According to plan, Gucci Factor arrived to Belmont’s $125,000 Kingston Stakes in style earlier today. Granted the winter off and making his 2019 debut, the son of Gio Ponti lined up in this eight furlong turf test for New York Breds in the very capable hands of Jose Ortiz. Pre-race, handicappers were guessing that this could be a cagey, cat and mouse affair as there wasn’t too much speed in the field. However, from the outside Mo Maverick ensured there would be no hanging around as he got away in top gear and was at one stage fifteen lengths clear of his rivals. Jose used the pacesetter as exactly that and led the chasing group before arriving with a perfectly timed run in the straight to end up a snug 1 1/4 lengths clear at the wire. This was a well executed plan by Gucci Factor’s connections and they can now look forward to a summer of participation in similar events where he will be one of the leading Empire State breds.
