TDN RISING STARS

August 20, 2023 - Ellis Park, Race 7, Msw, USD $70,000, 5F, .0000

Alder, C, 2, 2021 by Hard Spun

1st Dam: Arbol, by Elusive Quality
2nd Dam: Forest Heiress, by Forest Wildcat
3rd Dam: Penniless Heiress, by Pentelicus

Owner: Godolphin (KY)
Breeder: Godolphin (KY)
Trainer: Brad Cox

Alder (Hard Spun)'s first trip to the gate July 15 at Ellis Park resulted in him being declared a non-starter after he became tangled and unseated Gerardo Corrales just as the bell sounded. With Corrales back aboard, no such issues plagued this 2-year-old colt as he sparkled down the lane to win on debut at Ellis Park on Sunday afternoon. The bold effort earned him 'TDN Rising Star' honors.

Off at 9-5 here, the Godolphin homebred settled midpack up the backstretch as a trio vied for the lead into the far turn. Taking aim at that bunch, Alder took the overland route with a sweeping four-wide move before the quarter pole, shifted to another gear running down the lane and won impressively by 6 1/4 lengths over fellow firster Honky Tonk Highway (City of Light).

The winner's dam foaled a colt by Street Boss Mar. 2 and she was bred to Mystic Guide for 2024. Second dam Forest Heiress (Forest Wildcat) is a multiple Grade III winner and counts GI Frank J. DeFrancis Memorial Dash S. hero Wildcat Heir as a full-brother. This is Hard Spun's 13th 'TDN Rising Star'.