Gal in a Rush lived up to her name, rallying from last through the first 4 1/2 furlongs to outclass the rest of the field over the final two to win the Hendrie Stakes (G3) July 6 at Woodbine.
The victory is the first graded stakes triumph for the daughter of Ghostzapper .
The CAN$140,900 Hendrie featured a field of nine fillies and mares 3 years old and up.
With Kazushi Kimura in the irons, Gal in a Rush was content letting the race come to her. But as the field approached the final turn to head down the stretch, Kimura swung the mare eight wide where she powered her way to the wire in 1:15.54.
"She's the type to take it easy for the first half and try to finish up strong," said Kimura. "I tried to put on the pressure and make sure I'm in the clear. That's what I did today. It's kind of like gambling, but she just responded so well."
Trained by Christophe Clement and owned by West Point Thoroughbreds, Chris Larsen, and Titletown Racing Stables, Gal in a Rush had to overcome a strong start by Owen's Tour Guide, who led from the gate until about 70 yards from the finish, coming in 1 1/4 lengths short of victory. Play the Music was third and longshot Awesome Treat was fourth.
Gal in a Rush, bred in Kentucky by Tom and Mary Lou Teal and Adena Springs, paid $15.10.
