A determined late surge carried Uncle Dodo to his first career victory as the promising two-year-old narrowly defeated Titan Ready in the $125,000 Victoria Stakes at Woodbine on Sunday. In a race that developed into a thrilling duel over the closing stages, the Barbara Minshall-trained colt displayed grit and maturity to prevail in a photo finish after an energetic 5½-furlong contest.
Uncle Dodo Victoria Stakes
Ridden confidently by Romero Maragh, Uncle Dodo broke well from stall five before settling in fourth as Titan Ready and Hesatrooper set a brisk early pace through an opening quarter-mile in 22.50 seconds.
Approaching the bend, Titan Ready moved clear of Hesatrooper while the lone filly in the field, Klassen, advanced strongly along the inside before switching out to challenge for the lead. At the same time, Uncle Dodo began to improve three wide, travelling smoothly into contention.
The leading trio straightened for home almost level after a half-mile split of 45.88 seconds, setting up an exciting finish. Inside the final furlong, Klassen’s challenge began to weaken, leaving Uncle Dodo and Titan Ready to battle stride for stride to the winning post.
Uncle Dodo found just enough in the closing yards to edge past the gallant Titan Ready in a close photo finish, stopping the clock in 1:04.98 and securing his maiden victory in stakes company.
The victory marked another notable success for trainer Barbara Minshall, whose colt had hinted at significant ability on debut at Woodbine in June. After missing the break slightly in a maiden special weight, Uncle Dodo finished strongly from off the pace to claim third, suggesting a breakthrough performance was close.
Making only his second career start, the son of Uncle Mo showed greater professionalism from the gates before producing a sustained finishing run when it mattered most. Out of the accomplished mare Dream It Is, Uncle Dodo demonstrated the same determination that characterised his dam’s racing career.
Bred in Kentucky by Hoolie Racing Stable LLC, the bay colt improved his record to one win and one third from two starts, underlining his promise as one of Woodbine’s emerging juvenile performers.
Titan Ready finished a courageous second after setting much of the pace, while Klassen held on for third. First-time starter Merckx completed the first four home.
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