Governmentshutdown wins the Rollicking. Photo by Jim McCue, Maryland Jockey Club.
From a Maryland Jockey Club release
Tim E. O’Donohue Racing LLC’s Governmentshutdown overcame early trouble to launch a strong stretch drive to victory in the $75,000 Rollicking Stakes over three other 2-year-olds.
“The race didn’t go as we planned but we got the finish we hoped for,” said trainer Jerry Robb.
The Rollicking was contested over the good main track and timed in 59.10 for the five-furlong distance. Jose Betancourt rode the gray son of Exchange Rate for trainer John Robb, who saddled Debt Ceiling for a victory in the 2013 Rollicking. Pret Say Eye finished second, 3 ¾ lengths behind the winner. Hootenanny, the 3-5 favorite, was third and Royalty Sea trailed.
Winning rider Jose Betancourt agreed with Robb. “We had to take back a little bit,” he said. “That’s not where I wanted to be, but I was really impressed the way he overcame that.”
Governmentshutdown broke his maiden in his second lifetime start at Pimlico on May 3. He paid $4.60 as the second choice in the wagering.
