Atras' NYRA Win Streak Snapped at Six

Even Rob Atras can't win them all.

The 39-year-old trainer saw his bid to match the New York Racing Association mark for consecutive wins come to an end March 11 when Jokemeister  finished sixth as the 5-2 third choice in the sixth race at Aqueduct Racetrack, snapping Atras' streak at six, two shy of what is believed to be the circuit's record. (Away from NYRA, Atras sent out Balpool  to finish fourth in the sixth race at Laurel Park March 10)

"It had to end sometime," Atras said.

Atras picked up his sixth straight NYRA win earlier on the card when Beach Haven Thoroughbreds' Warman Road  (Unified  ) captured the first race.

"This week we happened to get some horses in good spots. We had good trips and excellent rides. It all came together for a short period time, and you have to be grateful about that," Atras said.

His five previous winners before Saturday were Central Pride , Dame Cinco , Simply , and Super Quality  on Friday.

Atras, who began training in 2009, entered racing on Saturday having trained 347 winners from 1,603 starts, with his horses making more than $13.8 million. His stable has won at a rate of 20% or higher each year since 2019.

The mark of eight straight NYRA wins is shared by Edward I. Kelley and Oscar Barrera in 1983, Angel Penna Sr. in 1982, and John Parisella in 1973.

It did not take long for Atras to return to the winner's circle as his next starter, Robert Derr's New York-bred Rossa Veloce  (Girolamo ) won the featured $100,000 Correction Stakes.

"Maybe she can start a new streak," Atras said.