Favored Counterparty Risk Wins Endeavour

OLDSMAR, FL – Klaravich Stables’ Counterparty Risk won as the 4/5 favorite in Saturday’s $175,000 Lambholm South Endeavour Stakes (G3) at Tampa Bay Downs.

Counterparty Risk broke from post 5 under John Velazquez and raced in fourth with a ground-saving trip that she used to drive through an opening that pacesetter No Mercy Percy created when she drifted in the stretch.

Counterparty Risk prevailed by 1 length over New York Girl, with the Chad Brown trainee completing the 1 1/16-mile firm turf route in 1:43.20.

“She did everything good, thank God,” Velazquez said. “It was perfect because No Mercy Percy was keeping everybody outside. I cut the corner and she came running really well.”

New York Girl was 1 1/2 lengths ahead of Margaret’s Joy.

No Mercy Percy, Irony of Reality, and Kelsey’s Cross completed the order of finish.

Eres Tu and Logic N Reason scratched.

Counterparty Risk’s win was her first since breaking her maiden 2 starts back and followed a head defeat in the Lady of Shamrock Stakes at Santa Anita Park. The Irish-bred 4-year-old Australia filly improved her record to 4-2-1-0 with $153,580 earned.

“She’s a real exciting prospect for us moving forward,” Brown said. “(This win) is a credit to my team. She has had some injuries, none serious, but always inconveniencing and requiring patience. (Owner) Seth Klarman is extremely patient and always puts the horses’ interests first. She ran super today and got a terrific ride from Johnny V, which is what you expect from a Hall of Famer. She shot through the opening and showed a great turn of foot. We are very grateful for her ability and my team’s preparation.”

Counterparty Risk returned to $3.80 win, $2.20 to place, and $2.10 to show. New York Girl brought back $2.60 to place and $2.40 to show. Margaret’s Joy paid $3.80 to show.