Turf Paradise: Why Not Be Perfect earns first win on dirt in Hank Mills Sr. Handicap

PHOENIX – Why Not Be Perfect has had a successful career, winning five times for more than $187,000. But all of those wins had come on turf and he was 0 for 12 on dirt going into Saturday’s $35,000 Hank Mills Sr. Handicap at Turf Paradise.

Well, Why Not Be Perfect remedied that blot on his record as the 5-year-old horse by Whywhywhy proved an easy winner. Owned by J C Racing Stable and trained by Jeff Metz, Why Not Be Perfect invaded from Southern California off a romping grass win at Betfair Hollywood Park on Nov. 10. Under Anne Sanguinetti, he stalked pacesetter Touch the Sun, moved up to challenge that foe into the lane, dueled to midstretch, and then drew away to win easily by 3 1/2 lengths. Touch the Sun was game but couldn’t stay with the winner while proving second best. Where’s the Remote ran on for third while Hurricane Lake, the 7-5 favorite, rallied from last to get fourth in the field of eight.

Why Not Be Perfect ran the mile in 1:35.26 and paid $10.80. The winner’s share of $21,049 gives him earnings of $209,023 from 6 wins in 40 starts.