“He’s a Little Tricky”: Never Having Made a Lead Before, Godolphin’s Homebred Clinches Crucial $400,000 Race

Every year in early July, the Monmouth Cup Stakes brings the house down at Monmouth Park in Oceanport, New Jersey. This Grade III American Thoroughbred horse race, which covers a distance of 1+1/8 miles, draws horses as young as three years old as well as older horses, promising a thrilling spectacle for equestrian fans.

With an enticing purse of $400,000 added to the mix, the Monmouth Cup Stakes stands as a highly anticipated highlight of the racing calendar. One horse, in particular, stood out as a potential game-changer in this year’s Monmouth Cup among the other shining stars on the track.

Godolphin’s Homebred Sensation, Takes Center Stage

According to Paulick Report, Godolphin’s homebred, Proxy, stepped into the spotlight, capturing hearts with his captivating determination.  In a display of sheer determination and a newfound running style, Proxy took the lead right from the start. When he decided to break from his usual strategy and lead the group at every stop, many people questioned whether this change would lead to success or failure. Proxy, who completed 1+1/8 miles in 1:49.99, set the early fractions with skill as the race progressed. Undeterred by challenges from Whelen Springs and Calibrate, Proxy maintained his composure, demonstrating his class and resilience.

Proxy, a 5-year-old Tapit sired stallion with an impressive record of six victories in 18 career outings, had already demonstrated his prowess on the track. The journey to the Monmouth Cup was not without its challenges, as Proxy’s previous unplaced finish in the Stephen Foster left some doubts lingering. However, with a grade 1 victory in the Clark at Churchill Downs and a thrilling triumph in the Oaklawn Handicap under his belt, Proxy’s talent was undeniable. As the favorite with odds of 1-5, Proxy carried the weight of expectations upon his strong shoulders.

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Joel Rosario, the jockey who had previously ridden Proxy to success, praised the horse’s equestrian skill. He said, “He’s a little tricky sometimes to ride. You have to let him do the work. I know he always tries. He never gives up. He just does what he does. I was on the best horse, and I rode him that way.” Rosario also mentioned how the pressure was intense but that did worry him. He continued, “He has so much class. I just let him show the way”. The jockey knew that the key to success was to let Proxy take the lead and dictate the pace.

The united equestrian winning team

Trainer Michael Stidham expressed his delight and surprise at Proxy’s performance, admitting that the horse had never before led a race in his career. The gamble to experiment with a new running style paid off, and Proxy’s determination to fight for the win was evident as he surged past the finish line, leaving his competitors in his wake.

While Proxy’s victory shone brightly on the horizon, the Monmouth Cup Stakes also witnessed the valiant efforts of other talented contenders. Horses like Whelen Springs and Antigravity put up spirited performances, showcasing their potential for future success. The Monmouth Cup Stakes continues to be a symbol of excitement and anticipation for equestrian fans all over the world as the racing world looks forward to the next exhilarating chapter in Proxy’s career.

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