Turf experience pays off for Governor Sam in Tyro

Governor Sam fought for a neck win over 30-1 shot Jet Sweep Joe in the $100,000 Tyro for 2-year-olds on Saturday at Monmouth Park. It was another length back in third to Kirin.

The race was run over five furlongs on a turf course rated firm.

Governor Sam ($2.60) was the lone runner in the field with turf experience and was the 1-5 favorite off a maiden special weight win on the lawn at Saratoga. He raced in third Saturday behind dueling leaders Johnny Come Lately and Jet Sweep Joe, who ripped through an opening quarter in 21.05 seconds.

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Jet Sweep Joe shook his pace rival and went on with the lead through a half-mile in 44.17 seconds as Governor Sam joined him in the stretch. The pair battled to the wire, with Governor Sam covering the distance in 56.15 seconds.

Paco Lopez was aboard the winner for trainer George Weaver.

Governor Sam is a son of Improbable who races for Bregman Family Racing and Swinbank Stables. He is a half-brother to Grade 3 winner Pin Up Betty, who is set to run Sunday at Ellis Park in the Grade 3, $400,000 Pucker Up Stakes.

Governor Sam has now won 2 of 3 starts for earnings of $117,850.

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