Thomas's winter New York string small but solid

OZONE PARK, N.Y. – Trainer Jonathan Thomas has left only six horses in New York for the winter, but there are definitely some runners in the group.

On Tuesday, Patagonia ran down heavily favored Communicator to win a nine-furlong, first-level allowance race by a neck. It was the colt’s first start since he was purchased by Thomas on behalf of Ralph and Lauren Evans for $150,000 out of the Keeneland November sale. He had previously been trained by Todd Pletcher for WinStar Farm.

“From how he trained and watching his races, it certainly seemed the more ground put in front of him the better he would do,” said Thomas, who also has horses at Tampa Bay Downs and Bridlewood Farm in Florida. “He was just getting in gear going 1 1/8 miles, so hopefully there’s a similar spot for him down the road.”

The $100,000 Jazil Stakes on Jan. 25 is possible.

Thomas also trains the promising filly Bridlewood Cat, who returned from a 6 1/2-month layoff to win two straight six-furlong races including a first-level allowance on Dec. 8. She beat Newly Minted, a New York-bred stakes winner who came back to win an open allowance race.

Thomas said Bridlewood Cat has benefitted from being based in New York this winter.

“The cooler weather definitely agreed with her. Her weight, her attitude, the change of scenery made all the difference in the world with her,” Thomas said.

Thomas said Bridlewood Cat would be nominated to the $100,000 Interborough on Jan. 20, but he may not want to run her seven furlongs.

Quixotic and Scuttlebuzz both ran well first time out, finishing second and third, respectively, and will run back in maiden races early in the new year. Thomas’s New York string is being overseen by assistant Melissa Cohen.

“For a little barn, I’m happy with what we left up there quality-wise, and Melissa has done a great job with them,” said Thomas, who will look to expand his New York presence by March.