Bridlewood Farm freshman Mr. Sekiguchi sired his first winner May 27, when a 2-year-old filly named Rose and Shine captured a $37,200 maiden race at Woodbine (VIDEO) .
Showing professionalism in her debut at the races, Rose and Shine settled wide early before closing strongly late, overtaking the pacesetter and proving best at the wire. The final time was :52.11 seconds in the 4 1/2-furlong contest for 2-year-olds over the local Polytrack. Rose and Shine, who came into her debut off a strong work tab that included a bullet work on May 15 at Woodbine, was sent off as the favorite at just under 2-1 in the odds.
A half-sister to 10-time winner and stakes performer Rosie Regent, Rose and Shine is out of the Colonial Affair mare Yellowenglishrose. The win earned her $22,320 for owner James Sabiston, who bred the filly in Ontario. Ralph Biamonte trains.
Mr. Sekiguchi is a regally-bred son of Storm Cat, out of the Seeking the Gold mare Welcome Surprise, a graded stakes-winning half-sister to A.P. Indy. The chestnut horse was an $8 million sale topper at Keeneland September as a yearling, and went on to race under the tutelage of Bob Baffert. Never worse than second, Mr. Sekiguchi possessed 1:08 2/5 speed for six furlongs, recording Beyer Speed Figures of 101, 96, and 91.
Mr. Sekiguchi stands at the Appleton family's Bridlewood Farm near Ocala. His 2011 stud fee is $2,500.