Arravale Rallies To Win Woodbine's Natalma

Arravale, a 2-year-old daughter of Arch, is now two for two after gliding to victory in the $152,638 Natalma Stakes (Can-III) Sunday at Woodbine.

Handled by David Clark, Arravale, the second choice at 3-1, overcame the difficult rail post in the field of 11, sweeping past the leaders in mid-stretch for the win. The time was 1:35.73 for one mile over firm turf.

Nestled along the rail in mid-pack through early fractions of :23.08 and :46.25, the Bruce Lunsford-bred dark bay was one length better than 20-1 shot Top Notch Lady, one of two Mark Casse-trained entrants. Tasha's Delight, the other Casse filly, was three-quarters of a length further back in third.

Clark, who leads Woodbine riders with 12 added-money triumphs on the campaign, said, "There were a few quirks down the backside because she wasn't sure where she was. But she's very professional and you would think she's four."

Trained by Mac Benson for owner Robert Costigan, Arravale came into the Natalma off a neck score at seven furlongs on the Toronto oval grass on Aug. 13. She earned $88,066 for the victory.

"This is a great course," said Benson. "There's a really, really long run to the turn."

Arravale paid $8.80, $4.80, and $3.80, combining with Top Notch Lady ($18.30, $10.70) for a $132.90 exacta. Tasha's Delight, $7.60 to show), completed a $1,010.90 trifecta.

Shelterfromastorm, the 2-1 favorite ridden by Todd Kabel, finished seventh.

(Chart, Equibase)