Yougottawanna repeats in Seabiscuit

SAN MATEO, Calif. - Defending champion Yougottawanna ($12.60) was put on the lead early, got a breather on the second turn and proved superior in the lane in winning the $86,250 Grade 3 Seabiscuit Breeders' Cup Handicap at Bay Meadows on Saturday.

Yougottawanna defeated Jake Skate by 1 1/4 lengths, winning the 1 1/16-mile race in 1:41.42. His stablemate, Adreamisborn, was third another 1 1/2 lengths back.

Yougottawanna, who sat behind Jake Skate in the Lafayette Handicap at Golden Gate Fields on New Year's Day, was intent on making the lead Saturday as jockey Jason Lumpkins pushed him early.

"I wanted this horse close to the front end or on the front end," said trainer Jerry Hollendorfer, who was unhappy the 6-year-old gelding was third early in the Lafayette. "I've had Jason ride horses like this before, and he's done well."

Lumpkins immediately went after Jake Skate, who popped the gate.

"Jake Skate and Desert Boom were my concern on the pace. I floated down on (Jake Skate) going into the turn. I knew I had to get in front. Iggy (Puglisi, Jake Skate's rider) took back, and I took over."

Lumpkins maintained a daylight lead before Jake Skate made a move on him into the lane.

"I was concerned a little bit on the backside, but I knew I had horse. He was free-running on his own, and I got him to get a good breather around the turn," Lumpkins said. "That horse came to him, but I hit him left-handed, and her really responded."

Puglisi was concerned to be three lengths back after the opening half.

"I thought I was in the perfect spot. I was happy to be laying off him. We got to Yougottawanna's hip on the turn, and when Jason chirped to him, he spurted away from us."

Yougottawanna earned $41,250 and has now earned $626,624 with 10 victories in 32 starts.