The Leo Nechamkin owned and trained Gators N Bears won the $75,000 Hoover Stakes at Laurel Park Saturday, but not without a fight from Michael Gill's entry of Native Heir and My Good Trick.But the 4-year-old Stormy Atlantic colt prevailed by a half length as the 7-10 favorite in a field of 10.Ridden by Rick Wilson, Gators N Bears dispensed with pacestting Native Heir after a quarter-mile in :22 1/5, but entrymate My Good Trick launched a strong late attack. Gators N Bears dug in to hold him safe and Sassy Hound finished third. The winner completed the distance in 1:10 flat, paying $3.40, $2.40 and $2.20. The win was his fourth added money score since early July. The colt also finished third in the De Francis Dash (gr. I) in November.My Good Trick returned $3.40 and $2.40. Sassy Hound's show was $2.60.Next up for the son of Gators N Bears is the $200,000 General George (gr. II) on President's Day weekend. "We are hoping for a little speed in the General George," said Nechamkin. "Then hopefully he can lay off of somebody and go to the lead a little later in the stretch."
(Chart, Equibase)