August 20, 2023 - Ellis Park, Race 7, Msw, USD $70,000, 5F
1st Dam: Arbol
2st Dam: Forest Heiress
2st Dam: Penniless Heiress
Owner: Godolphin (KY)
Breeder: Godolphin (KY)
Trainer: Brad Cox
Alder (Hard Spun)'s first trip to the gate July 15 at Ellis Park resulted in him being declared a non-starter after he became tangled and unseated Gerardo Corrales just as the bell sounded. With Corrales back aboard, no such issues plagued this 2-year-old colt as he sparkled down the lane to win on debut at Ellis Park on Sunday afternoon. The bold effort earned him 'TDN Rising Star' honors.
Off at 9-5 here, the Godolphin homebred settled midpack up the backstretch as a trio vied for the lead into the far turn. Taking aim at that bunch, Alder took the overland route with a sweeping four-wide move before the quarter pole, shifted to another gear running down the lane and won impressively by 6 1/4 lengths over fellow firster Honky Tonk Highway (City of Light).
The winner's dam foaled a colt by Street Boss Mar. 2 and she was bred to Mystic Guide for 2024. Second dam Forest Heiress (Forest Wildcat) is a multiple Grade III winner and counts GI Frank J. DeFrancis Memorial Dash S. hero Wildcat Heir as a full-brother. This is Hard Spun's 13th 'TDN Rising Star'.
Alder's victory capped a productive weekend for the Godolphin operation, which was represented Saturday by maiden winners at Ellis Park and Colonial Downs and an allowance winner-as well as impressive debut runner-up Hunt Ball (Into Mischief) and GI Alabama S. runner-up Wet Paint (Blame)-at Saratoga.
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