TORONTO, October 9, 2018 – Each week, track announcer Robert Geller comments on some of the performances that caught his eye, highlighting horses to key in on for upcoming races at Woodbine. HASTALAVISTABABY (September 28 – Race 6, No. 11, 1st) After two short sprints on Tapeta, Hastalivistababy found her niche next out when going long for the first time on turf at a mile. Just as daunting as the widening margin of 5-1/4 lengths in her maiden special weight success was the manner in which she unfurled from mid-pack to make short work of the opposition down the stretch. The filly had put the writing on the wall with her late close in her second start but managed to put it all together on the surface switch at the route distance. By Drosselmeyer from a Sadler’s Well dam, Hastalivistababy is bred to handle both surfaces. Given her recent affinity for going long on turf, trainer Andrew Smith could easily end up with a repeat winner if those two conditions are met. SELF INFLICTED (October 5 – Race 6, No. 2, 2nd) Just how much of the first-time jitters with this newcomer were self-inflicted is hard to say. The Kentucky-bred three-year-old struggled to hold position up the back-stretch dropping from mid-pack to a distinct last going into the turn. To his credit, Self Inflicted redeemed himself in the stretch, producing a long-sustained run to finish 1-3/4 lengths from the winner Truly Elite and nab Stash the Cash at the wire for place. Sent off at 14-1 odds, Self Inflicted caught the eye with his closing kick suggesting the distance of 1-1/16 miles at the first time of asking suits him. By Musketeer from an A. P. Indy dam, Self Inflicted, bred by Calumet Farm, debuted for a $40,000 claiming tag and looks competitive next out at that same level. Honourable Mentions: TAHANA (October 5 – Race 5, No. 6, 2nd) Came up short when 2nd over six furlongs to previously raced favourite Integrious after hopping the start, closing solidly from last position. MAD SLAM (October 6, Race 5, No. 4, 3rd) Darted through the pack from seventh on turn for home with a late-charging 3rd at five furlongs for Chiefswood Stable and should take great benefit from the experience. Follow Geller on Twitter @WoodbineGeller for more insights on racing at Woodbine. Share This:Share
