Trainer George Weaver secured a familiar prize at Gulfstream Park on Saturday when Sandal’s Song stormed from behind to claim victory in the $100,000 Royal Palm Juvenile. The colt’s impressive debut not only handed Weaver another key 2-year-old stakes win but also earned a coveted ticket to Royal Ascot, where he’s enjoyed prior success.
Running over five furlongs on turf, Sandal’s Song delivered a stirring performance that defied his 7-1 odds. Breaking from the rail in a field of eight, the son of Mendelssohn got away last but quickly made up ground under a well-judged ride by Luca Panici. The pair stayed tucked behind early speed before unleashing a wide rally around the far turn. The frontrunner Squire, the even-money favorite and stablemate to earlier filly winner Lennilu, attempted to dig in at the top of the stretch, but Sandal’s Song had too much momentum and surged past to score by a length and a half.
For Weaver, this win was especially meaningful. Just a year ago, he swept both Royal Palm Juvenile features and parlayed one of those victories into a Royal Ascot triumph. Now, with Sandal’s Song showing early talent and potential, the trainer is eyeing a return across the Atlantic with confidence. Weaver noted that while the colt hadn’t worked on turf, his pedigree suggested he would handle it well, and Panici’s early feedback during training solidified those expectations.
The final time for the sprint was a sharp 56.30 seconds on a firm course. Squire finished second, well ahead of Arkadelphia, who rounded out the trifecta. Panici, reflecting on the win, praised the colt’s ability and attitude, expressing strong belief in his future development.
Weaver’s day wasn’t without challenge, though. His filly, Royal Testament, ran in the companion Royal Palm Juvenile Fillies but struggled from a tough inside draw and finished sixth. Nonetheless, the trainer remained upbeat, citing Sandal’s Song’s ability to overcome a similar post as proof of the colt’s class and race sense.
Looking ahead to Sunday’s action at Gulfstream, bettors have their eyes on the Rainbow 6, where the jackpot pool is projected to reach $125,000. The sequence will feature six races, culminating in the $70,000 Mo Green, a one-mile test for fillies and mares. Claret Beret, a new addition to Saffie Joseph Jr.’s barn, is pegged as the morning-line favorite after showing promise earlier in her career. She’ll be challenged by Princess Indy, also making her stable debut for Joseph.
The Rainbow 6 continues to attract attention due to its jackpot payout format. Unless a single winning ticket covers all six winners, the pot rolls over. A percentage is still distributed among players with the most correct picks, keeping engagement high even on non-payout days.
This vibrant mix of juvenile talent, international aspirations, and high-stakes wagering underscores the dynamic atmosphere Gulfstream Park continues to deliver—both on the track and in the betting pools.
