It's a Giggle Wins Steeplechase Stakes at Saratoga

• Print

Not many times does a horse finish second in a maiden race, then win a $75,000 stakes race. But that's just what It's a Giggle did.

The 8-year-old gelding was prepped by trainer Jonathan Sheppard for the S.P. Smithwick Memorial Steeplechase Handicap (NSA-II) Thursday at Saratoga in a maiden race at Colonial Downs. After all, just because he has now won nine jump races, It's a Giggle is still a maiden on the flat. He finished second in the maiden race on July 23.

In the Smithwick, It's a Giggle set off the early leaders and took the lead in the 2 1/16 miles race with a half mile to run. He then held off the late charge of Tres Touche, with Indispensable third.

It's a Giggle (Northern Baby -- Marlie's Delighted, by Mo Bay) covered the distance under substitute rider Gus Brown in 3:37.56. He paid $3.70 as the favorite.

Brown was replacing Blythe Miller, who was injured in a race Aug. 1. It's a Giggle is owned by William Pape.

(Chart, Equibase)

• Print