Lit De Rose earns millionaire status with Matchmaker Series victory

Lit De Rose became the sport’s newest millionaire when she captured her $40,000 division of the final preliminary leg of the Blue Chip Matchmaker Series at Yonkers Raceway on Friday (April 12) night for trainer-driver Patrick Lachance. The 9-year-old daughter of Leader Bayama scored her fourth victory of the year, posting a final time of 1:53 2/5.

Racine Bell pulled off a mild upset of Lit De Rose in round four, and driver Jason Bartlett appeared intent on a repeat performance as he blasted from post seven to the lead at the outset. Delitfulcatherin N and Jordan Stratton managed to squeeze into a tuck behind the leader on the first turn, with Lachance clearing the field before making his move. Lit De Rose brushed before the 27 3/5 opening quarter for control and then utilized her advantage to march to fractions of 56 2/5 and 1:25 1/5 for the middle-half.

Dougs Babe A, with Dexter Dunn, moved on the third turn with speed to challenge uncovered, followed by Jive Dancing A and Easy To Please in the outer flow. Lachance appeared unconcerned with the outside tier as Lit De Rose kept to business and confidently kicked home in 28 1/5 to secure her 50th career victory. Dougs Babe A was determined and gamely nipped Racine Bell in the battle for the place spot, while Jive Dancing A was along for fourth.

Bred and owned by Guy Corbeil, Lit De Rose likely goes into the April 22 final as the favorite to capture the Blue Chip Matchmaker title.