Hero Status Race Recap

Hero Status was fourth in today’s Grade 3 Oaklawn Mile. The 4-year-old colt broke sharply under Christian Torres and maintained his position along the inside as long as he could going into the first turn before settling in the second pack down the backstretch behind the long shot pacesetter #6 Atoka.

The early fractions were quick (22.42 and 45.56) but Hero Status kept his position as the field went into the far turn while being restricted to the rail due to the constant pressure on his outside. Unfortunately, the long-shot pacesetter and rabbit had nowhere to go but backed right into Hero Status causing him to go from third to almost last. He ran on with a steady rally in the stretch to regain and hold onto fourth.

Trainer Robertino Diodoro felt your colt was definitely compromised some from the trip, though likely not being in winning contention, he may have been able to be in contention for third with his momentum not stopping. We’ll regroup and see how he exits this race to determine our next move. Looking ahead there is a third-level allowance option on Apr. 28 at Keeneland going one mile and one-eighth which would be a logical option if he bounces out well.