Slow Beginning No Problem For Mr Gruff

Overcoming a less-than-alert start, Mr Gruff was impressive in his comeback, defeating Compari and six others in the $67,650 Night Mover Stakes Friday night at Hollywood Park.

Making his first appearance since trailing in the Al Quoz Sprint March 26 at Meydan Race Course in the United Arab Emirates, the 7-year-old Mr Greeley gelding moved up quickly after out breaking only A Jealous Woman to gain a clear advantage down the backside, then had more than enough in reserve late to prevail by three-quarters of a length.

Trained by Ron Ellis for owner Gary Broad, Mr Gruff, the 5-2 favorite, completed the six furlongs on turf in 1:08.42 under jockey Joel Rosario. In winning for the sixth time in 11 starts, he increased his earnings to $298,290.

The win was the first in two races over the Hollywood Park grass for Mr Gruff, who is out of the Clever Trick mare Ruff. A two-time winner of the Grade III San Simeon Handicap at Santa Anita, Mr Gruff's only previous local experience was a third in the Grade I Shoemaker Mile May 31, 2010.

A winner five of the six times he has been the public choice, Mr Gruff paid $7, $4.20 and $3.40.

Category:

Sports

Tags:

• Hollywood Park
• Mr Gruff
• Joel Rosario
• Ronald Ellis

[Jean0987654321]

Mr. Gruff?? How original