Courtesy of the TDN
Gulfstream Park GULFSTREAM PARK HARDACRE MILE S.-GII, $300,0001m, CONQUEST BIG E, g, 5, (Tapit)
1ST BLACK TYPE WIN, 1ST GRADED STAKES WIN.
O-Daniel C. Hurtak
B-Gainesway Thoroughbreds Ltd. (KY)
T-Donna Green Hurtak
Lifetime Record: 20-5-2-1, $393,515.
Conquest Big E sprung a big upset in the Gulfstream Park Mile with a front-running victory over come-backing GI Kentucky Derby hero Always Dreaming. Away well from his rail draw, the gray seized the early advantage, ticking off opening splits of :23.57 and :45.88 with favored Always Dreaming stalking from second. Turning for home in front, Conquest Big E surged clear in the stretch and proved not for catching, skipping home to a decisive victory.
“When we got in position, I knew that he can run with these horses,” winning conditioner Donna Green Hurtak said. “He’s a very, very talented horse. He’s also a Tapit and they can be a little quirky. We’re just pleased he got to show his ability today.”
A $700,000 KEESEP yearling buy, Conquest Big E was initially campaigned by Conquest Stables and trainer Mark Casse He was purchased for Tommy Roberts for $110,000 from the Conquest dispersal at the 2016 Keeneland November sale.