Robert LaPenta's Nicky the Vest impressed trainer Jonathan Thomas in his career debut win in the finale on Friday's program, where he led gate-to-wire in securing a 3 ¼-length triumph under Kendrick Carmouche in a time of 1:40.67.
Bred in New York by Highclere, the juvenile son of freshman sire Runhappy garnered an 82 Beyer first out against his Empire State-bred counterparts at odds of 5-1 going a one-turn mile.
Thomas has not thought past Nicky the Vest's debut victory but will sort out his options and expressed excitement in what the future holds.
“The scenario played out well and the horse did everything you could ask a firster to do,” Thomas said. “We're still going to see how he comes out of his race. I'm sure we'll keep options open and see how things shake out. He ran a good number, a good number no matter the company. We're really happy with what we saw the other day. He had been training nicely in the morning, so it was good to see that replicated in the afternoon.”
Nicky the Vest is out of the Cat Thief mare Tazarine, whose six offspring of racing age are all winners. He was purchased for $110,000 from the 2019 OBS October Yearling Sale from consigner Stuart Morris.
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