NEW YORK (AP) — Strapping Groom drew off to a 612-length victory in the $98,000 Gravesend Handicap on Saturday at Aqueduct.
The 6-year-old trained by David Jacobson and ridden by Junior Alvarado took charge turning for home, rolling to his ninth win in 26 starts. Palace, the 3-5 favorite who had won three straight stakes, closed for second but was no match for the winner. The time was 1:09.74 for six furlongs on the track rated good.
Strapping Groom paid $5.40, $2.50 and $2.10 as the 8-5 second choice. Palace returned $2.10 and $2.10, and Abra returned $3.60 to show after setting the pace.
