Tiz the Bomb to Begin Turf Career with Belmont Derby Invitational
Trainer Kenny McPeek has officially announced that Tiz the Bomb, a versatile colt, will be transitioning to turf racing. The Grade 1 $1 million Belmont Derby Invitational will mark Tiz the Bomb’s debut on grass.
Tiz the Bomb’s most recent race on a synthetic surface was a victory in the April Jeff Ruby Steaks at Turfway Park. The colt will now return to his preferred turf surface for the upcoming Grade 1 Belmont Derby Invitational, which is a 1 1/4-mile race taking place at Belmont Park on July 9.
This race serves as the first leg of the New York Racing Association’s Turf Triple Series for 3-year-olds. The series continues with the Grade 1 Saratoga Derby, a 1 3/16-mile turf race scheduled for August 6, and concludes with the Jockey Club Derby, a $1 million, 1 1/2-mile turf race held at Belmont Park in September.
From Dirt to Grass: Tiz the Bomb’s Journey
Tiz the Bomb’s most recent appearance was in the Kentucky Derby last month, where he finished in ninth place, 12 1/2 lengths behind the winner Rich Strike. This marked his return to dirt racing after a successful stint on synthetic surfaces. Despite his performance, trainer Kenny McPeek remains unfazed.
McPeek acknowledges that Tiz the Bomb needed a clean break and better positioning in the Derby, but he believes the colt did not disgrace himself. Reflecting on Tiz the Bomb’s journey, McPeek states, “It could have gone better, but we gave him his chance, which he deserved.”
Tiz the Bomb’s Mastery on Different Surfaces
Before venturing into the world of dirt racing, Tiz the Bomb exhibited his versatility by conquering various surfaces. He started his career with a maiden victory in an off-the-turf race at Ellis Park in July. Following that, he secured back-to-back turf stakes wins in the Kentucky Downs Juvenile Mile and the Grade 2 Bourbon. Tiz the Bomb’s turf prowess continued with a runner-up position to Modern Games in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf at Del Mar.
The Grade 3 Holy Bull at Gulfstream Park marked Tiz the Bomb’s first race as a 3-year-old, but it was not without its challenges. The colt finished seventh in a race marred by difficulties. However, McPeek always had his sights set on the grass, as he believed it to be Tiz the Bomb’s true calling. It is on the turf where Tiz the Bomb will continue to increase his impressive earnings.
A Millionaire in the Making: Tiz the Bomb’s Success
With earnings totaling over $1 million, Tiz the Bomb has established himself as a lucrative investment. Purchased for $300,000 at the 2020 Fasig-Tipton Selected Yearlings Showcase, the colt has accumulated five wins and a second-place finish in the Breeders’ Cup in his nine starts.
Trainer Kenny McPeek shares his belief that Tiz the Bomb excels on grass. He expresses his excitement for the upcoming races, stating, “These next couple of races are really good spots for him — great distances and surfaces.” The transition from dirt to turf opens up new possibilities for Tiz the Bomb to shine.
Conclusion
Tiz the Bomb’s transition to turf racing signals an exciting chapter in his career. Trainer Kenny McPeek’s decision to switch surfaces reflects his confidence in the colt’s abilities and his belief that Tiz the Bomb will flourish on grass. As Tiz the Bomb prepares for the Grade 1 Belmont Derby Invitational and the subsequent races in the Turf Triple Series, spectators eagerly anticipate the colt’s performances and the potential for further success.
FAQs
1. Will Tiz the Bomb continue to race on dirt in the future?
No, Tiz the Bomb’s trainer, Kenny McPeek, has stated that the colt’s preferred surface is turf. Hence, the focus will be on grass racing moving forward.
2. What are the upcoming races in the Turf Triple Series?
The Turf Triple Series consists of the Grade 1 Belmont Derby Invitational, the Grade 1 Saratoga Derby, and the Jockey Club Derby. These races offer 3-year-olds the opportunity to showcase their skills on turf at various distances.
3. Has Tiz the Bomb encountered success on turf prior to this transition?
Absolutely! Tiz the Bomb has displayed remarkable talent on turf, securing victories in the Kentucky Downs Juvenile Mile and the Grade 2 Bourbon. Additionally, he achieved a commendable runner-up position in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf.
4. How much money has Tiz the Bomb earned in his racing career?
Tiz the Bomb has generated earnings exceeding $1 million throughout his racing career. His consistent performances have made him a lucrative investment.
5. What makes Tiz the Bomb a promising contender in turf racing?
Tiz the Bomb possesses a versatile skill set that has been demonstrated across multiple surfaces. His successes on turf, combined with his natural ability, suggest that he has great potential to excel in the realm of turf racing.
