TDN RISING STARS

July 11, 2014 - Belmont Park, Race 4, Msw, USD $75,000, 6f

Granny's Kitten, c, 2, 2012 by Kitten's Joy

1st Dam: Granny Franny, by Grand Slam
2nd Dam: Franziska (Ire), by Sadler's Wells
3rd Dam: Belle Epoque (Ire), by Habitat

Owner: Ken & Sarah Ramsey
Breeder: Ken & Sarah Ramsey (PA)
Trainer: Mike Maker

Let go at 7-2, Granny's Kitten kept tabs on the leaders from third through speedy early splits of :22.20 and :45.20. Running three-wide in the lane, the bay instantly powered clear of his rivals when given the cue by pilot Irad Ortiz Jr. and sailed home a 4 1/4-length winner. Reality (Super Saver) was the runner-up and his stable-mate Escondido (Eskendereya) was fifth. The winner is a full brother to last year's
GI Queen Elizabeth II Challenge Cup S. winner Kitten's Dumplings, GISW, $691,262; and P.G. Johnson S. heroine Granny Mc's Kitten, SW, $103,946. Claimed by the Ramsey's for $40,000 in 2007, their dam Granny Franny did not have a foal last year, but produced a full-brother to the talented trio this term. Lifetime Record: 1-1-0-0, $45,000.