Irad Ortiz Jr. took back. Close Hatches took over.
Rarely does the defining moment come so early. Rarely do we see the likes of Close Hatches.
Juddmonte Farm’s 4-year-old filly dominated the Grade 1 Personal Ensign. Trained by Bill Mott and ridden by Joel Rosario, Close Hatches toyed with six rivals, including four-time Grade 1 winner Princess Of Sylmar who faltered to be fifth in the $500,000 stakes.
Breaking from the rail, Ortiz cued Antipathy to the lead while Rosario allowed Close Hatches to stalk. For a furlong, it played out like just like it looked on paper. Then Ortiz attempted to slow it down, bracing against the third choice.
Close Hatches scoffed. Rosario laughed. And it was all over.
Using her natural speed like a pyromaniac uses a match, Close Hatches rushed past Antipathy, opening up 3 lengths before turning down the backstretch. The daughter of First Defence posted the first quarter mile in :23.05 and a half in :46.61.
Ears flicking, mud splashing, Close Hatches rolled along as Antipathy tried to stay within her wake. Wearing blinkers for the first time and trying to snap a two-race losing streak, Princess Of Sylmar stayed wide as California shipper Fiftyshadesofhay slipped through on the rail. Leaving the backside, Close Hatches led comfortably by 2 lengths as John Velazquez pumped away on Fiftyshadesofhay, Ortiz tried to rev up Antipathy and Javier Castellano implored Princess Of Sylmar.
Nothing happened.
To read the rest of the Personal Ensign recap, download Saturday’s digital edition of The Saratoga Special presented by Keeneland Sales.
