Horse Racing News - Tres Borrachos Pulls it off in the Swaps

July 12, 2008 – 5:15PM

Tres Borrachos upset the Swaps and probably more than a few bettors who had their money on Colonel John or Two Step Salsa. When I am wrong I’ll say I’m wrong. I didn’t think Tres Borrachos could pull this off. Usually when upsets like this occur, they come from horses that have not run against the favorites and so it is harder to compare them. Tres Borrachos was beaten convincingly by Two Step Salsa in the Affirmed, and by Colonel John in the Cash Call Futurity (though that was some time ago).

As noted by race caller Vic Stauffer, Two Step Salsa was off just a half step slow out of the gate, but he quickly regained his footing and went up to challenge Tres Borrachos who was vying for the early lead. Two Step Salsa then took command and led down the backstretch while Tres Borrachos conceded the lead, electing instead to remain a length and a half back down at the rail. Colonel John meanwhile, had absolutely the perfect stalking trip in the three path, laying just a length behind Two Step Salsa.

It should be noted that Two Step Salsa clicked off a half in 47.00 seconds which is certainly on the fast side for a nine furlong race, about 6 lengths faster than what is normal, and about 4 lengths faster than for stakes races at this distance at Hollywood Park.

Nevertheless, with the exception of Madeo, who laid 5 lengths off the pace, they all were close to that very fast pace. From all appearances, neither of the two favorites had any visible excuse. By the time Two Step Salsa came to the quarter pole, he seemed to be struggling a bit, as Tres Borrachos made a quick move down at the rail, and I knew my exacta was in trouble.

Tres Borrachos opened up a length in mid-stretch and held on very gamely to win by 1 ¼ lengths. Two Step Salsa got the head bob over Colonel John. Two Step Salsa affirmed his talent against Tres Borrachos last time out, but they swapped the order of finish this time.

The bad news is I lost my money. The good news is that racing has a promising new three year old star, and in a year in which there doesn’t seem to be a deep well of talent.