Successful sire Tale Of The Cat’s progeny are continuing to find success in the United States, with Overdriven easily winning the Group 2 Sanford Stakes at Saratoga last weekend.
The talented youngster beat his classy opposition by an incredible four lengths in what was just his second start.
Overdriven is the 75th stakes winner for Tale Of The Cat, who stands at stud in Australia during the southern hemisphere’s breeding season.
Trainer Todd Pletcher was confident of Overdriven’s chances prior to the race.
“We felt like we had the best horse going in, but when you’re in situations like this, everyone knows what can happen in Saratoga and the history of upsets, so you don’t take anything for granted,” Pletcher said.
“I’m just happy he broke cleanly and put himself in a good spot.
“(Jockey) Johnny (Velazquez) said he idled a little bit, kind of waiting on horses when he made the lead, but it was a very professional performance.”
Owner Mike Repole purchased Overdriven for $350,000 at the Keeneland September Yearling Sale.
Another one of Repole’s purchases, Uncle Mo, won the same Sanford Stakes last year, however, the owner refuses to make comparisons.
“Pretty nice horse last year, and pretty nice horse so far this year,” Repole said.
“There’s only one Uncle Mo and there’s one Overdriven.
“It feels good to get the first graded stakes win at Saratoga.
“Great win, great win, great win. Great weekend. This is the race I wanted to win. I’m pretty happy right now.
“Last year, Uncle Mo was the best 2-year-old in the country and as of July 24, Overdriven is the best 2-year-old in the country.”
Overdriven is now expected to head to the Group 1 Hopeful Stakes at Saratoga on September 5.
