Happily Unbridled

Madeo, named for a popular Italian restaurant in Los Angeles, took the advantage of a rail-skimming run and finished just ahead of favorite Gio Ponti in the Del Mar Derby (gr II) on August 31. Gio Ponti, last seen winning the Virginia Derby, was forced to go five-wide and was closing on the winner only to lose by 1/2 length at the finish line. Pacesetter Tangled Tango was another 3/4 length back in third.

Ridden by Mike Smith, trained by John Shirreffs and owned by Jerry and Ann Moss, all of Giacomo fame, this son of Mizzen Mast has now won three times in seven starts since March 1 with this being his first stakes win

Madeo’s development was delayed by his nervousness and immaturity. Those days may be behind him as this was an impressive win. He completed the 1 1/8 mile on the firm turf in 1.46:48 and paid $23.60 to win. We likely won’t see a price like that in his next race.

Congratulations to the connections of Madeo and also of Gio Ponti who may have been the winner except for the bad luck of having a wide trip.

Go Baby Go!