Bern Identity turned a ground-saving trip into a strong victory in the Sanford Stakes (gr. II) this afternoon at Saratoga, rallying past a stubborn Handsome Jack to win the historic juvenile race by 1 1/4 lengths.
Ridden to victory by Rosie Napravnik, Bern Identity broke a bit slowly, but quickly recovered to settle into the fourth position as Handsome Jack set a quick pace of :21.70 and :44.70. Brave Dave was right behind him in second, 2 1/2 lengths clear of Rose Junction, Bern Identity, and Special Jo, all of whom were racing together. Hightail, Onetwentyeight, and John Gordon were the early trailers.
Turning for home, Bern Identity shifted off the rail and came after Handsome Jack, wearing him down inside the eighth pole to secure the victory. Onetwentyeight rallied well for third, while Brave Dave, John Gordon, Special Jo, Hightail, and Rose Junction completed the order of finish.
The final time for six furlongs was 1:11.13. The winner is trained by Kelly Breen and owned by George and Lori Hall. In addition to the winner's share of the $200,000 purse, Bern Identity also earned a $100,000 bonus for winning a Saratoga graded stakes race following a victory in a maiden special weight at Belmont Park.
-Keelerman
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