Once a promising turf runner, Spirit Animal has made a spectacular comeback after being claimed for $10,000 last year. Recently, he won the $75,000 City of Light Handicap at Gulfstream Park. He did it with help from Woodbine trainer Martin Drexler.
Canadian trainer Martin Drexler praised Spirit Animal's toughness. It showed in his win against strong competitors Conglomerate and Fly the W on January 28. The dark bay eight-year-old was sired by Lemon Drop Kid. He showed great performance despite carrying six pounds less than Conglomerate. Conglomerate recently won the Grade 3 Valedictory Stakes.
In the race, Spirit Animal was ridden by Edwin Gonzalez. He kept a good position, moving from fifth on the far turn. He then made a four-wide move into the stretch. He took the lead in the mid-stretch and narrowly secured victory over Conglomerate.
This win marks a significant turnaround for Spirit Animal, whose career has seen ups and downs. Initially a $120,000 yearling, he was part of Klaravich Stable. He showed early promise under trainer Chad Brown and won his second race. However, after tough races, including a troubled run at the Seabiscuit Stakes (G2), his form got worse. This led to Go-To-Toga Racing claiming him.
Drexler later claimed Spirit Animal for Logan's TEC Stable for just $10,000. Since then, the gelding has grown, accumulating five wins and over $175,000 in earnings under Drexler's training.
Drexler shared his strategy. He considered shorter runs or turf for Spirit Animal, but chose the City of Light Handicap. This decision was wise. Spirit Animal showed his skill against tough horses like Conglomerate and Fly the W.
Additionally, the same day saw another victory for Logan and Drexler with Ontario-bred Ninety Four Expos, a son of Outwork. Ninety-Four Expos bought for $50,000 at the Fasig-Tipton Digital sale, led a 1 1/16 miles turf race, showcasing a career-best 77 Beyer Figure. This marked a significant improvement following a previous 27-length loss in a Tapeta sprint.