Friday, November 02, 2012

Calidoscopio rallies for victory in the Marathon

The Argentinean-bred Calidoscopio, sent off at odds of 17-1, turned in one of the most spectacular runs this writer has ever seen to win the $500,000 Breeders' Cup Marathon (gr. II) this afternoon by three or four lengths.

Under a perfect ride from Aaron Gryder, Calidoscopio dropped way, way behind the leaders early on, trailing the field by at least twenty lengths during the early stages of the race. In the meantime, Jaycito and Commander were the early leaders, with Atigun and Juniper Pass also showing speed. Balladry, Grassy, and  Fame and Glory were next, followed by Romp, Eldaafer, Sense of Purpose, Almudena, Not Abroad, and Calidoscopio.

Moving down the backstretch for the final time, about five or six furlongs from home, Calidoscopio made his run for the lead. With sudden acceleration, he roared past a tiring Fame and Glory and Almudena, and sustained his momentum around the turn. In the meantime, Atigun had taken over the lead from Jaycito and appeared to be moving very strongly.

Turning for home, Juniper Pass and Grassy moved up to challenge Atigun for the lead, but all three were quickly inhaled by Calidoscopio, who had split horses around the turn before shifting to the outside for racing room. With massive strides, the nine-year-old horse swallowed up his rivals and left them far behind, coasting for an easy win in 2:57.25 seconds.

Grassy edged out Atigun for third, while Juniper Pass rounded out the top four.

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