(July 2, 2008) – Coach Ryan, owned by Rick Pitino’s partnership Ol Memorial Stable and C.E. Glasscock, took advantage of an early speed duel to rally from off the pace to win Wednesday afternoon’s $43,100 Gerald R. Farrell Classic for 3-year-olds at Churchill Downs by a widening 2 ¾ lengths over The Darp.
Ridden by Calvin Borel, Coach Ryan raced well off the pace of dueling leaders E Z Phone Home and The Darp in the run down the backstretch. Saving ground along the rail under Borel, Coach Ryan split horses at the three-sixteenths pole, collared the leaders at the eighth pole and disposed of The Darp in the final 100 yards.
A gelded son of Broad Brush, Coach Ryan covered the seven furlongs on a fast main track in 1:22.39 to give leading trainer Tom Amoss his 31st victory of the meet.
The victory was the second in six starts for Coach Ryan and increased his career earnings to $43,070 with the $27,031 winner’s check.
Coach Ryan returned $27.20, $12.40 and $8.80. The Darp, ridden by Robby Albarado, paid $3.60 and $3. Finishing third, another 3 ¾ lengths back, was Sinister, who paid $8 to show under Corey Lanerie.
Live racing continues Thursday at Churchill Downs with a special 2:45 p.m. (all times Eastern) twilight program to kick-start the holiday weekend, which doubles as closing weekend for the 52-day Spring Meet.
Thursday’s 11-race card will showcase a $5,732.25 Pick 6 carryover on the final six races. Also, on-track patrons can take advantage special happy hours from 4-7 p.m. in the paddock garden area food and drink specials and live music by Songs For Tuesday.
Racing on Friday, Saturday and Sunday will begin at 1:15 p.m.