Albert the Great became Nick Zito's first Jockey Club Gold Cup (gr. I) winner when the 3-year-old drew off through the stretch to win the $1 million race by six lengths Saturday at Belmont Park. Earlier in the day, Zito saddled his third consecutive Champagne Stakes (gr. I) winner.
"What a day, an amazing day," Zito said "It's very special. I'd never won a Jockey Club Gold Cup before."
Albert the Great led through an opening quarter-mile run in :23.63, dropped a head behind Gander after a half-mile in :46.86, and drew away impressively when roused by jockey Jorge Chavez. Albert the Great completed the 1 1/4 miles in 1:59.24 over a fast track and earned owner Tracy Farmer $600,000 for the win. Gander finished second, three lengths clear of Vision and Verse. Agol Lack was fourth, followed by Lemon Drop Kid, Behrens, and Skimming.
"I knew I made a mistake last time, and I told Nick (Zito) that," Chavez said. "I'm glad Nick gave me the chance to stay on him because I know this horse really well."
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