October 31, 2009 -- Santispac posted a :17.615 for a hard fought win in the 350 yard $75,000 Fort Dodge Challenge on October 31st at Los Alamitos. The bay gelding is owned by trainer Danny S. Montes.
Santispac broke second but gained the lead midway through the race and held on to win by a neck. Race favorite Willie Swings finished second.
"She ran a good race, but was a little tired," said the second finisher's trainer/owner Ugo De La Torre. "We ran her twice this month and plan on giving her a nice, long rest. She deserves it."
Willie Swings was ridden by Rodrigo Aceves and took home $15,000 for her effort.
Behind Willie Swings was Victorys Wicked Lad, who is owned by Shauna Edwards and Mark Loebner. The third place finisher earned $7,500.
With Noe Garcia up for the victory, Santispac earned $34,500 bringing his lifetime earnings to $156,436.
"We tried to retire him two years ago, but he was miserable. He came back well after a layoff and ran well again tonight," said owner/trainer Danny Montes.
Santispac was bred by Vessels Stallion Farm LLC. and is by Splash Bac out of Sand Spit by Hez Class. He was foaled in California in 1999.
Danny was unsure of a next start or future plans for this 10-year-old challenge winner.
Full results: Santispac, Willie Swings, Victorys Wicked Lad, Safehaven, Mister Jess Legacy, Dashing Strawfly, Eye Zoom Too, Looks Like A Dart, Strike Light and Eyesa High