A thrilling comeback story unfolded at Gulfstream Park on Saturday, where On Time Girl, despite facing challenges, emerged victorious in the Grade 3 Forward Gal, claiming a well-deserved win.
The Rise of On Time Girl
On Time Girl, a talented 3-year-old filly, showcased her determination and skill in a seven-furlong sprint, clocking an impressive 1:24.59 over a fast track. This victory not only marked her season and graded-stakes debut but also secured her a spot as a filly to watch in the racing world.
The Forward Gal, in its 46th running, served as a significant event in the racing calendar, offering a total of $975,000 in purses across five stakes races, including two graded ones. The race, named after the champion 2-year-old filly of 1970, awarded qualifying points for the prestigious Kentucky Oaks to the top five finishers.
A Field of Champions
On Time Girl, the even-money favorite, faced tough competition from the Arindel homebred Mythical, who had an impressive record of four stakes wins in six starts at 2. Mythical took an early lead, setting a fast pace, while On Time Girl, ridden by jockey Irad Ortiz Jr., strategically positioned herself between horses, pressed by the long shot Imperatrice.
As the race progressed, Mythical maintained her advantage, but On Time Girl faced a shuffle, dropping back to fourth. Imperatrice took over second, and Tessellate made a move on the outside, causing a moment of concern for trainer Brad Cox. However, Cox's worries were short-lived as On Time Girl demonstrated her champion spirit.
A Champion's Comeback
Ortiz remained patient aboard On Time Girl, waiting for the perfect opportunity. As they turned for home, Ortiz found the opening he needed, steering his filly between Tessellate and Hollen Drive. On Time Girl responded with determination, forging ahead and outpacing both Imperatrice and the late-running Sneaky Good.
Ortiz described the race, saying, "I broke good and stuck close to Mythical, who had early speed. I took my time, waiting for the right moment. At the half-mile pole, I found my spot, and the filly responded beautifully. She kept fighting, and I was able to hold my ground. After that, she took off and did the rest."
The final results saw On Time Girl claim the win, with Imperatrice finishing second, followed by Sneaky Good, Hollen Drive, Mythical, Tessellate, Secane, and Music Burst.
A Bright Future Ahead
On Time Girl, a daughter of Not This Time and out of the Uncle Mo mare Girl Daddy, has an impressive pedigree. Her dam won the Pocahontas (G3) and finished second in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies in 2020. With her successful performance in the Forward Gal, On Time Girl's trainer, Brad Cox, believes she has the potential to stretch out in longer races.
"Based on her pedigree, it's certainly possible," Cox said. "She might be able to handle the distance. We're considering the Davona Dale as a potential next step, which is a one-turn mile race in late February."
The future looks bright for On Time Girl, and her upcoming race in the $225,000 Davona Dale (G2) will be a thrilling spectacle for racing enthusiasts. Will she continue her winning streak? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: On Time Girl has captured the attention of the racing world and is a force to be reckoned with.
And this is the part where the story gets even more intriguing... What do you think? Will On Time Girl's success continue, or will she face new challenges? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
