The addition of blinkers and a stretch-out proved key Dec. 2 for the Brad Grady and David Grund-owned Girvin colt Seminole Chief , who posted a 12-1 upset in the $300,000, 1 1/16-mile FTBOA Florida Sire In Reality Stakes Dec. 2 for juveniles at Gulfstream Park.
Prominent from the start chasing front-runner Mattingly from second through early fractions of :23.43, :46.69, and 1:11.44, the Jack Sisterson-trained 2-year-old engaged that pacesetter at the top of the lane and took a short lead at the top of the stretch. The undefeated Bentornato , looking for a Florida sire stakes series sweep, advanced on the outside from third to get eye-to-eye with Seminole Chief in deep stretch.
Seminole Chief, gr/ro, 2/c
Girvin — Secret Song, by Dunkirk
Owner: Brad Grady and David Grund
Breeder: Brad Grady & Misty Grady (FL)
Trainer: Jack Sisterson
Jockey: Paco Lopez
Information provided by Equibase at time of entry.
Pedigree Notes
Girvin stands at Airdrie Stud for $30,000 (2024).
Sale History
OBSJUN2023 • $80,000 • Consignor: Bobby Dodd • Buyer: HND Bloodstock.
Pedigree Notes
Girvin stands at Airdrie Stud for $30,000 (2024).
Under the heavy encouragement of jockey Paco Lopez, Seminole Chief turned back the challenge from the heavy favorite and held on by a diminishing half-length.
The 32-1 longshot Secret Lover nailed heavy 1-5 favorite Bentornato for the place spot, keying a $514 exacta. Seminole Chief paid $27 for a $2 win wager. Third-place finisher Bentornato finished 1 3/4 lengths in front of Mattingly, who faded to hold on for fourth.
The final time for the 1 1/16 miles over a fast track was 1:45.59.
Seminole Chief, now 2-0-0 from three starts, increased his earnings to $195,960.
The winner, bred in Florida by Brad and Misty Grady, was a $80,000 purchase at the Ocala Breeders’ Sales Company June 2023 2-Year-Olds and Horses of Racing Age Sale.
