Tight Photo Finish in Appealing LA Challenge

The 7 furlong Appealing LA Challenge ended up to be much closer than the betting public ever thought it would be. The field was as small as they come with only four entrants. Orogeny was the heavily favored betting choice, going off at 1-5, making it look like an easy romp for her.

As the race started, Die for Gold went for the quick early lead along the rail. Frigate, the second choice at 9-5, was content to settle in to the second spot, nicely tucked in along the rail. Orogeny moved along and was able to follow that cover. The 70-1 computer entry Mesa Boogie dropped back into forth.

The field was content to stay that way throughout the race, with Die for Gold eventually opening up a two length lead. Mesa Boogie quickly dropped out of contention as the field passed the 3/4 pole.

As the field made their journey down the stretch, jockey Denney put the whip to Die for Gold as Orogeny and Frigate came off the rail and made their surge. In deep stretch, it was anyone’s race as all three were spread across the stretch. They all hit the wire at the same time, requiring the track stewards to spend seveal minutes examining the photo.

In the end, Orogeny (my top pick) was ruled the winner by a mere nose paying $2.70 for the win. Frigate, my second choice, was ruled to be second by the judges resulting in a $3.50 exacta. Die for Gold, my third selection, almost upset this field at 6-1 came up just short ending in the show position, and a sad trifecta payout of $3.70.