Union Rags stamped himself as the favorite for the Breeders' Cup Juvenile -- and for that matter, next year's Kentucky Derby -- when he overcame a great deal of trouble to win the $400,000 Champagne Stakes (gr. I) in decisive, dominating fashion.
Under Javier Castellano, Union Rags got off to a less-than-stellar start when bumped by Right to Vote. However, he recovered nicely to settle off the pace as Right to Vote raced away to set the pace at 26-1. The opening fractions were quick: :22.74 and :45.84.
Turning for home, Union Rags found himself in a pocket behind Right to Vote and sandwiched between two other runners. Castellano tried to guide him to the outside but there was no room. Then he tried to send him inside but there was no room. Then Takes the Gold drifted to the outside, giving Union Rags an opening. The colt didn't hesitate for a second, and under a strong hand ride by Castellano he burst through with speed and power to win drawing away by five lengths in 1:35.55.
Second-choice Alpha rallied well for second, but was in no way a threat to the winner. Right to Vote stayed on well for third while Takes the Gold finished fourth.
-Keelerman
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