Silent Runner Claims Walter R. Cluer Memorial Stakes at Turf Paradise
Silent Runner, a 7-year-old dark bay or brown gelding, secured victory in the Walter R. Cluer Memorial Stakes at Turf Paradise on February 11, 2026. The race, a stakes event for 4-year-olds and up, covered approximately 7½ furlongs on the turf with a guaranteed purse of $30,000.
A Close Finish
Ridden by Jose Asencio and trained by Jose Silva, Jr., Silent Runner finished the race in 1 minute and 28.24 seconds, just ahead of Mongolian Memory by a half-length. Kennebec finished third, a neck behind Mongolian Memory. The margins were tight, with Zoffarelli, Saline River, Eye On Ry, Terry’s Boy, Baie Longue, Gatlinburg, and Runaway Charlie completing the field.
Pedigree and Background
Silent Runner’s lineage traces back to Silent Name (JPN) and Flashy Consort. Bred in Ontario, Canada, by C. Scott Abbott Racing Stable, the gelding has demonstrated consistent performance throughout his career. His dam, Flashy Consort, has produced several winners, including Silent Flash, a stakes performer.
Family History and Nicking
The performance of Silent Runner highlights a successful nick between Silent Name (JPN) and mares by Bold N’ Flashy. Data indicates that this pairing has produced 6 foals, with 4 becoming winners, and 2 becoming stakes winners. Bold N’ Flashy’s daughters have proven to be successful broodmares, with a 49% winners-to-starters ratio.
Jockey and Trainer Connections
Jose Asencio’s skillful ride was instrumental in Silent Runner’s win. Trainer Jose Silva, Jr. Has a proven track record, and this victory adds to his accomplishments. The combination of experienced jockey and trainer clearly contributed to the horse’s success.
Prizemoney Distribution
The winning connections of Silent Runner received $18,900 for their first-place finish. Mongolian Memory’s connections earned $6,000 for second place, while Kennebec’s team took home $3,000 for third. Further down the line, prizes were awarded to Zoffarelli, Saline River, and others.
The Walter R. Cluer Memorial Stakes: A Turf Paradise Tradition
The Walter R. Cluer Memorial Stakes continues to be a significant event at Turf Paradise, attracting competitive fields and showcasing talented horses. The firm turf conditions on February 11th presented a challenging track for the competitors.
Betting Odds and Favorites
While Silent Runner went off at 10/1, the betting favorites included Saline River (2/1) and Kennebec (11/4). The upset victory demonstrates that even horses with longer odds can prevail with the right performance on race day.
FAQ
Q: What distance was the Walter R. Cluer Memorial Stakes?
A: Approximately 7½ furlongs.
Q: Who trained the winning horse, Silent Runner?
A: Jose Silva, Jr.
Q: What was the total purse for the race?
A: $30,000.
Q: What is a “nick” in horse racing?
A: A “nick” refers to the successful crossing of two bloodlines, often resulting in improved performance in their offspring.
Did you know? Silent Runner’s victory in the Walter R. Cluer Memorial Stakes marks a significant achievement in his racing career, adding to his previous wins in the Frost King S. And Spangled Jimmy H.
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