TDN RISING STARS

June 22, 2008 - Arlington Park, Race 6, Msw, USD $28,000, 4 1/2f

Desert Party, c, 2, 2006 by Street Cry (Ire)

1st Dam: Sage Cat, by Tabasco Cat
2nd Dam: Lady Sage, by Lord Gaylord
3rd Dam: Foxcroft Finale, by Real Value

Owner: Darley Stable
Breeder: D Smith & S Sinatra (KY)
Trainer: Eoin Harty

Desert Party, who brought $2.1 million to top the 2008 FTFFEB sale, looked well worth the price in his career debut. Sent off the 8-5 favorite, the bay broke from post 11 and was caught wide on the short run into the first turn. Settled just off pace down the backstretch, he collared the leaders from the outside on the turn as jockey Rene Douglas took a look over his shoulder and cruised home for a 3 3/4-length score over Willsgray (El Corredor). Also a $425,000 KEESEP yearling purchase, the colt is a half to Elliecat (Crafty Prospector), SW, $190,646. Lifetime Record: 1-1-0-0, $16,800.