Karma Racing's Southwind Trini conquered the wind, rain, an off track and eight rivals on Sunday night to capture the Mares Open at Pompano Park in 1:52.3.
The five-year-old daughter of Rocknroll Hanover was driven to victory by Bruce Ranger and led virtually every step of the mile, surviving seemingly suicidal fractions of :26.4, :54.2 and 1:23.2 in the process.
Her margin of victory was one and a quarter lengths over Love You Bye (Jimmy Whittemore). Loretta (Ed Hensley) rallied for third, eight and a half lengths off the winner while Wildfire Osborne finished fourth. Bombilla Hanover picked up the final award -- her quarter move for the top backfiring, leaving her hung out to dry the remainder of the journey.
The victory, only the third of the year for Southwind Trini, sent her seasonal bounty just a shade ($13) under $50,000, but over $200,000 lifetime.
"This was a very demanding trip for her," said a mud-splattered Ranger after the win. "With the wind and rain -- especially the wind -- it was a very tough journey and I had to get after her in the stretch a bit. The wire sure came at the right time."
As the fourth choice in the wagering (along with her entry-mate Rub Thing), Southwind Trini returned $12.80 to win.
(Pompano Park)