Manny Franco topped the standings at Aqueduct suring the fall and winter meets and made it a clean sweep in Ozone Park when winning the spring meet title Saturday. Rudy Rodriguez topped all trainers to win his ninth Aqueduct title, while Repole Stable, Drawing Away Stable and Klaravich Stable tied for leading owner with four wins each.
Franco, who won 98 races during the winter meet, captured 18 during this short meet, which began Apr. 6. He was in the money with 65.48% of his mounts this meet, including piloting World of Trouble (Kantharos) to a win in the GI Carter H.
“It means a lot because it shows that you are doing something right if it's happening to you,” Franco said. “I just try to keep my mind focused and ride the horses and don't try to change. I'm comfortable here. I've gotten good opportunities here. I'm excited for the Belmont meet and I'll try and keep doing what I've been doing and keep going.”
Rodriguez had nine winners from 44 starters this meet. He has won four fall meets and three winter meets at Aqueduct, but this was his first spring title.
“I have to thank all the people in my barn; my brother, the assistants, the hotwalkers and grooms, everyone,” Rodriguez said. “They are all very good workers. To win the title is exciting and we'll celebrate together, and hopefully we can keep doing it.”
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