TDN RISING STARS

January 9, 2013 - Gulfstream Park, Race 5, , USD $54,500, 1m, NW1X

Tapicat, f, 3, 2010 by Tapit

1st Dam: Zealous Cat, by Storm Cat
2nd Dam: Trail Robbery, by Alydar
3rd Dam: Track Robbery, by No Robbery

Owner: Besilu Stables LLC
Breeder: Winchell Thoroughbreds LLC & Gainesway Thoroughbreds (KY)
Trainer: William I Mott

A $725,000 KEESEP yearling acquisition, Tapicat debuted as the favorite in a six-furlong test over the Belmont main track Oct. 28 and gave a solid accounting of herself, finishing third. The long-barreled chestnut found herself on a van bound for South Florida soon after and recorded a four-furlong bullet at Payson Park just 16 days after her bow. She was made the 7-5 chalk for her first route and turf try Dec. 2 and was nursed along on a soft pace by Joel Rosario before holding sway late by 3/4 of a length despite racing greenly. The Besilu runner dominated the market in this first go against winners and touched even money before settling at 8-5 at the off. Ridden away from the gate, Tapicat led into the turn and was at the head of affairs following an opening quarter-mile in :23.20. She got the half in :46.66, and Rosario asked her to quicken just a bit rounding the turn. She instantly had three lengths on her rivals, entered the final furlong a half-dozen clear and stayed on well despite trying to get in badly in the latter stages. Zealous Cat was an $875,000 2-year-old purchase and her dam, Trail Robbery (Alydar), is a full sister to the dam of GI Breeders' Cup Classic winner Cat Thief (Storm Cat). Lifetime Record: 3-2-0-1, $58,100.