TDN RISING STARS

August 12, 2005 - Arlington Park, Race 8, Msw, USD $27,000, 6f

Strong Contender, c, 2, 2003 by Maria's Mon

1st Dam: Kopenhagen (MSP), by Dynaformer
2nd Dam: Eterna Fe (Arg), by Good Bloke (Arg)
3rd Dam: Eternity (Arg), by Con Brio II

Owner: John C Oxley
Breeder: Haras Santa Maria Sa de Araras (KY)
Trainer: John T Ward Jr

Strong Contender continued the success of consignor Murray Smith's saletoppers, following unbeaten What a Song in Florida. This colt, who topped Keeneland April at $800,000 after working a quarter in :21 2/5, was sent postward as the 5-2 favorite. In midpack early, the rangy youngster swept to the lead on the outside and was ridden out to a 3 3/4-length score over Bubba Swayback (Cat Thief). Lifetime Record: 1-1-0-0, $16,200.