El Cumanchero wins 2013 debut at Rosecroft

On a crisp March evening longtime Mid-Atlantic leading driver Steve Warrington returned to Rosecroft along with 2012 Spring Rosecroft Horse of the Meet El Cumanchero. Making their first respective first starts of 2013 the combination returned to the winner's circle for the sixth time at Rosecroft but it wasn't easy.

 

The always competitive Trophy Hunter blasted away from the gate in a quick :27 putting Captain Jack in the two hole with Warrington and El Cumanchero away third. After a :30.3 stolen second quarter by driver Art Stafford Jr., Warrington pulled first-over to challenge but slid into the pocket as the tempo increased through a sizzling :27.3 third quarter. As the field reached the final turn El Cumanchero angled out of the two hole and engaged Trophy Hunter, finally edging clear in the final yards to win in 1:55.2. Trophy Hunter was second best and Shakey Slim survived an uncovered trip to finish third for Corey Braden.

 

Warrington trains the winner and is co-owner with Lynda Warrington. The win was El Cumanchero's 15th lifetime and driver Warrington's 5,029th career winner.

 

Seemingly as usual Frank Milby recorded a driving double, John Wagner scored a double and Art Stafford Jr., also recorded a double. (Rosecroft)