Demonstrative Soars in New York Turf Writers
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Mrs. George Ohrstrom Jr.'s Demonstrative picked up the fourth top-level steeplechase victory of his career Aug. 25 when he registered a half-length victory over Barnstorming in the $150,000 New York Turf Writers Cup Stakes (NSA-I) at Saratoga Race Course.
Trained by Richard Valentine, the victory marked the second time Demonstrative has won the New York Turf Writers as the 7-year-old Elusive Quality gelding also took the 2012 edition of the race. He finished off the board in last year's edition.
A 7-year-old Elusive Quality gelding, Demonstrative moved into the top three behind early leader Pleasant Woodman 1 1/2 miles into the race. Under Robert Walsh, Demonstrative seized the advantage in midstretch and held off Jonathan Sheppard's Barnstorming for the victory.
Bred in Kentucky by Gainsborough Farm, Demonstrative completed the 2 3/8-mile test in 4:34.78 on firm turf.
Demonstrative, who is out of French group III winner, Loving Pride, by Quiet American, also has registered top-level steeplechase victories in last year's Calvin Houghland Iroquois Hurdle Stakes and the 2012 Colonial Cup Hurdle Stakes. In all, Demonstrative has won seven steeplechase stakes events and has placed in seven other steeplechase stakes.
A. P. Smithwick Memorial Steeplechase Stakes (NSA-I) winner Makari fell after clipping the final fence and died on the track Monday during the New York Turf Writers Cup. New York Racing Association veterinarian Dr. Anthony Verderosa said the horse died from neck trauma. Jockey Jack Doyle was uninjured.
The Associated Press contributed to this story.