He’s No Dud

Inappropriately named Another Dud made a total mockery of that name with a barnstorming victory in the Chem Lawn Stakes in California this week. After giving away a lead of more than ten lengths mid race, Another Dud flew from the clouds, winding in Machs Band, who had looked to have established a winning lead, and going on to convincing take the race. In winning the quarter of a million dollar Grade 2 challenge, Another Dud won for trainer Jkj4 his first, but almost certainly not his last, Graded trophy, while extending his winning run to three.

Against A Tyrant jumped brilliantly from his wide gate, crossed to the rai with ease and led clearly. Mach’s Band was content to hold the rail in second and comfortably adopted his favored running position. L Bundy sat outside him while Septic Squall had begun well but was caught three deep. Raging Menace found the rail in the third line, ahead of and inside Irish Mandolin. Chromium settled next with the favorite King of Indy alongside. Towards the rear came VVVV, Flower Account, Galilainey and the eventual victor, Another Dud.

For half a mile jockeys were content to retain their relative positions, until the bend when the race began to get serious. Against A Tryant had set up a four length break, but had he worked too hard to do it? Challengers were beginning to emerge. Mach’s Band had enjoyed a lovely run behind the leader and was beginning to close the gap. Septic Squall had overtaken L Bundy, who had had enough and Raging Menace was also making his presence felt. From nowhere Another Dud was taking giant strides.

Into the stretch and Against A Tyrant had thrown in the towel. Mach’s Band had been ridden a treat and had worn down the leader, but it was Another Dud flying down the outside with all the momentum. Mach’s Band was trying gallantly to reach the wire first, but with just yards to go Another Dud collared him and such was his finishing burst, that the winning margin was a comfortable half length. Mach’s Band looked likely to hold on for much of last two furlongs and lost no respect in defeat.

Septic Squall ran an even race for third, beaten four lengths.

Raging Menace worked home solidly to take fourth.

Against A Tyrant took home the last cheque, after providing an exciting spectacle.

Galilainey made late ground without ever looking a threat.

VVVV raced beyond midfield throughout.

Irish Mandolin and Chromium gave up early ground, finishing side by side.

King of Indy was a huge disappointment, giving his supporters no joy.

L Bundy enjoyed a nice run, but faded badly.

Flower Account was outclassed.

Another Dud is a three year old Scratchbred son of Shirocco / Secretariat / Deputy Minister. This was his fifth win from ten starts and lifts his earnings above $350,000. He ran the nine furlongs in 1.4808 and returned a speed rating of 101. Previous rated # 52 in his division, this win elevates him to # 16.

Jkj4 is a member of the 31 barn “Rockriver Stables”, active supporters of Great Plains Residency and Minnesota Downs. Another Dud clearly leads the earnings table for the barn, which contains nine runners aged from two to five.