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White Abarrio Gives Trainer Rick Dutrow a Whitney Win

Thanks, babe.

Rick Dutrow, Jr. is back in the winner’s circle in a big way.

With his signature “Thanks, babe,’’ following an interview after the trainer sent out White Abarrio to an upset of Cody’s Wish in the $1 million Whitney (G1) at Saratoga on Saturday, Dutrow is ready for an extra special birthday celebration.

Dutrow, who was suspended for 10 years – 10 years! — by the New York Racing and Wagering Board for numerous rules violations, recently regained his license after serving his entire suspension.

Winning the Whitney, one of the most prestigious races in New York, if not the country, is probably the best way to mark his 64th birthday.

“It’s the best present I’ve ever had for my birthday,'” Dutrow said. “I am happy, very happy.”

White Abarrio ($22.40), formerly trained by Saffie Joseph, Jr. but recently transferred to Dutrow, took command around the final turn and romped to a 6 ¼-length victory over Zandon , with 2-5 favorite Cody’s Wish third.

Melanie Giddings hugs Maple Leaf Mel’s groom- Photo credit Skip Dickstein

The 4-year-old White Abarrio was moved to Dutrow’s barn prior to the Metropolitan Handicap, where he finished third. Under Joseph, White Abarrio won five of 12 starts, including the 2022 Florida Derby (G1).

Tragedy in the Test

Two races earlier, in the $500,000 Test Stakes (G1), Maple Leaf Mel sustained a catastrophic injury a few strides before the finish line and was euthanized on the track due to a severely injured front right leg.

Pretty Mischievous ($5.70) won the race, with Clearly Unhinged second, and Munnys Gold third. Maple Leaf Mel, a New York bred trained by Melanie Giddings, came into the race with a 5-0 record.

Saratoga Derby goes to Program Training

In another Grade 1 at the Spa, Program Training ($9.20) went gate-to-wire and edged Webslinger by a head in the $600,000 Saratoga Derby Invitational. Trained by Chad Brown, the 3-year-old ridgling was ridden by Flavien Prat.

Winning time for the 1 3/16 miles on the turf was 1:56.63

 

 

 

 

 

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