Big Invasion Finishes Strong in Mahony Stakes
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Photo: Coglianese Photos
Big Invasion wins the Mahony Stakes at Saratoga Race Course
Trainer Christophe Clement had high praise for Reeves Thoroughbred Racing's Big Invasion Aug. 14 after he took down the $150,000 Mahony Stakes, a 5 1/2-furlong turf sprint for 3-year-olds at Saratoga Race Course.
"Today was his best race," said a smiling Clement. "He's a very good horse, he keeps winning, so there's no doubt about it, but today I thought he behaved better than he's ever done."
Emerging from post 2 under regular rider Joel Rosario, Big Invasion spotted the pacesetting That's Right seven lengths as the field was led through a swift opening quarter-mile in :21.76 over the firm turf. Cadamosto was patiently handled by Tyler Gaffalione two lengths back, with Surprise Boss tracking in third.
A determined That's Right held his lead through a half-mile in :44.14 and dug in to maintain his position at the top of the lane, but Cadamosto loomed to the outside with Big Invasion making giant strides down the center of the racetrack. Determined Kingdom launched his bid between rivals, but Big Invasion proved much the best and won with ease, crossing the wire three lengths clear in a final time of 1:01.42.
Cadamosto held off Determined Kingdom by a half-length, with Sky and Sand completing the superfecta 1 1/4 lengths behind them.
Big Invasion's connections greet him upon his return to the winner's circle
Bred in Kentucky by John O'Meara, Big Invasion raised his career earnings to $444,045. Returning $2.70 for a $2 win wager, he improved his record to 6-1-0 from seven starts. He was a $72,000 purchase by Taproot Bloodstock from Vinery Sales' consignment to the 2020 Keeneland September Yearling Sale.
"He looked better than he's ever done and you know, he came from out of it," Clement said. "He broke well, (Joel Rosario) took him back, he behaved well and he finished very well, so I'm thrilled. I'm very happy."
Clement said Big Invasion may be ready to take the step up to top company at the Breeders' Cup in November at Keeneland.
"I've always thought he was the best 3-year-old in the country on the grass sprinting. We just don't have a program with grade 1, grade 2, that's the way the program is made," Clement said.
"But, I don't know, I'd have to talk to Mr. Reeves. I need to give him some time at some stage and maybe we can think about a race like the Breeders' Cup even if it's very ambitious. Why not?"
Big Invasion is out of the Curlin mare Curls In Place, who has produced three winners out of three foals to start. She has a yearling son of Air Force Blue and dropped a War of Will colt this year.