Gomezian broke out of the gates hard on Sunday and never looked back, ruling the P2 million Philippine Racing Commission Lakambini Stakes over Radio Bell at San Lazaro Leisure Park as the filly served notice of her readiness for the next big racing event.
Oneal Cortez steered Gomezian splendidly, as they held off the Jonathan Hernandez-guided Radio Bell for the entire mile to clock a respectable one minute and 42.2 seconds for the win worth P1.2 million.
“Excited,” owner Freddie Santos said of his prized chestnut’s win. “We now feel we are ready for the Klub Don Juan Derby [on Oct. 2].”
Enigma Uno checked in third, with Tinago Falls arriving fourth.
Meanwhile, stayer Starrininmydreams ruled the P1-million Imported/Local Challenge Race ran in 2,400 in honor of the late Henry Cojuangco.
The Super Saver out of Boy Crazy offspring patiently watched from the middle of the pack before making the winning move at the half-mile mark, outlasting Time for Glory for a one-length victory.
The victory was worth P600,000 with Downsideprotection arriving third. Starrininmydreams timed 2:40.4 for the back-breaking grind broken down in 23, 23’, 26’, 28’, 27 and 31 for a total of 2:40.4. INQ