Loading ...Feb 15 2016
Nyquist strong in 2016 debut, winning San Vicente G2 Stakes hand ride
Monday, February 15
Santa Anita Park
Nyquist made his long awaited 2016 debut as a 3yo in the San Vicente G2 stakes race. The Uncle Mo colt took the lead early, setting strong fractions of 22.5, 44.49, 1.08.56, 1.20.71 en route to victory with a hand ride by Mario Gutierrez at 2-5.
2yo champ Nyquist
The champion whose last start was a win in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile at Keeneland last November, did not disappoint for trainer Doug O’neill and Reddam racing. He is now 6 for 6, and the horse that came closest to beating him, Swipe, is off the Derby trail for now.
It may seem odd to some that a Kentucky Derby contender would be sent to a sprint race in his first race of the year, but it’s not unheard of, and in fact has worked well in some cases.
Exaggerator also looked strong in his 3yo debut, finishing 2nd as expected at 5-2. He chased the 2yo champion around the track but could not catch him in the end. However, the Delta Jackpot winner did display the ability to stay close to the champ.
