It’s not every day we see a Belmont winner in action at a mid-Atlantic track — particularly when the horse in question is running in allowance company. And, for good measure, is not the favorite.
But that’s the condition Ruler on Ice, 2011 Belmont champ, found himself in today at Parx, in a money allowance going a mile on the main track. While he was 2.10-1, 2012 Smarty Jones Stakes winner Easter Gift was installed as the odds-on favorite and did not disappoint. The four year-old son of Hard Spun overcome a challenging trip to rally from last for a comfortable 3 1/2 length score.
Heart Butte, fifth early, made the lead in the lane but could not contain the winner, while Alma d’Oro earned the show. Ruler on Ice, forwardly placed for three-quarters of a mile, faded to fourth, beaten seven lengths.
The compact, six-horse field included five stake winners with a combined 11 career stakes wins.
