Risk It uncatchable on debut under Tyler Gaffalione (NYRA/Coglianese)
NYRA Press Office
SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y.— Winchell Thoroughbreds and Three Chimneys Farm’s Risk It earned a 79 Beyer Speed Figure for his dominant debut in the Saturday opener at Saratoga– a six-furlong maiden special weight for juveniles.
Trained by Hall of Famer Steve Asmussen, the son of Gun Runner broke sharply from his inside post and put two lengths on the field by the first point of call, maintaining his control en route to a 4 1/2-length stroll under jockey Tyler Gaffalione.
Asmussen spoke of how the $500,000 Keeneland September Yearling Sale purchase was highly touted during his pre-training at El Primero Training Center, which is operated by Asmussen’s parents Keith and Marilyn Asmussen.
“He’s a very impressive colt,” Asmussen said. “Obviously very attractive and commanded plenty of money as a yearling. He went through my parents’ program in Laredo and they always thought very highly of him. He’s been very professional and competitive.”
The winning effort could warrant a start in the Grade 3 Iroquois on September 16 going a one-turn mile at Churchill Downs.
“That’s what we were hoping for and we were thinking about it,” Asmussen said. “He’s trained like he’ll get a mile. Obviously with his pedigree and what he’s shown to this point, we’re going to continue to dream.”
Bred in Kentucky by Gun Runner Syndicate, De Sousa Stables & Cranford Bloodstock, Risk It is out of the Broken Vow mare Wedding Jitters.
