This archive report was first published on 22 September 2019.
On September 21, 2019, Math Wizard, a chestnut son of Algorithms, made history by winning the Pennsylvania Derby at Parx Pennsylvania. Ridden by Iraz Ortez, the horse necked out Mister Money (Gabriel Saez) in a time of 1:50.40 seconds for 1 1/8 miles.
Math Wizard emerged from well off a slow pace to catch Mister Money, who was being held tightly, and bag the Parx Pennsylvania Derby title.
Shanghai Superfly (Fred Pennington) was already spent up the back stretch, while a more superior battle ensued near the line. Unfortunately, Maximum Security declined to run due to a colic earlier in the week, allowing Iraz Ortez to be gifted with a winning ride.
War of Will (Tom Gaffalione) ran third, with Improbable (Mike Smith) just behind. Improbable could have fared better had he not balked at the gates, rearing up to nearly throw Mike Smith down.
According to trainer Bob Baffert, Improbable heard a noise which caused him to be fractious in the stalls. He had to be re-loaded, then lost momentum.
Trainer Saffie Joseph said Math Wizard has only become a good horse suddenly. Part owner John Fanelli will now decide if Math Wizard can cope with the Breeders' Cup.
On the same program at Parx, Sophie Doyle achieved her premier success on Street Band in the Cotillion Stakes. The pair had 2.4 lengths to spare over Guarana, in a 1.5 mile fillies contest.
Michael Owen, the English former football hero, was also celebrating after his Angel Alexander scored at 28-1, from Growl, in the William Hill Ayr Gold Cup.
