt coming into Saturday’s $100,000 Ginger Punch Stakes at Gulfstream Park.

But on the racetrack, the change in venue proved no obstacle for the improving Supercommittee, who rallied to an easy five-length victory over Midnight Soiree in the 1 1/16-mile test for Florida-bred fillies and mares.

Supercommittee rated within easy striking distance of the leaders while racing between horses for the opening half-mile, made a quick three-wide run to take command midway on the second turn, shook off Midnight Soiree in early stretch and won going away. Midnight Soiree went after the winner approaching the quarter pole, proved no match but was clearly second-best, finishing two lengths clear of Passion Plus.

Supercommittee, a 4-year-old daughter of The Factor, won for the fourth time in 13 tries. Victor Lebron rode the winner for trainer Robert Falcone Jr. Supercommittee paid $9.40 after completing the distance in 1:45.50.

“This is my first time riding her on dirt, and she seemed really comfortable, really comfortable,” said Lebron, who is riding his first full summer at Gulfstream Park. “Going to the half-mile, I had a lot of horse. At the three-eighths, I knew I was loaded. I just had to wait and make the right move.”

With Falcone not in attendance, Lebron said he received no specific instructions on how to ride Supercommittee in the Ginger Punch. The veteran had been aboard her once before, finishing third over turf in the Powder Break Stakes here April 27.

“No instructions, that’s the best way to go,” Lebron said with a laugh. “Once he names me on her, he expects me to know what to do and get the job done.”