Ava's Grace, a filly from the first crop of Laoban, was the second juvenile of the day to provide a son of Uncle Mo with their winner, following Garoppolo, who became the first victor for Outwork Friday at Belmont. Dipatched at 6-1 in this career bow, the bay kept close tabs on the leader from a ground-saving fourth through a :22.96 first quarter. Posing a challenge as the half went up in :46.58, she wore down Sariah Sariah (Tonalist) late to win by a half-length.
Laoban, who was also campaigned by Southern Equine Stables in partnership with McCormick Racing, scored his lone career victory in the 2016 GII Jim Dandy S. He stands in New York at Sequel Farm. The winner's dam did not produce a foal in 2019, but had a Street Sense filly this year.
7th-Ellis, $20,200, Msw, 7-3, 2yo, f, 5f, :59.38, ft.
AVA'S GRACE (f, 2, Laoban–Cover Girl Elle, by Out of Place) Lifetime Record: 1-1-0-0, $9,600. Click for the Equibase.com chart. O/B-Southern Equine Stables, LLC (KY); T-Robertino Diodoro.
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