DEL MAR, Calif. (Nov. 6, 2021) — California-bred multiple graded stakes winner Lieutenant Dan finished a game second in Saturday’s $1 million Grade I Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint Saturday at Del Mar.
The son of Grazen, out of the Indian Charlie mare Excusable, doggedly chased front-running winner Golden Pal throughout the five-furlong trip, finishing 1 ¼ lengths back to add $200,000 to his career bankroll, which is now $833,740. Golden Pal tied the course record of :54.75.
“He wasn’t ready to run against a rocket ship,” said trainer Steve Miyadi. “He ran great, probably the best race of his life.”
Breeder and owner Nick Alexander paid $100,000 to supplement Lieutenant Dan into the race. He was coming off three consecutive wins, which followed 13 months on the sidelines.
“I had a great trip,” said jockey Giovanni Franco. “He gave us a great race, I thought. He always tries very hard for us. I’m not disappointed in his effort.”