March 15, 2025 - Colonial Downs, Race 5, USD $75,000, 1M
Dam: Ever So Clever , by Medaglia d'Oro
Owner: St. Elias Stable, Talla Racing, West Point Thoroughbreds and C J Stable
Breeder: Clearsky Farms (KY)
Trainer: Brad H. Cox
Making the journey from his Payson base in South Florida, Lion of Justice (Into Mischief-Ever So Clever, by Medaglia d'Oro) did not mind the new digs one iota as he graduated on debut over the blazing main strip at Colonial Downs on Saturday. Owned by St. Elias Stable, Talla Racing, West Point and C J Stable, the colt represented the pride well and took home a 'TDN Rising Star' for his effort.
Bred by Clearsky Farms, the $1.1 million Keeneland September purchase was slammed at the windows to the tune of even-money. On the hunt from the bell, Lion of Justice used his spot from the rail to command the top spot up the backstretch. The dark bay was closely followed by Hasten (Laoban), but around the far turn it was clear that the chalk had more fight left in him. Entering the lane in full control, the 3-year-old roared like one of the lions of Tsavo and staked his claim to the prize by a comfortable 6 1/2 lengths to the good.
The winner is a full-brother to fellow Cox trainee Everso Mischievous, GSW, $623,163. Dam Ever So Clever (Medaglia d'Oro), herself out of MSW Foxy Danseur (Mr. Greeley), was sent back to Lion of Justice's sire for the spring. Speaking of the all-conquering Into Mischief, this was his 50th 'TDN Rising Star' to-date.
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