The Lumber Guy, racing on just two weeks rest, turned back a determined bid from Brigand to win the $200,000 Jerome Stakes (gr. II) by 2 3/4 lengths.
Ridden to victory by Michael Luzzi, The Lumber Guy got off to a quick start in a field of six and went straight to the early lead while being pressured by Brigand. The two quickly sprinted clear of the field, leading by three lengths through an opening quarter in :22.98 and by two lengths through a half-mile in :45.83. Dan and Sheila and Term Loan were racing in third and fourth, alternating that position as they raced down the backstretch, while Adirondack King and Stirred Up were the early trailers.
Toward the end of the backstretch and entering the turn, Term Loan became very rank and advanced under a strong hold, pulling to within two lengths from the lead before retreating once again. Then Adirondack King made his move, rallying along the rail to try and get into contention. However, The Lumber Guy and Brigand turned back the challenges and continued their personal duel into the homestretch.
For a few moments, it appeared as though Brigand was ready to wear down his rival and win decisively, but The Lumber Guy just kept on finding more, and inside the eighth pole it became clear that he was on his way to victory. In deep stretch, he turned back Brigand's final challenge and drew away late to score in convincing fashion, stopping the clock for a mile in 1:36.04.
Brigand finished much the best of the rest, three lengths clear of a late-running Stirred Up. Dan and Sheila, Adirondack King, and Term Loan completed the order of finish.
The winner is owned by Barry K. Schwartz and trained by Michael Hushion. He earned $120,000 for his victory, which was his third in four starts.
-Keelerman
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