Program Trading, trained by Chad Brown for Klaravich Stables, secured a dramatic victory in the GI Old Forester Turf Classic S., marking the team’s fourth win in this event over the last six years.
‣ Program Trading won the GI Old Forester Turf Classic S., marking a fourth victory in this event for Klaravich Stables and trainer Chad Brown in the last six years, showcasing their dominance in this competition.
‣ The victory was achieved through strategic positioning and a masterful ride by jockey Flavien Prat, who utilized an opening on the rail to secure a dramatic win, highlighting the importance of race tactics and jockey decision-making in horse racing.
‣ Program Trading’s pedigree includes notable lineage, with connections to champions and Group 1 winners, underscoring the significance of breeding in the success of racehorses.
A thrilling photo finish in the Turf Classic Stakes @ChurchillDowns goes to #5 Program Trading on the inside at odds of 4/1!
Jockey: Flavien Prat
Trainer: Chad Brown
Owner: Klaravich Stables Inc pic.twitter.com/3EryxPK9Wb— TwinSpires Racing 🏇 (@TwinSpires) May 4, 2024
Program Trading, under the banner of Seth Klarman’s Klaravich Stables and guided by trainer Chad Brown, clinched a nail-biting victory at the GI Old Forester Turf Classic S. This win marked a significant achievement, being their fourth in just six years. The horse, a son of Lope de Vega {Ire}, edged out Godolphin’s Naval Power in a finish that could only be described as heart-stopping.
Entering the race as a 4-1 shot, Program Trading was making a splash in his 4-year-old debut. It was his first race since a close victory over Webslinger in the previous year’s GI Hollywood Derby. From the get-go, he was in it to win it. As Never Surprised took the lead and Naval Power positioned just outside, Flavien Prat and Program Trading found themselves exactly where they needed to be – snug against the fence, shielded by the pacesetter.
The early pace was moderate, with Never Surprised setting fractions of :24.48 and :49.51. Program Trading kept to the rails, navigating the turns with precision. However, as they entered the stretch, Naval Power made a bold move, overtaking a fading Never Surprised. Webslinger was hot on their heels, almost clinching the lead. Yet, it was Prat’s strategic move through an opening left by Frankie Dettori that sealed the deal for Program Trading, winning by a whisker.
Webslinger, though a strong contender, couldn’t outpace the leaders, finishing in a tight race for third with Integration. The latter had a decent run but couldn’t cover the final distance quickly enough.
Back in 2019, Brown and Klaravich celebrated their first Turf Classic win with Bricks and Mortar. Following that, Digital Age took the crown in 2020, and Domestic Spending shared the top spot in 2021. Each victory featured European-bred horses, a testament to their keen eye at the Tattersalls October sales.
Program Trading’s journey to this point has been nothing short of remarkable. After debuting with a win at Monmouth, he quickly moved up the ranks, capturing a win at Belmont and then triumphing in the GI Saratoga Derby Invitational. Despite a setback in the GIII Virginia Derby, he bounced back, showcasing his resilience and talent.
Chad Brown had nothing but praise for the horse, highlighting his exceptional training over the winter. He shared a crucial piece of advice with jockey Flavien Prat, emphasizing the importance of conserving energy due to the horse’s layoff. Brown’s strategy paid off, with Prat delivering a masterful ride that clinched the victory.
The pedigree of Program Trading is as impressive as his performance on the track. His lineage includes champions and Group 1 winners, underscoring the potential that was evident from the start. His dam’s side boasts remarkable achievements, further solidifying his status as a top-tier competitor.
The Turf Classic at Churchill Downs was a spectacle, with Program Trading’s victory capturing the attention of racing enthusiasts. The thrilling finish, captured in a tweet by TwinSpires Racing, underscored the excitement and unpredictability of horse racing.
As the dust settles on another memorable Turf Classic, the focus shifts to the future. With such a rich pedigree and a track record of success, Program Trading is poised for more significant achievements. The racing world watches eagerly, anticipating his next move on the turf.
