Albaugh Family Stables’ homebred Admiral Dennis showcased a powerful closing kick to capture the $200,000 Delaware Derby at Delaware Park on Saturday, June 14. Under a confident ride from Luan Machado, the Brad Cox-trained colt stalked the pace before taking command at the top of the stretch and drawing clear for a decisive 3 ¼-length victory.
The 1 1/16-mile contest for three-year-olds began with Kentucky Outlaw breaking sharply and setting the early pace, clocking the opening quarter-mile in a brisk 23.06 and the half in 46.76.
Breaking from post position two, Admiral Dennis settled comfortably in a stalking position just off the leader’s flank, traveling smoothly in the three path.
As the field rounded the far turn, with three-quarters run in 1:11.49, Machado gave Admiral Dennis his cue. The son of Constitution responded willingly, ranging up alongside the pacesetter before powering past at the quarter pole.
Once he struck the front, the race was effectively over. Admiral Dennis extended his advantage through the lane, hitting the wire in a final time of 1:43.57 over a fast main track.
“He broke really well, and I was able to get a great position,” said Machado. “I had a lot of horse underneath me the whole way. When I asked him to go at the top of the stretch, he just exploded. He’s a very talented colt and it was a great performance today.”
The victory marked the third career win for Admiral Dennis, a promising chestnut colt bred by WinStar Farm, LLC. The win boosted his career earnings and established him as a serious contender in the three-year-old division.
Barbadian Runner, who was part of the second flight of horses, put in a solid late rally to secure the runner-up position, finishing well clear of the rest of the field but unable to match the winner’s acceleration.
Early leader Kentucky Outlaw held on for third after yielding the lead, weakening in the final furlong but gamely saving the show spot.
The victory was a satisfying one for the Cox barn and the Albaugh family, who have developed another quality runner. With this black-type stakes win on his resume, Admiral Dennis has a bright future ahead as the summer racing season heats up.
Scratched Horse(s): Academy (Trainer), Late Nite Call (Trainer), National Law (Trainer)
Fractional Times: 23.06, 46.76, 1:11.49
Final Time: 1:43.57
Winning Connections
Winner: Admiral Dennis
Jockey: Luan Machado
Trainer: Brad Cox
Owner: Albaugh Family Stables LLC
Breeder: WinStar Farm, LLC
Bloodline: Chestnut Colt, by Constitution out of Gulf Coast, by Union Rags. Foaled Mar 01, 2022 in Kentucky.
Stallion Info: Constitution stands at WinStar Farm in Versailles, KY.
Payouts
1st – (3) Admiral Dennis – Win: $6.40, Place: $3.80, Show: $3.00
2nd – (1) Barbadian Runner – Place: $8.20, Show: $4.40
3rd – (6) Kentucky Outlaw – Show: $2.80
Exotics: $1.00 Exacta (3-1) Paid: $24.70 | $0.50 Trifecta (3-1-6) Paid: $51.25 | $0.10 Superfecta (3-1-6-5) Paid: $55.29
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