By Seattle Times
AUBURN — Heavily favored California-bred Gold Rush Dancer resoundingly answered any questions about his ability to extend his sprinter’s speed over a longer distance.
Gold Rush Dancer, who had not run longer than 6½ furlongs in any of his four previous starts, pulled away after the final turn to win Sunday’s $65,000 Gottstein Futurity on closing day at Emerald Downs.
Gold Rush Dancer, trained by veteran Bill Tollett for owner and breeder John Parker of Lake Bay, displayed his stamina over the 1 1/16th-mile distance, finishing 5½ lengths before My Heart Goes On to give jockey Julien Couton his 100th victory in the 70-day season at Emerald Downs and the 75th running of the Gottstein.
“He has not run a bad race,” Tollett said of Gold Rush Dancer, who was a 2-5 favorite.
“He’s a very nice horse and he’s got nothing but time in front of him.”