Laurie’s Rocket took off late to make up three lengths in the final furlong to break his maiden by 1 1/4-lengths July 23 at Saratoga. The 2-year-old son of Bluegrass Cat was making his second career start following his second place effort in the debut May 30 at Churchill Downs.
Bluegrass Cat is a top 12 second-crop sire, with progeny earnings of $1.34 million.
The bay colt was midpack of seven for most of the 5 1/2-furlongs until finding his best stride in the last eighth mile to stop the clock in 1:04.74 on the firm track.
Owned by Willis Horton, Laurie’s Rocket cost his owner $300,000 at the 2010 Keeneland September yearling sale, the most expensive auction yearling of 2010 for his sire.
Laurie’s Rocket is out of the stakes-placed mare Clay’s Rocket, whose other foal is the stakes winner Greeley’s Rocket. Clay’s Rocket is a half sister to Grade 1 winner Adieu (Frizette S.). as well as Grade 3 winners Rapport (Victory Ride S.) and Direct Line (Gardenia H.).
With the win, Laurie’s Rocket is 1-1-0 from 2 starts, earning $39,800.
