Roadhog takes the Maryland Million Turf
Where to start. The Maryland Million delivered again – with Eighttofasttocatch and Roadhog taking the big ones. Results like that are why people go to the races.
Laurel Park packed in 18,000 fans on Maryland’s day at the races. It’s a long way from Kelso and the International back in the day, but you couldn’t stand there and not think about history, about impact, about a Thoroughbred community. Trainers congratulated each other. Breeders randomly showed up in winner’s circle photos. Full-brothers ran. Sisters trained winners. An unsung hero received an award.
On the track, two races provided a fitting climax late in the day. First, three regional gladiators met in the $125,000 Turf at a mile. Ben’s Cat brought his $1.6 million bankroll and turf-sprinting excellence. Change Of Command brought his 17-2 (and a half) sculpted frame and 1:33.33 mile time. Roadhog brought his 2012 win in the Turf, eight career victories and run-anybody-down determination.
Roadhog put that effort to good use as he wore down a game but out of his element Ben’s Cat in the final yards to repeat for owner/breeder Ellendale Racing and trainer Lizzie Merryman. The 6-year-old chestnut, named by his breeders because of his attitude at home on the farm as a baby, sat behind Capital Fellow and Ben’s Cat early, moved out in the stretch and rolled home. Ben’s Cat, making his first start beyond 6 furlongs since 2011, ran a winning race and dug in late but could not hold of the winner’s surge. Roadhog won by a neck with Target Sighted nearly 3 lengths back in third. Change Of Command threw in a rare dull try and finished eighth of nine.
Proud of her horse, Merryman spoke for many when she said, “I feel bad that I beat Ben’s Cat.”
She’s a fan, too.