2009 Excelsior H. (G3) - Giant Moon

Description

Albert Fried Jr.s Giant Moon, allowed to dawdle with Cool Coal Man through pedestrian early fractions, out-dueled that rival through the lane to post a half-length victory Saturday afternoon in Aqueducts 97th running of the Grade 3, $199334 Excelsior for three-year-olds and up at nine furlongs on the main track. Giant Moon, a 4-year-old, New York-bred Giants Causeway colt hooked Cool Coal Man from the start on the fast track, but they were allowed to get away with a pace of 25.45, 50.69, 1:14.76 and 1:38.62. When they finally set down to do business in the lane, Giant Moon had the leader targeted and moved away to win in 1:50.90. It was an emotional comeback for Giant Moon and his connections, as he finished fourth last year in the Wood Memorial and then was badly beaten in Preakness. He returned in May after overcoming issues with his hooves. Its so gratifying, said winning trainer Richard Schosberg, as Giant Moon returned $29.40 to win. Im so happy for (owner) Mr. (Albert) Fried. Weve had all the patience in the world with this horse. This was a real team effort -- from the crew on the farm to the crew at Belmont. He had a phenomenal winter, healed up so nicely. The main thing is his feet right now look like the way when God put them on originally. Last year, after the Preakness, his feet got away from him. It was a great comeback. It was his third race off a layoff and he figured to move forward. Hes not an easy horse to ride because he has a tendency to back off the <b>...</b>

Keywords

nyra, horse, racing, aqueduct, excelsior, giant, moon

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