Swirvin turns things around in Jersey Shore Stakes
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Swirvin had been his own worst enemy finishing fourth in his stakes debut, the Carry Back at Gulfstream Park, but he was far more professional Saturday at Monmouth Park, where he scored a decisive victory in the $100,000 Jersey Shore Stakes.
A winner in his first two races, Swirvin made the early lead in the Carry Back before coming off the bridle and dropping back sharply before the half-mile pole. Apparently bound for a last-place finish, Swirvin came again in the homestretch to finish an encouraging fourth, and under Trevor McCarthy he made no mistakes during the running of the six-furlong Jersey Shore.
Swirvin did charge the starting-gate stall before the race began, worrying McCarthy, but the colt broke sharply and fell into a perfect trip racing third behind dueling leaders Recruiter and Super Chow. The opening quarter-mile went in 22.10, McCarthy, per trainer Saffie Joseph’s instructions, staying aggressive on Swirvin into the turn. Swirvin had nearly reached the leaders after a half-mile in 44.93 seconds, and at the head of the homestretch he had made the front. Edging steadily clear, Swirvin crossed the wire 2 3/4 lengths best, Super Chow staying on for second 1 1/2 lengths in front of Recruiter.
Swirvin stopped the timer in 1:10.08 over a fast track and paid $7.20 as the second choice.
Favored Squire Creek hit the gate at the start, rushed from last into early contention, but began fading past the half-mile pole and was finished at the three-furlong marker, eventually finishing last of nine, all but eased under the wire.
Joseph trains Swirvin for Bassett Stables. Bred in Kentucky by Brereton Jones, Swirvin is by Girvin out of Cara Sorella, by Brother Derek. The colt is talented, and now he is learning how to race.
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