Tiz Tok outclasses rivals in ‘Lindy’ Delapenha Memorial face-off
Tiz Tok, a five-year-old American-bred bay horse, made a stunning impression on Sunday, effortlessly winning the $1.25-million Lloyd Lindbergh “Lindy” Delapenha Memorial Trophy by 6 ¼ lengths. The impressive victory marked his first win on local soil in just two starts.
Trained by Anthony Nunes and ridden by Shane Ellis, Tiz Tok dominated the one-mile (1,600m) Non-Restricted Overnight Allowance contest, finishing ahead of fellow American-bred Divine Force (Tajay Suckoo) and D Head Cornerstone (Dane Dawkins). With splits of 24.1 x 46.4 x 1:12.4 x 1:25.3, Tiz Tok’s final time was recorded at 1:39.0.
The race began with Tiz Tok breaking off well at the start alongside Kem, ridden by Garvin Harries. However, Ellis strategically held his mount back, allowing Geolithic (Jaheim Anderson), James (Romane Gordon), and Divine Force to take the lead as they raced down the backstretch.
In an awesome display of speed and agility, Tiz Tok made a swift move, surrounding his rivals as he navigated the half-mile (800m) turn. From there, he continued to open up his lead, ultimately securing a decisive victory.
It was the second winner on the day for Ellis as he earlier booted home Musketoon for trainer Paul Hylton in the sixth race. No trainer had more than one winner on the nine-race card.
Racing is to continue on Saturday.