Dolphus Prevails in Fair Grounds Allowance
Description:
Scratched from what would have been his stakes debut in the Lecomte Stakes (gr. III) Jan. 16, Dede McGehee's Dolphus took a step forward Jan. 31 at Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots.
A half brother to 2009 Horse of the Year Rachel Alexandra, Dolphus took his first race against winners in a Sunday allowance/optional claimer at a mile and 70 yards.
The 3-year-old Lookin At Lucky colt, out of the Roar mare Lotta Kim, hit the gate at the start and trailed in the four-horse field in the backstretch—two lengths behind early leader Royal Ransom. He moved past favored Harlan Punch in the final turn and went by the early leader and runner-up Jensen in the stretch to win by a three-quarters of a length.
With jockey Brian Hernandez Jr. aboard for trainer Joe Sharp, Dolphus hit the wire in 1:44.69.
A debut winner at Fair Grounds in November, Dolphus came in third in his second start, another allowance/optional claimer at a mile and 70 yards Dec. 18 at Fair Grounds.
LAMARRA: Half Brother to Rachel Alexandra Wins Debut
Off as the 5-2 second choice, Dolphus paid $7.20 and $3.40. There was no show wagering.