Florida-bred Tripski made it two victories in-a-row at Calder Casino and Race Course as the 5-year-old gelding won the $55,000 Eillo Stakes over five furlongs Saturday afternoon. Owned by Shadybrook Farm of Morriston, Fla., and breeder William Lussky of Louisville, Ky., Tripski came into the Eillo off of a victory over $25,000 optional claimers at Calder Aug. 17 and used that race to come into the Eillo sharp.
Although keenly prepared for the Eillo by trainer Michael Yates, the fast pace in the Eillo would also be a key to Tripski’s first career stakes win. Ridden by Jose Rios, Tripski was reserved along the rail during the early going of the Eillo, laying back in fifth position after a fast quarter mile in :21.51 and a half in :43.94. At the top of the stretch Rios angled Tripski to the outside to make a run at pacesetter and Florida-bred Uno Caliente and Classic Brook. At the wire Tripski managed to stay in front by a half-length over Uno Caliente in second and Classic Brook in third.
Running time for the five furlongs on turf was :56.20.
Tripski returned $5.40 for a $2 win ticket, $2.80 to place and $2.40 to show. Uno Caliente paid $4.40 and $3.40 while Classic Brook returned $6.40 to those who supported him with show bets. It was the sixth career win for Tripski from 17 career starts and he now has a lifetime bankroll of $164,402.
Photo by Coady
