SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. (AP) — Sermon of Love, ridden by Brian Crowley, rallied to the lead inside the final jump and won the $100,000 New York Turf Writers Cup Steeplechase by a length on Thursday at Saratoga Race Course.
The 7-year-old, Jonathan Sheppard-trained gelding carried 148 pounds for 2 3/8 miles over the inner turf course in 4:36.83 for his second win of the meeting over hurdles and his first in Grade 1 company.
Sermon of Love paid $4.30, $2.60 and $2.10. He was coupled in the wagering with Divine Fortune, who finished fourth of eight. Runner-up Arcadius paid 4.20 and $3 and Swagger Stick, the leader to the last fence, paid $4.50 to show.
Sermon of Love earned $60,000 for owner William L. Pape.
