Yonkers: Papagayo E wins $1 Million International Trot

Papagayo E managed to work out an absolutely perfect trip in the $1 million International Trot on Saturday afternoon at Yonkers Raceway and scored a 9-1 upset in the one and one quarter mile classic that easily lived up to expectations.

Going into the race Timoko of France and Bee A Magician of Canada were the chief threats in the field of 10, but while both showed interest in the early stages Johnny Takter and Creatine asserted control from the outset. Creatine left sharply and Papagayo E and driver Ulf Ohlsson ducked in the two-hole to stalk him.

The fractions were moderate as Creatine dictated the action and Timoko initially raced without cover and then yielded to an early wide move by On Track Piraten to gain a horse to track. With quarter times of :28 4/5, :58 4/5, 1:28 1/5 and 1:57 2/5 the significant action began with Brian Sears sending Bee A Magician three and then four wide flushing the wide move of Timoko and driver Bjorn Goop.

The stretch drive was thrilling as Creatine fought to prevail with Papagayo E to his inside and Timoko bravely fighting to his outside. Papagayo E had never seen a passing lane before but the son of Cocktail Jet knew just what to do and under urging gamely held off a valiant bid by Timoko late.

“I was concerned Creatine wouldn’t get me there,” said Ohlsson, the winning driver. As for Timoko his driver expected to see him coming. “I knew he’d be strong but my horse felt strong too.”

The Papagayo E fan club was in force to support the son of Norway in the winner’s circle waving the colors proudly.

Creatine, Oasis Bi and BBS Sugarlight followed the top pair home.

Tom Andersen and Claes Sjolin own the 5-year-old winner and Jan Waaler trains.

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