HOT SPRINGS, Ark. – One week after teaming to win one of Oaklawn’s longest races – the 1 ½ miles Temperence Hill – with Carlos L., trainer Mac Robertson and jockey Alex Canchari were back in the winner’s circle after taking Saturday’s $150,000 Gazebo Stakes, a six-furlong sprint, with Xtreme Racing Stables LLC’s Sir Wellington.
Breaking from the rail, Sir Wellington sat behind the early speed as Lock Up shot out of the gate and held a five-length advantage through an opening quarter in :21. The winner moved within an half-length after a half-mile in :44 4/5, gained control at the top of the stretch and had just enough to hold off a fast closing Jaxon Traveler by head. Game Day Play finished third, a half-length in front of 4-5 favorite Cazadero. The winning time was 1:10 1/5 for six furlongs over a fast track.
“I had a really good trip, really clean trip,” Canchari said. “I just want to thank the owners, Xtreme Racing and (trainer) Mac Robertson for the opportunity. He’s a really nice horse. I’m just lucky to be a pilot on him.”
Sir Wellington, a 3-year-old Palace colt, was winning for the third time in six career starts and has now earned $203,370. He returned $15.40, $4.60 and $3 as the 6-1 third choice in the field of six.
“Jaxon Traveler got in a little trouble and ran out of real estate,” Robertson said. “We’ll take it. He’s run two good races here. I don’t see any reason not to run him back here ($200,000 Bachelor Stakes April 24).”
Gazebo Replay
Live racing resumes Sunday at Oaklawn with a 1 p.m. first post. The Infield will be open and no reservations are required. Chairs and blankets are permitted (coolers, tents, backpacks are not permitted). Gates will open at 11 a.m. Guests can enter through the North Alley off Central Ave. across from the Best Western hotel.
Press Release
Photo: Sire Wellington (Coady Photography)
