TORONTO, October 8, 2021 – Ironstone coasted to victory in the co-featured $150,000 Clarendon Stakes Presented by HBPA of Ontario, Friday at Woodbine.
Ademar Santos piloted the son of Mr Speaker to his second straight stakes score and once again, the grey colt did it with the greatest of ease.
Sent off as the 1-5 choice in the race for Ontario-bred two-year-olds, Ironstone was sent to the front and established a lead of a half-length after a quarter timed in :22.88. The advantage grew to two lengths after a half in :45.56.
From there, it was simply matter of how much the winning margin would be.
At the wire, the Willie Armata trained colt was six lengths ahead of his nearest rival, Silent Runner. Silent Resent was third.
The final time was 1:03.53.
“He was just very sharp,” praised Santos. “He broke sharp and he just wanted to go. He took the lead and I slowed him down pretty good. So, when the horse [Bossy Holiday] came to him, it was easy… I just moved my hands and he took off.”
Ironstone paid $2.50 for the win.
It was déjà vu for the winning connections, who came into the Clarendon off a dominating 8 ½-length triumph in the 6 ½-furlong main track Simcoe Stakes on August 29 at Woodbine.
“He’s a good horse, and every time he runs and when he works, he gallops out phenomenal,” said Armata. “There’s nothing more you can ask from this guy. He’s just given us everything we’ve asked for.”
Bred in Ontario by Kingsview Farms, Ironstone, owned by Tequesta Racing Inc. and Jupiter Leasing Co., launched his career with a runner-up effort in June and was fifth in his next start.
Woodbine, Tbred, October 8, 2021 Race 7 – YouTube
For info on the Best Breeders’ Cup Seminar click HERE
Woodbine Press Release
Photo 1: Ironstone and jockey Ademar Santos hold a six-length lead at the finish line to win the Clarendon Stakes on October 8, 2021 at Woodbine. (Michael Burns Photo)
Photo 2: Ironstone and jockey Ademar Santos stride away to win the Clarendon Stakes on October 8, 2021 at Woodbine. (Michael Burns Photo)
