Four years ago, Cactus Creek won an elimination of the prestigious Little Brown Jug and then was second to Mr Feelgood in the final. But since then the veteran pacer continues to chug along and be a valuable commodity.
Earlier this year, the seven-year-old Artsplace gelding lowered his lifetime record to 1:50 at Tioga Downs, and since returning to Monticello Raceway on June 29, Cactus Creek has strung together two consecutive triumphs against the best pacers on the grounds.
Yesterday, with Mike Forte at the controls, Cactus Creek made it two in a row. He wired a winners/over field with a 1:59:4 triumph in a pouring rainstorm.
Despite having to start from the eight-hole and getting roughed up to a :28:4 opening quarter, Cactus Creek made the top and from there it was catch me if you can -- and nobody could. The veteran pacer rambled to a two-length victory as the rains poured down.
Cactus Creek, who won the 2006 Adios Stakes in 1:50:2, paid $4.90 to win yesterday.
(With files from Monticello)