Valtrus Proves Tops on Churchill Downs Turf

Apr 29, 2009 by Gary Yunt

Joseph Sutton’s Valtrus collared Faithope in deep stretch to win Tuesday’s $52,700 allowance feature over the Matt Winn Turf Course by three-quarters of a length.

Ridden by Kent Desormeaux for trainer Eddie Kenneally, Valtrus returned mutuels of $5.40, $3.60 and $3.40. Faithope, ridden by Gabriel Saez, returned $10.60 and $6.40 and finished three-quarters of a length ahead of pacesetter Crowned General who returned $4.80 to show under Robby Albarado.

Valtrus, a 5-year-old Kentucky-bred son of Lemon Drop Kid out of the Valiant Nature mare Miss Valiant, was fourth turning for home and rallied four-wide under Desormeaux to make his winning bid. Valtrus covered the mile over a turf course rated as “good” in 1:36.50.

The victory, the fifth in 19 starts and second over the Matt Winn Turf Course, was worth $32,105 and increased Valtrus’ career earnings to $172,310.