TDN RISING STARS

March 15, 2013 - Gulfstream Park, Race 7, Msw, USD $52,500, 6f

Zaikov, F, 2013, by Distorted Humor

1st Dam: Wait a While (Ch. 3YO Filly, MGISW, $2,181,917), by Maria's Mon
2nd Dam: Flirtatious, by A.P. Indy
3rd Dam: Grand Charmer, by Lord Avie

Owner: Arindel Farm
Breeder: Arindel Farm (KY)
Trainer: Todd Pletcher

Zaikov, the first foal from multiple Grade I-winning grass specialist Wait a While, was given the ultimate test in preparation for this debut, working five furlongs at Palm Meadows Mar. 10 with champion 2-year-old colt Shanghai Bobby (Harlan’s Holiday). He appeared to pass that test, finishing in tandem with his stable mate in 1:02.40, and was sent off the 4-5 favorite in this field of well-bred maidens that included Brabbham (Bernardini), the $1.2-million FTSAUG sale topper and half-brother to Horse of the Year Havre de Grace (Saint Liam). Traveling in second early off the heels of Trinni Heart (Lion Heart), Zaikov swept past that rival when let loose midway around the turn. Jockey John Velazquez stole a confident look over his shoulder approaching the quarter pole and with that the race was over. Zaikov sprinted clear of the field at the top of the lane, crossing the wire 14 1/4 lengths clear of Trinni Heart, geared down. Brabbham traveled midpack throughout and checked in fifth. Wait a While is also the dam of 2-year-old filly Wait No More (Medaglia d’Oro), who topped last year’s FTSAUG yearling sale with a $1.575-million bid from Pletcher. Wait a While has no foal reported for 2012, and this year produced a colt by Smart Strike. Lifetime Record: 1-1-0-0, $25,200.