Wet Paint Secures Victory in the 107th Running of Coaching Club American Oaks
A Remarkable Win
In an impressive display, Wet Paint overcame a challenging start and emerged victorious in the prestigious $500,000 Grade I Coaching Club American Oaks held at Saratoga Race Course. Guided by the skilled jockey Flavian Prat, the 3-year-old filly outperformed her four competitors in this classic race.
A Turbulent Beginning
The race took an eventful turn as Southlawn, the eventual last-place finisher, stumbled badly when the starting gate opened. As she attempted to regain her footing, she accidentally bumped into Wet Paint, causing her to lose stride and fall behind at the start.
An Impressive Comeback
Undeterred by the initial setback, Flavian Prat strategically kept Wet Paint towards the rear of the field during the mile-and-furlong contest. As they approached the far turn, with only 3/8ths left to the finish line, he urged her to accelerate. Responding to his cues, Wet Paint made a move on the turn and entered the home stretch in second place, trailing Sacred Wish by four lengths.
A Thrilling Finish
Flavian Prat’s expert riding skills were evident as he pushed Wet Paint to catch up with Sacred Wish at the sixteenth pole. The two fierce competitors battled neck and neck, but in the end, Wet Paint triumphed, crossing the finish line first by a neck, with Manny Franco aboard Sacred Wish. Gambling Girl, ridden by leading jockey Irad Ortiz, Jr., finished 81/2 lengths behind in third place, as her energy waned during the stretch. She’s Lookin Lucky and Southlawn completed the order of finish.
A Noteworthy Achievement
For Wet Paint, a Kentucky-bred daughter of Blame from the mare Sky Painter, this victory marks her fifth win out of nine starts and her first in Grade I company. Previously, she secured second place at Ellis Park and fourth place at Churchill Downs in her two other Grade I races.
A Steady Ascent
With this triumph, Wet Paint’s earnings have now crossed the million-dollar mark, showcasing her potential and talent on the racecourse.
The Betting Scene
As the second choice in the betting at 7-5 odds, those who backed Wet Paint collected $4.90 for a win, $3 for a place, and the minimum $2.10 for show bets. Sacred Wish, a 10-1 shot at post time, paid $5.90 for place and $2.80 for show. Gambling Girl, the 6-5 favorite, paid $2.10.
The Trainer’s Perspective
Kentucky-based trainer Brad Cox succinctly summarized his instructions to Flavian Prat, saying, “Let her break and find her way around. When she starts picking up, keep her out of trouble.”
Looking Ahead
When asked about Wet Paint’s prospects for the mile-and-quarter $600,000 Grade I Alabama Stakes on August 19, Brad Cox expressed confidence, stating, “That’s the logical spot moving forward. I think a mile and a quarter is definitely something she’s going to be able to handle based on her running style. And, she showed today she likes Saratoga.”
—
Enhance Your Wagering Strategy: For those seeking an edge in their betting endeavors, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the valuable insights and analysis offered through our selection of free horse picks. Discover a wealth of information to inform your wagering decisions during the Saratoga racing season. Visit our page for free horse picks and boost your chances of success. Happy racing!
