6th-Ellis, $46,200, Msw, 8-30, 2yo, 6 1/2f, 1:16.52, ft.
UPSTRIKER (c, 2, Upstart#tot">Upstart–Casanova Striker, by Smart Strike) opened with the money on but drifted up to a generous 11-1 at the off while looking to become his first-crop sire's fifth winner and second in as many days after the impressive unveiling Saturday at Saratoga of pricey Founder. Showing good speed to chase in second, the dark bay confronted pacesetter Bluegrass Pharoah (American Pharoah) after a :45.98 half. He went by willingly at the top of the lane, and widened at will to score by five lengths. Polished Chrome (California Chrome) rallied into second over the frontrunner. The winner, who hails from a deep family developed by legendary breeder Ned Evans, is half to Midnight Soiree (Include), SW, $214,338; Silver Time (Indian Charlie), SW, $159,932; and Ciguaraya (Latent Heat), SW, $186,998. Her dam produced a Summer Front colt last term. Sales history: $47,000 RNA Ylg '19 KEESEP. Lifetime Record: 1-1-0-0, $27,720. Click for the Equibase.com chart.
O-William S. Sparks & Brereton C. Jones; B-Brereton C. Jones (KY); T-Ron Moquett.
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