Damon’s Mound Shines at Churchill Downs, Emerging as a Promising 2-year-old
At Churchill Downs on Saturday, Damon’s Mound, a remarkable 2-year-old, made a captivating debut. He dominated a maiden special weight race on the Stephen Foster undercard, winning by an impressive 12 ½ lengths. The race showcased his undeniable talent and potential.
A Stellar Performance
Damon’s Mound showcased his speed and ability by effortlessly dismantling the six-furlong maiden special weight race in just 1:09.84. This debut victory was accompanied by an outstanding 96 Equibase Speed Figure. To put this in perspective, Gulfport, another recent standout 2-year-old, registered the same figure with a seven-length win. Gulfport is currently the favored contender for the Listed Bashford Manor Stakes at Churchill Downs.
An Early Revelation
Trainer Michelle Lovell had an inkling of Damon’s Mound’s exceptional talent. Five weeks prior to his debut, she contacted Churchill Downs and expressed her confidence in this precocious juvenile under her care. Lovell emphasized the professionalism and class displayed by Damon’s Mound, affirming that he had the potential to become something truly special.
Her belief in the colt was further strengthened after witnessing his impressive workouts. Damon’s Mound’s first standout workout occurred on April 23, covering three furlongs in 37 seconds, ranking ninth out of 21 horses. Subsequently, on May 12, he completed four furlongs in 47.80 seconds, placing fourth among 37 contenders. His most recent work, a four-furlong breeze from the gate in 47.60, showcased his speed and professionalism, ranking eighth out of an impressive 125 horses.
Lovell couldn’t contain her admiration for Damon’s Mound, stating, “He’s such an amazing horse and has such a great presence for one at this stage of his career. He’s always done things so professionally in the mornings when he trains, and he really showed his potential early on.”
A Star in the Making
Damon’s Mound, a Florida homebred, is owned by Cliff and Michele Love. The talented colt is the offspring of Girvin, a renowned racehorse who triumphed in the 2017 Haskell, Louisiana Derby, and Risen Star. Damon’s Mound’s dam is San Antonio Stroll, a Stroll mare.
From Humble Beginnings to Promising Prospects
Michelle Lovell, a former jockey turned trainer, has made remarkable strides in her career. Despite facing challenges, her dedication and hard work are paying off. Lovell’s training accomplishments include producing multiple stakes winners such as Change of Control and Just Might.
Change of Control, a nine-time winner, recently finished fourth in the prestigious Grade 1 Jaipur Stakes on the Belmont Stakes undercard. With total earnings amounting to $833,725, she has had an outstanding career, especially considering her humble origins as a one-time $50,000 claimer.
Similarly, Just Might, a 6-year-old gelding, has made his mark in the racing world. With total career earnings of $958,100 and 11 victories to his name, he exemplifies Lovell’s dedication to nurturing successful racehorses. Notably, Just Might secured a win in the Mighty Beau Overnight Stakes at Churchill Downs on June 11.
A Bright Future Awaits Damon’s Mound
Following his momentous debut, Damon’s Mound and the rest of Michelle Lovell’s stable will be competing at Colonial Downs during the summer season. Lovell is beyond thrilled with the colt’s potential, noting, “The sky is the limit for this colt. I’m so relieved we got yesterday’s win out of the way, but he could be very, very special. It’s also very gratifying to his owners because they have been in the game for such a long time. They deserve a homebred with his type of potential.”
Conclusion
Damon’s Mound’s stunning performance at Churchill Downs has firmly established him as a rising star in the world of horse racing. His dominant victory and impressive Equibase Speed Figure make him a force to be reckoned with. Trainer Michelle Lovell’s belief in his potential has been validated, and she eagerly awaits his future endeavors at Colonial Downs. Damon’s Mound’s owners, Cliff and Michele Love, can look forward to the prospect of their homebred colt achieving great success in the racing world.
FAQs
1. How did Damon’s Mound perform in his debut race?
Damon’s Mound won his debut race at Churchill Downs with an astonishing 12 ½ length victory, showcasing his exceptional talent and potential.
2. What is the significance of Damon’s Mound’s Equibase Speed Figure?
Damon’s Mound registered an impressive 96 Equibase Speed Figure, indicating his remarkable speed and performance comparable to other standout 2-year-olds.
3. Who are the owners of Damon’s Mound?
Damon’s Mound is owned by Cliff and Michele Love, who are proud breeders and owners of this promising colt.
4. What other successes has trainer Michelle Lovell achieved?
Michelle Lovell, a former jockey turned trainer, has trained multiple stakes winners, including Change of Control and Just Might. Both horses have had notable careers.
5. Where will Damon’s Mound be competing next?
Damon’s Mound and the rest of Michelle Lovell’s stable will be competing at Colonial Downs during the summer season, offering exciting prospects for the talented colt.
