I Am Fred dominates Supreme Ventures Anniversary Trophy feature
...trainer Jason DaCosta, owner Milad Azan elated with impressive victory
Trainer Jason DaCosta was overjoyed with I Am Fred’s stunning performance in the Supreme Ventures Limited 23rd Anniversary Trophy on Saturday, June 22, 2024, but even he didn’t anticipate the magnitude of his charge’s victory.
The six-year-old American-bred bay colt
I Am Fred led from start to finish, winning the Graded Stakes/Open Allowance contest over 5 ½ furlongs by an impressive eight and a half lengths in a time of 1:05.2 (23.3 x 47.0 x 59.0).
DaCosta admitted that he had expected a good run from I Am Fred in the three-year-old and upward race but not one of this calibre.
“The performance was surprising from I Am Fred. I expected him to run well, but not this well. I think this is the best he has ever run,” DaCosta said.
“The plan going into the race was to get a good break; I thought that
Mahogany would have gone to the lead, but we ended up in front, and it worked out great. I Am Fred went to the lead and never looked back.
“Coming off a layoff, he is fresh and feeling good right now, so he is on top of his game. We will pick his spots and see where he goes from here,” the champion conditioner shared.
I Am Fred, ridden by champion rider Reyan Lewis, who replaced Robert Halledeen, was propelled into the lead ahead of Joy Is Golden (Jerome Innis) and Sensational Move (Aaron Chatrie). I Am Fred kept his lead well into the half-mile, and as the distance approached, he extended the advantage.
With no real rivals emerging in the deep stretch, I Am Fred continued to layout powerfully and glided home comfortably. Stablemate Is That A Fact (Josue Osorio) finished second, while Mahogany (Raddesh Roman) came in third.
Owner Milad Azan was also thrilled with the victory from I Am Fred (Golden Lad – Happy Hailey).
“I think it was an excellent race; the jockey rode a fantastic race; and the horse was in immaculate condition,” Azan told the Supreme Racing Guide.
“I am so pleased with the outcome of this race, and we have a lot more to come. Thanks to my trainer, who is unbelievable. This horse is capable of doing anything; he can stay and he can sprint,” he added.