NY Horse Racing

RISES THE PHOENIX EMERGES WITH WADSWORTH VICTORY

7.04.2008 - Wins vigorous stretch duel to take Independence Day Stake

Contact: David Mattice
Publicity Dept.
585-924-3232 x234
NEWS RELEASE


FARMINGTON, N.Y. – Oakwood Stable’s Rises the Phoenix outfinished Brocco Valley in a spirited stretch duel to score a nose victory in the 32nd renewal of the $50,000 Wadsworth Memorial Handicap at Finger Lakes Gaming and Racetrack on Friday. The 7-year-old New York-bred’s final time of 1:50.86 was the third fastest in the history of the one mile and one-eighth route for 3-year-olds and upward.

It was the fourth win in the last five starts for the Daniel Conway, Jr.-trainee who now has a total of $290,534 in career purse earnings.

"He’s really blossomed", said Conway. "He’s a good horse who’s on a roll right now".

Jockey Nazario Alvarado notched his second career stakes win in the Continental United States aboard Rises the Phoenix. He was able to save ground on the inside throughout the race before challenging Brocco Valley. He stayed inside of that rival and won the battle to the wire.

"The rail was open and I had to go through", said Alvarado. "He then finished real good".

Rises the Phoenix was an outsider in the race despite his recent success and paid $18.60, $7.30 and $4.60. Brocco Valley was brave in defeat and returned $4.60 and $4.30. Tommasi rallied to be third and paid $5.10.

The next two stakes races at Finger Lakes Gaming and Racetrack will both be run on Saturday, July 12. The $150,000 New York Derby and the $50,000 Niagara Stakes will take place that day.