Robert S. Evans' homebred, Drake's Passage, stole the spotlight at Saratoga Race Course during the New York Showcase Day on June 9, particularly with his impressive victory in the $200,000 Commentator Stakes. Trained by Christophe Clement, this promising 4-year-old exhibited qualities reminiscent of his sire, the renowned Tonalist.
Under the skilled guidance of jockey Manny Franco, Drake's Passage took charge from the start, setting fractions of :24.45, :48.88, and 1:12.57 over the muddy track. Holding a 1 1/2-length lead after six furlongs, Drake's Passage extended his advantage to a remarkable four lengths as he crossed the wire in a swift 1:49.32 for 1 1/8 miles.
Trainer Christophe Clement was quick to draw parallels between Drake's Passage and his sire, Tonalist, the 2014 Belmont Stakes (G1) victor, whom Clement also had the privilege of training. Impressed by Drake's Passage's performance, Clement remarked on the similarities in appearance and racing style between the two.
Clement expressed gratitude to Mr Evans for his breeding program, which has produced such a promising talent. Drake's Passage, out of the stakes-winning Speightstown mare Raucous, has now notched up four victories from 10 starts, with total earnings amounting to $401,480.
Tonalist, standing at Lane's End in Versailles, Ky., continues to leave his mark as a stallion, with Drake's Passage exemplifying the calibre of progeny he produces.