D'Amato Keeps Rolling With Balnikhov in Oceanside
Image:
Description:
Photo: Benoit Photo
Balnikhov wins the Oceanside Stakes on Opening Day at Del Mar
Coming off a record-breaking meet at Santa Anita Park, the stellar wave of Phil D'Amato momentum crashed upon the shores of Del Mar as Balnikhov swept to victory in the July 22 Oceanside Stakes on Opening Day.
A private overseas purchase for the partnership of Little Red Feather Racing, Madaket Stables, and Old Bones Racing Stable, Balnikhov showed incredible promise since joining D'Amato's Southern California barn but kept falling short of landing in the winner's circle. The 3-year-old son of Adaay was the runner-up in the Singletary Stakes, American Turf Stakes Presented by BMW (G2T), and fourth last-time out in the June 4 Cinema Stakes, a race in which D'Amato accepted full responsibility for the gelding's subpar performance.
Racing without blinkers, Balnikhov benefited from a masterful ride from Umberto Rispoli, relaxing beautifully at the back of the pack well off the lively pace of :22.62 and :46.30. Past the half-mile, Balnikhov began to weave his way through horses and once tipped to the inside in deep stretch, he powered up the rail, rocketing by Anmer Hall and Barsabas for a 1 1/2-length win.
Balnikhov, earning his first stakes tally, was timed in 1:34.85 for the mile on a firm turf course. Anmer Hall, at 29-1, and Barsabas, at 55-1, completed a trifecta that paid a whopping $1,648.65.
Post-time favorite Mackinnon , making his first start since finishing second in the Feb. 12 El Camino Real Derby, checked in fourth.