SHAKOPEE, MN – On paper it looked like the horse that could stalk the plentiful pace in the Honor the Hero stakes at Canterbury Park would emerge the winner and that’s exactly what El Seventyseven got from Leandro Goncalves.

“I watched the races from the past and there was a lot of speed in the race,” Goncalves said after the race. Mac [Robertson] gave me the confidence to run my own race. My plan was to just lay off a little bit and get there on time.”

El Seventyseven broke sharply and settled in behind a very speedy dual between Rockin Home and Castletown. Those two led the field into the lane in the 5 furlong turf dash when El Seventyseven angled to the outside and powered past the leaders for the 1 ¾ length victory. Rockin Home was able to maintain a head advantage over Castletown at the wire.

Trainer Mac Robertson and Goncalves had to survive a brief objection when the trainer of fourth place finisher, Silver Lining John, Tammy Domenosky, claimed foul on the turn for home. The stewards quickly dispatched the objection and the result went official.

“Ry is a great rider,” said Goncalves. “He was just riding his race.”

The Memorial Day crowd of 11,323 were appreciative to have the 6/5 favorite romp home in :57.36.

El Seventyseven                                           4.40       2.80       2.40

Rockin Home                                                              6.00       3.80

Castletown                                                                                  2.60