from Cal-Expo Raceway

Sacramento, CA — Dangerous Thing, who would have probably been the favorite in the featured race at Cal-Expo on Friday evening, April 8, was a vet’s scratch which left No Complications, the lone mare in the race, as the bettor’s favorite.

It was not to be for the mare however, as longshot Armbro Variable ($46.50) came first over on the far turn and just kept on going for the win in 1:57.4. It was a sparkling performance, indeed.

The event was the Invitational Handicap Trot and six square gaiters showed up to race for a purse of $7,200.

Todd Ratchford came away third with Armbro Variable, but I’m Dam Goog was caught outside and had to motor on to take the lead or die on the outside. Gilbert Garcia left with No Complications and had the lead past the opening quarter. Thereafter, they had the pocket.

BC’s Never Dance (Jim Ruchotzke) followed Armbro Variable on the far turn and those two sprinted by I’m Dam Goog at the top of the stretch. No Complications was boxed behind I’m Dam Goog and didn’t find room until late. At that point she came resolutely and just missed getting second and settled for third behind BC’s Never Dance.

Gordon Graham of Sacramento owns the winner. Graham is second trainer for Bobby Johnson, who is the trainer of record for this royally bred Donerail stud, out of the Super Bowl matron Delmegan. This was his second win in six starts this year and the first in this class.