First Peace earned his second career stakes win on July 21 at Del Mar with a 1 ¼-length tally in the $100,000 Wickerr S. at one mile on the turf.
When a trio of horses sped away from the gate intent on getting the lead, First Peace, with Mike Smith aboard, settled nicely in fourth. The leaders had a about a half-dozen lengths on the field at the midway point, but after a half in :45.04, the early pace began to take its toll. First Peace ranged up three-wide on the turn and took command at will. He was strong through the stretch and easily held off Astronomer for the win.
The final time of 1:33.81 on the firm turf was good for a career-best Beyer Speed Figure of 100.
“He got a perfect set up today. No doubt about it,” said winning trainer Mark Glatt. “It helps when three horses blast-off away from you. They got away from him enough to where it probably helped Mike (Smith) settle him back a little. That was extremely impressive. I’m looking forward to what the future holds for him going a little farther”.
Winner of last year’s John Shear S. at Santa Anita Park, First Peace has a mark of 4-5-2 in 13 starts, with earnings of $328,020. The 4-year-old is owned by Rancho Temescal LLC, Red Baron’s Barn, LLC and Rodney Orr.
First Peace was bred in Kentucky by Christopher Baker and Mullikin Thoroughbreds.
Funtastic, who stood this year for $5,000 S&N, is the leading Third-Crop sire by percentage of Grade 1 stakes horses. Winner of the Grade 1 United Nation S. Funtastic is a half-brother to the dam of Three Chimney’s leading sire Gun Runner.
