Making his first start since a commendable third place behind Japan's Forever Young in the G2 UAE Derby on March 30, Pandagate (Arrogate) showcased his talent by outdueling the slightly favoured Doc Sullivan (Solomini) to win Monday's New York Derby at Finger Lakes.
The impressive grey colt, who won the Gander Stakes by 5 1/2 lengths on February 25, earned his trip to Dubai but lacked early speed, settling into fifth place among six runners behind a moderate pace in the opening half-mile. With about 2 1/2 furlongs to go, Pandagate began to drive forward, taking some time to find his rhythm. Ridden four to five wide into the stretch by Dylan Davis, he took the lead at the furlong mark and fought valiantly to fend off the favourite for the victory.
Kitty Panda, who placed third in New York-bred stakes, was purchased by prominent Kentucky breeder Fred Hertrich for $160,000 while in foal to Blame at the 2019 Fasig-Tipton February Sale. This 14-year-old mare is a half-sister to MSW & GSP Akilina (Langfuhr), the dam of SW & MGSP Governor Malibu (Malibu Moon) and Rieno Tesoro (Speightstown), a three-time listed winner in Japan and a competitor in Group 1 races on turf. Kitty Panda's most recent produce is a 2-year-old Kentucky-bred colt by City of Light. For more details, visit the Equibase.com chart.