Feature Race | Auction | Breeding | General | Hall of Fame | Harness | Interviews | Mixed Breed | New Players | Racing | Site Updates | Steeplechasing | Steward's Cup | Triple Crown
Willamette Valley's Texas Triumph: Country State Of Mind
Original article written by Jack Ryder posted 5 months 3 weeks agoIn the heart of Texas at Odessa Park, the dust settled on a track that witnessed a thrilling spectacle of speed, strategy, and Texan-bred grit. The "Country State Of Mind" Stakes, sponsored by Craig Mcgee, unfolded over 400 yards of dusty terrain, showcasing the talents of colts and geldings aged 6 and up. With a hefty purse of $100,000 and a field restricted to Texas-breds, this stakes race became a stage for the Lone Star State's finest.
The Contenders:
Willamette Valley (TX)
Country William (TX)
Sofa King Fast (TX)
Smokestack Lightnin' (TX)
Race Dynamics:
Under the relentless Texan sun, the thunderous hooves of these seasoned competitors echoed through Odessa Park. Willamette Valley, donned in the silks of owner-breeder Paul Sellers, was a force to be reckoned with. Breaking from the inside post, jockey Tamara Garcia skillfully guided the 6-year-old gelding to a third position at the first call, 1 1/2 lengths behind the leader.
Country William, representing the stable of Craig Mcgee and guided by Colin McCann, encountered an initial challenge by breaking slowly. However, a spirited rally ensued, placing him at the forefront at the first call, leading by a length.
The Home Stretch Drama:
As the field charged down the homestretch, the crowd witnessed a neck-and-neck battle between Willamette Valley and Country William. In a photo finish that captured the essence of Texan determination, Willamette Valley emerged victorious by a mere neck, crossing the finish line with a remarkable time of 0:19.64.
Country William, despite the initial setback, showcased his resilience, finishing a close second by a head. Sofa King Fast, quick from the gate and guided by Claire Delaney, displayed a valiant effort, securing the third position by 4 3/4 lengths. Smokestack Lightnin', rounding out the field, showed tenacity throughout the race.
Analysis:
Willamette Valley's triumph was a testament to Texan breeding and racing prowess. Breaking well and holding steady, the son of Fld Eclipse and Snow Trekking not only claimed the winner's purse of $50,000 but also earned a significant breeder award of $7,000 for owner-breeder Paul Sellers.
Conclusion:
The "Country State Of Mind" Stakes at Odessa Park will linger in the memory of racing enthusiasts as a chapter of Texan excellence. Willamette Valley's victory encapsulates the spirit of Texas-bred racing — determination, speed, and the indomitable will to win. As the sun sets over Odessa Park, the echoes of this thrilling sprint will resonate, leaving an enduring mark on the legacy of Texas horse racing.