Trainer Robert Falcone Jr. continued his hot streak when John Grossi's Racing Corp.'s Maiden Beauty notched a gate-to-wire victory off 11 days' rest in the $100,000 Bay Ridge on December 30 at Aqueduct in Ozone Park, N.Y.
Falcone has hit the board with nine of his last 10 starters dating back to December 11 at the Big A, posting a record of 4-3-2, including a pair of wins with Maiden Beauty along with scores by Hoopla and Castle Chaos.
The 28-year-old conditioner said he has the one-mile $100,000 Biogio's Rose for older New York-bred fillies and mares on March 6 at the Big A in mind for Maiden Beauty.
The 6-year-old Revolutionary bay mare was claimed by Falcone for $45,000 in June and made her first start for new connections when second in the restricted Saratoga Dew on August 12 at Saratoga. She arrived at the nine-furlong Bay Ridge off a one-turn mile allowance optional claiming win on December 19 at Aqueduct.
Falcone admitted some concern with the quick turnaround.
“It's always concerning, especially when you consider her past performances before I had her,” Falcone said. “She had never run back that quickly, but as long as they're eating up and doing well, which she was, you've got to take a shot sometimes. Even though it was quick back, she came out of the race really well.”
Falcone said the option of remaining around one turn at seven furlongs in today's La Verdad was possible but that the mare's front-running style suited the Bay Ridge. Six of Maiden Beauty's nine lifetime wins were captured when leading at every point of call, including her last four victories.
“There's a lot that goes into picking your spots, especially stakes,” Falcone said. “We had talked about it. When she gets to the lead, she gets so brave. We figured we had an easier time going a mile and an eighth, than seven eighths so that was a big factor.”
Because of the quick turnaround, Falcone said he will go easy on Maiden Beauty for the time being.
“I'll let her tell me,” Falcone said. “She ran quick back, so she'll get some time in between. Our main goal would be the Biogio's Rose from here, but she could run in February if it's the right time.”
Falcone spoke volumes of owner John Grossi, complimenting his knowledge and understanding of the sport of horse racing.
“He's one of those owners that knows and understands the game. He's intelligent and supports the game very heavily,” Falcone said. “He breeds some of his own horses, he claims horses. We went to California last year and he was game to do that. He's easy to work with and understands the whole game. He's a great guy, he brings his granddaughter around the barn and she loves it. It's great to see young people getting involved.”
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