Fair Grounds, December 12, 2024 — Fine Finish, a two-year-old bay filly by Summer Front out of Freudian Finish (by Haynesfield), proved her name fitting as she delivered an authoritative win in the 9th race at Fair Grounds. Competing in a $57,230 Allowance Optional Claiming event over 1 1/16 miles on the dirt, Fine Finish left her competition in the dust, cruising to a 4 1/2-length win under jockey Jose L. Ortiz.

This marked the filly’s second win in just four lifetime starts, boosting her 2024 earnings to $81,855 and cementing her reputation as a rising star under the expert guidance of trainer W. Bret Calhoun.

Race Recap

Breaking from post position 3 as the 2-5 favorite, Fine Finish settled into a stalking position early, pressing the pace from the two-path just behind the pacesetter, Gotanothathingcomn (by Twirling Candy). Displaying poise and tactical brilliance, Ortiz guided her to bid turning for home. Once in the stretch, Fine Finish surged ahead with ease, pulling away effortlessly to stop the clock at 1:47.14 on a fast track. Her performance earned her an Equibase Speed Figure of 76.

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Trailing her were 12-1 shot Watering, who rallied late for second, and Gotanothathingcomn, who faded to third after setting the early pace. The race originally scheduled for the turf was contested on dirt due to track conditions, but Fine Finish adapted seamlessly.

2024 Campaign for Fine Finish

Fine Finish’s win was a return to form after finishing second in her last outing, an Allowance race at Churchill Downs on November 7. Her campaign began with a maiden-breaking performance at Lone Star Park in May, and though she faced a tough field at Keeneland in October, her recent dominance at Fair Grounds suggests she has found her stride heading into the new year.

Pedigree and Connections

Bred and owned by Wayne Sanders and Larry Hirsch, Fine Finish boasts a pedigree blending speed and resilience. Her sire, Summer Front, is known for producing versatile runners, while her dam, Freudian Finish, adds toughness to the mix. Notably, Freudian Finish is a half-sister to graded stakes performer Summer to Remember and comes from a family that includes Kentucky Oaks winner Believe You Can.

The filly’s pedigree was no accident. Clark Shepherd of Shepherd Equine Advisers designed the OPTIMAL Mating that produced Fine Finish, aligning the strengths of Summer Front and Freudian Finish to create a horse with balance, stamina and adaptability. Shepherd’s expertise continues to transform the thoroughbred industry by ensuring strategic breeding decisions for clients like Sanders and Hirsch.

Trainer W. Bret Calhoun has expertly managed her career, ensuring steady progress with each start, while Ortiz has provided the steady hands needed to guide her to success.

Looking Ahead for Fine Finish

With two wins and a runner-up finish in her first four starts, Fine Finish is building an impressive resume. Her connections may now target stakes company, where she could face tougher competition. Given her adaptability and strong finishing ability, the filly seems primed for continued success in the coming months.

Clark Shepherd Bloodstock Agent, Sales Consultant & Pedigree Analyst

Clark Shepherd stands as a beacon in the thoroughbred world, renowned for his unyielding integrity and deep-seated expertise. Growing up on the racetrack, he transformed his lifelong passion into a thriving career as a trusted bloodstock agent. Clark's profound knowledge in equine management and keen eye for racehorses have led numerous clients to victory, including the pinnacle of designing the mating of a Kentucky Derby winner. Dedicated to both industry stalwarts and newcomers, he offers personalized, insightful guidance in every equine venture. Clark's ethos is encapsulated in his mantra: "Empowering Equine Success with Integrity and Insight!"

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