Tuscan Evening figured to get loose on the lead in the Modesty Cap, and she did, setting an exceedingly slow pace. So when she won by a half-length over 16-1 Eclair de Lune, the first response was, 'meh.' But this actually was better than merely meh. Yes, TE got a favorable setup, but she flew home, with a furlong and a half in 16.89 seconds. That is flying, and her 9.5fs final time of 1:55.11 was .36 seconds faster than Workin for Hops' in the American Derby, that despite the fact that the three-quarter split in the American Derby was .86 seconds faster.
Big run, too, for second-place Eclair de Lune, who impressed me with her looks and composure in the paddock. Lightly raced 4yo filly could be quite good with progression / consistency.
Workin for Hops won the American Derby with a quick, cat-like move at the three-furlong pole. It will take more than one quick burst to win the Secretariat against the likes of Paddy O'Prado, but WFH clearly loves the AP lawn.
Not wowed by the AP 'Cap, but then the entire older-male turf division leaves something to be desired. Just as Well ran well enough to win the race for the second year in a row, but winner Rahystrada just got better trip.
