Comparative repels all challengers in G3 Bayakoa Stakes

Comparative notched a first G3 victory as she gamely denied Ice Orchid and Misty Veil in the Bayakoa Stakes at Oaklawn Park, USA, on Friday, 2 February.

Returning to Graded Stakes company following two Aqueduct wins, the Brad Cox-trained four-year-old was quickly into her stride in the extended-mile contest and soon established a half-length advantage over the field.

Shotgun Hottie moved up to narrowly head Comparative at the halfway point, with the Godolphin homebred rallying to regain her lead at the top of the straight.

Comparative continued to battle for Manny Franco down the lane, seeing off the sustained efforts of Ice Orchid and Misty Veil throughout the final furlong for a courageous half-length success.

Brad Cox said: “The speed seemed really, really good. A few races I’ve watched since I’ve been in town, horses on the front end weren’t backing up but were going fast and continuing on. I thought we were sitting a great trip the first turn up the backside.

“Congratulations to Godolphin, who brought Comparative back trying to make her a Stakes winner. She accomplished that in the first part of January [in the Ladies Stakes at Aqueduct] and winning a Graded Stakes is huge with her pedigree.”

Manny Franco added: “Comparative always tries hard. She did it last time – another horse engaged her and she just kept fighting. That’s what she did today. She felt the pressure and was hard to get by. She didn’t give up.”