Eroy too good for Father Patrick
Published:Sunday | August 15, 2021 | 12:12 AMAinsley Walters - Sunday Gleaner Writer
BACK-TO-FORM importee EROY closed a four-timer for leading rider Anthony Thomas, scooting away from favourite FATHER PATRICK on the home turn of the Blumenthal Trophy.
Though losing to FATHER PATRICK in the six-furlong LADY GEETA Trophy on June 7, EROY returned to prove his subsequent fast-time win at nine furlongs and 25 yards, on July 12, was no flash in the pan.
Stalking FATHER PATRICK, who was ridden to lead past stablemate ROJORN DI PILOT, EROY, running 10lb lighter than the favourite, easily took charge entering the straight.
FATHER PATRICK had no answer to EROY’s kick, leaving the chase to lightweight ROJORN DI PILOT, who attempted a rally inside the last half-furlong but lacked finish after setting the early splits.
DUKE closed on the outside for third as 3-1 chance EROY notched his second consecutive victory, posting 1:19.1 for the six-and-a-half furlong trip.
Thomas’ four-timer moved him to 75 winners, well on path to a third title, 16 clear of Dane Nelson with whom he shared last season’s crown.
The two-time champion booted back-to-back 2-5 favourites, MARKOFAPRINCE and CORAZON SIN MIEDO, in the third and fourth events, before landing his third with 11-1 upsetter, ELITIST, in the sixth.
Racing continues at Caymanas Park on Saturday.