One Liner
One Liner kept his aspirations in the USD2 million Kentucky Derby very much alive after producing a stirring display to race away with the USD500,000 G3 Southwest Stakes (1700m) yesterday.
The colt lifted his record to three wins from as many starts as he ran through the line resolutely at his first attempt at an extended trip. At the line One Liner had three-and-a-half lengths to spare over his nearest rival giving every indication he may be capable of extending his speed further.
“I’m very pleased with his race,” said champion trainer Todd Pletcher.
“[One Liner] handled things very professionally. He shipped and settled in well. It looked like he finished strong and may have left something in reserve, which is encouraging.
Jockey John Valezquez was equally positive about the performance and the possibility of One Liner being able to improve further. The champion rider settled One Liner in four position during the run before shaking his charge up before the corner to make a long sustained run at the leaders.
“[One Liner] broke real well and once he got around the first turn he relaxed for me. He pricked his ears and wasn’t really paying attention. I wasn’t concerned about getting to the other horses. I just wanted to get his attention. By the time we got to the three-eighths pole, I had to get aggressive with him and let him know it was time to get busy. Then he got aggressive and then he got competitive. From there I knew he had it won.” Velazquez said post race.
One Liner is one of a series of promising colts owned in partnership by the China Horse Club, WinStar Farm and SF Bloodstock that includes the G3 winner Theory and the stakes placed American Anthem.
If you would like to learn more about the China Horse Club exclusive membership offer, please email your inquiry to horses@chinahorseclub.com