TDN RISING STARS

August 13, 2008 - Saratoga, Race 2, Msw, USD $62,000, 5 1/2f

Capt. Candyman Can, G, 2, 2006 by Candy Ride (Arg)

1st Dam: Stormy Way (SW, $278,083), by Storm Creek
2nd Dam: Sabal Way, by Proud Appeal
3rd Dam: Virgin Reef, by Unconscious

Owner: Joseph Rauch & David Zell
Breeder: Lantern Hill Farm LLC, Joseph Rauch & David Zell (KY)
Trainer: Ian R Wilkes

A $25,000 KEESEP yearling, Capt. Candyman Can was given little credence at 19-1, but made the doubters pay with a smart late run. Looking to become the seventh winner for his freshman sire (by Ride the Rails), the gelding was outhoofed in the early going under jockey Julien Leparoux as Grizzly Peak (Tale of the Cat) battled with 7-5 choice Celestial Diamond (Malibu Moon) through :21 2/5 and :45 splits. Capt. Candyman Can began to close on the front rank nearing the quarter pole, forged to the lead in mid-stretch and strode clear with authority to take it by 7 1/4 lengths. Grizzly Peak ran on well and was clearly second best, five lengths in front of show horse Mesa Sunrise (Sky Mesa). The chalk faded to fifth. Lifetime Record: 1-1-0-0, $37,200.