Ridden by Emile Ramsammy, the son of Broken Vow took the 1 1/16-mile Polytrack event by a half-length over odds-on favorite Bonanza, outdueling the Mark Casse trainee in the drive. Discreet Commander, who led the whole way under Constant Montpellier but gave way in mid-stretch, was another 4 1/4 lengths back in third.
The final time was 1:44.28 on a fast track.
Carroll ambitiously placed Matt’s Broken Vow against a number of talented rivals in the Marine, including Bonanza, who was coming off a 3 1/4-length score in the April 25 Wando and was 3-0-2 from seven starts. He also faced Giquere and Kesagami, a pair of colts who fared well in previous two-turn tests and are pointing towards the Queen’s Plate later this spring.
In contrast, Matt’s Broken Vow didn’t get his first win until March 15 at Fair Grounds when he won in a $50,000 maiden claiming event at six furlongs. Trainer Josie Carroll then sent the dark bay colt to Canada, where he placed second in a five-furlong allowance event April 5. Two weeks later Ramsammy guided him to a third-place finish in the six-furlong Woodstock Stakes, also on the Woodbine Polytrack.
Despite having never tried a route, bettors sent Matt’s Broken Vow off at 5-1 the third choice in a field of six. Miner’s Claim was scratched.
Matt’s Broken Vow was unhurried through the backstretch, sitting fourth after a :47.62 half-mile set by Discreet Commander. Ramsammy moved his colt into position on the turn, was third at the top of the lane and after the pacesetter tired, dueled with Bonanza and Patrick Husbands for the final half-furlong.
Bred in Kentucky by Nicholas Lotz, the winner is out of the Ascot Knight mare Marianka. He is owned by Robert Mitchell. He was purchased for $60,000 at the Keeneland 2006 September yearling sale.
Matt’s Broken Vow paid $12.10, $3.70 and $3.20. The exacta (6-3) returned $26.10.
Giquere was fourth, followed by Mighty Vow and Kesagami.