Crudo made a powerful statement at Pimlico Race Course on Saturday with a dominant victory in the $100,000 Sir Barton Stakes, part of the electrifying undercard on Preakness Day. The talented 3-year-old colt, owned by Bobby Flay Thoroughbreds and James Ventura, delivered a front-running masterclass in just his third career start, crossing the wire a decisive 7 ½ lengths ahead of the competition.
Guided confidently by Hall of Fame rider John Velazquez and trained by fellow Hall of Famer Todd Pletcher, Crudo maintained an early lead and never looked back. Breaking sharply from the inside post, he set a steady tempo before surging away from the field at the top of the stretch. The final time for the 1 1/16-mile contest was 1:44 over a fast track.
This performance marked the second consecutive win for the son of 2018 Triple Crown champion Justify, who had previously dominated a maiden race at Keeneland by a similar margin. Unraced at two, Crudo appears to be developing rapidly, showing the class and composure of a seasoned performer despite his relative inexperience.
Among his rivals, Just a Fair Shake closed late to secure the runner-up spot, finishing comfortably ahead of Invictus in third. Other contenders, including Bestfriend Rocket and Bear Claw Necklace, struggled to match Crudo’s pace and power down the stretch. Two horses, Mr. Bogan and Hymn, were late scratches.
The Sir Barton Stakes, named after the sport’s first Triple Crown winner from 1919, has long served as a key stepping stone for promising 3-year-olds on the rise. Crudo’s convincing score suggests he may have a bright future at higher levels, and his performance was a highlight on a day that celebrated 150 years of the historic Preakness Stakes.
Velazquez and Pletcher’s combined experience and success at Pimlico added another chapter to their decorated resumes, with past victories in this very race further underlining their enduring prowess. Crudo’s triumph not only reinforced his own potential but also underscored the continued success of the Justify bloodline in major American racing.
As fans look ahead to future stakes assignments, Crudo’s name will surely be one to watch. With his pedigree, connections, and now a commanding stakes win under his belt, he could be poised for even greater accomplishments in the months to come.
