Cogburn, ridden by Irad Ortiz Jr. and trained by Steve Asmussen, won the GII Twin Spires Turf Sprint at Churchill Downs, marking a successful return after a seven-month break and demonstrating his prowess on turf.
‣ Cogburn, trained by Steve Asmussen and ridden by Irad Ortiz Jr., won the GII Twin Spires Turf Sprint at Churchill Downs, marking a successful return after a seven-month break and demonstrating exceptional performance on turf.
‣ The horse’s pedigree is highlighted, with Cogburn being one of three foals out of In a Jif to race and win, showcasing a family line of successful racers. This includes siblings and a full-brother produced last term, indicating strong genetic potential for racing.
‣ Concerns about Cogburn’s ability to overcome the challenge of starting from the 14th position were dispelled by his excellent start and performance, with trainer Asmussen and jockey Ortiz expressing confidence in his readiness and capability, which was evident in his victory.
The G2 Twin Spires Turf Sprint Stakes presented by @sentientjet goes to Cogburn and jockey Irad Ortiz Jr! pic.twitter.com/4T8dmXqo9U
— Churchill Downs (@ChurchillDowns) May 4, 2024
LOUISVILLE, KY—Right out of the gate, it was like Clark Brewster and the Heiligbrodts’ Cogburn had a point to prove. Sharp as a tack, he shook off any sign of rust, clinching a victory by over two lengths in the GII Twin Spires Turf Sprint. It all went down early on Derby Day, setting a vibrant tone for the races to follow.
Cogburn, stepping out for the first time in 2024, was given 8-1 odds. Despite the odds, the 5-year-old burst ahead, initially letting Coppola and Mo Stash lead. The first quarter flew by in a brisk :22.61, with the track conditions marked as ‘good’.
As they rounded the far turn, Cogburn edged ahead from the outside. Yet, he briefly lost ground when Coppola took a sharp corner. But, under Steve Asmussen’s training, Cogburn was simply unstoppable. He surged ahead, leaving Filo Di Arianna and Mischief Magic trailing for second and third place, respectively.
Irad Ortiz Jr., the jockey, couldn’t hide his excitement post-race. “He was sharp,” Ortiz said, echoing Asmussen’s confidence in Cogburn’s readiness. “Once he started running, there was just no catching him.”
Last season, Cogburn showed his prowess on turf, bagging three consecutive wins. His transition from dirt to turf was nothing short of remarkable, culminating in victories at notable races across the country. Despite a fifth-place finish in his final race of the season, it was clear—Cogburn had found his calling on the turf.
Asmussen was all praises for Cogburn’s adaptability. “He’s taken to the turf exceptionally well,” he remarked. The concern about starting from the outside was quickly dismissed as Cogburn took the lead in a single leap.
Coming off a seven-month break, there were naturally some concerns. But Asmussen was confident. “He’s been training beautifully,” he said, addressing the challenges of returning from a layoff and the dreaded 14th post position. Cogburn’s performance was a testament to his ability to overcome obstacles with grace.
Cogburn’s pedigree is as impressive as his performance. He’s one of three siblings to race, all of whom have tasted victory. His family tree includes a 4-year-old sister by Classic Empire and an unnamed 3-year-old sister by Tapiture. Last year, In a Jif, Cogburn’s dam, produced another full brother, continuing the legacy.
The race at Churchill Downs was a spectacle, with Cogburn leading the pack in the Twin Spires Turf Sprint. His victory was not just a win but a statement. With a purse of over half a million dollars, the race was a highlight of the day, showcasing the skill and spirit of the competitors.
And so, Cogburn, with Ortiz in the saddle, claimed the spotlight at Churchill Downs. Their triumph was a testament to teamwork, talent, and the thrill of horse racing. As the crowd cheered, it was clear—Cogburn was a champion reborn, ready to conquer the turf once more.
