Wow, what can you say about Ascend – be patient!!   Since he was three he’s been running in his maiden, allowances, and last time out a Listed Race, five of which he’s won (including his Listed Race) and today, at the age of five, he faced Grade 1 company  in the Grade 1 Manhattan Stakes at Belmont where he beat some of the best distance horses in the country.  He’s a pretty laid back horse who is having a lie down at every opportunity which is lovely to see.  Many congratulations to Stone Farm who owned and bred him and part-owners Madaket Stables.

Ascend Shocks Manhattan Rivals In Graded Stakes Debut

Credit Annette Jasko

Credit Adam Mooshian

Header photograph by Adam Coglianese

BIG shout out to a great run by Irish War Cry, what a performance!  As Jerry Baily said afterwards, he ran a great race, got the mile and half well but the winner just got it little better.  Who knows who’s going to stay the distance but it was good to see him enjoy himself and run a genuine race.  He was the only clean one at the end too!  VERY proud of his performance.