Can a New York-bred win the Kentucky Derby? That’s a prospect trainer Gary Contessa can afford to dream about after his steel-gray 3-year-old colt Grey Comet remained undefeated in four starts with a courageous, gate-to-wire victory in yesterday’s $75,000 Count Fleet Stakes at the Big A, New York’s first Triple Crown prep.
Off as the 3-5 favorite, Grey Comet gunned right to the front and controlled the pace (:23.2, :47.1) while saving ground under jockey Aaron Gryder, shadowed by Mustang Jock to his outside. Those two dueled as a team from the top of the stretch home, with Grey Comet gradually pulling away at the wire to score by a length, running the mile and 70 yards in a quick 1:42 over the muddy track. Penobscot Bay finished third, another four lengths back in the field of six.
“I didn’t think it would be that close,” Contessa said. “I really didn’t want him to be on the lead, but he kind of inherited it. He’s a much better horse with speed to run at. He dug in and opened up. He showed them what he’s made of.”
Despite a pedigree (by Distinctive Pro) that leans more to speed than stamina, Grey Comet came bouncing back to the winner’s circle full of energy, suggesting it won’t be a problem as he stretches out more in distance.
“This was his first start against open company, so hope springs eternal,” said Contessa. “He seems to rise to whatever level of competition you throw at him. We’ll point him to the Whirlaway [a mile-and-a-sixteenth at Aqueduct on Feb. 8].”
Grey Comet paid $3.40, topping an $18.40 exacta.