Tricky Escape Sneaks Up to Win the G3 Robert G. Dick Memorial

WILMINGTON, DE –  With a massive late burst of speed, Tricky Escape got up to win Saturday’s Grade 3, $200,000 Robert G. Dick Memorial Stakes at Delaware Park. This was the first win for Tricky Escape since winning the G3 Cardinal Handicap last November.

It was Broken Bridle who took up the early lead in the grueling 1 3/8 mile race on the turf, followed by Palinodie in second and the pair of Esquisse and Creative Thinking close behind. The first 1/4 was fairly quick at :23.89, yet as they came down the stretch the first time things quickly slowed down as the pace fell to :49.04.  Once the horses settled in, there was little movement almost until the final turn however things slowly started to pick up as the next fractions came in at 1:14.23 and 1:37.39. Into the final turn, it was Tricky Escape that made a big move as she flew to the front to eventually win by just over a length. Giovanna Blues also made an impressive move to get up for second and was followed by Palinodie and Broken Bridle in a close photo for third.

“I was happy she was able to lay close because everything that has gone to the front today has kind of stayed there,” said winning trainer Lynn Ashby.  “The race set up well for us because she has a wonderful turn of foot and the farther the better with her.  We are still not exactly sure where we will go next with her, but we are considering going to Saratoga with her.”

Tricky Escape returned $10.40 to win, $5.60 to place, and $4.00 to show. Giovanna Blues brought back $14.40 to place and $8.80 to show, while Palinodie paid $4.00 to show.