Equinox Bi inherits Breeders Crown Trot

Equinox Bi, an American-bred trotter who had spent his entire racing career in Europe until late July, tracked down leader Corleone Kosmos in the stretch and benefited from a late break at the wire to be placed first and capture the $726,000 Breeders Crown Trot at Mohawk Raceway.

For Equinox Bi, owned by Scuderia Gina Biasuzzi of Italy and Florida, a six-year-old son of Valley Boss Bi out of the Royal Prestige mare, 1996 Breeders Crown champion Personal Banner, it just the second start in North America. In his other start, Equinox Bi was second to Corleone Kosmos in the Nat Ray at The Meadowlands, August 4.

Equinox Bi was catch driven to victory by Trevor Ritchie, a late replacement for Mike Lachance who was delayed arriving at Mohawk.

“I got the call at 5:55 p.m.,” Ritchie said after the race. “I was sitting on my couch in Acton.”

John Campbell and Corleone Kosmos went to the front early and seemingly had things all his own way, tripping the quarter timers in 27 and 57.3 before picking up the pace and going to the three-quarter pole in 1:25.2.

In the stretch, Corleone Kosmos was coasting before Equinox Bi closed strongly. Corelone Kosmos crossed the wire approximately a half length in front but had broken stride.

After review by the judges, Equinox Bi was placed first, Corleone Kosmos was set back to second and Vivid Photo finished third.

For the Biasuzzi Stable, who made a $75,000 supplemental payment to enter the race, it was the fourth victory in as many Breeders Crown starts. The win moved Trevor Ritchie into a tie for eighth place with seven Breeders Crown victories.

To see a replay of the race click here.

(Breeders Crown)

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