by Evan Pattak, for the Meadows

Meadow Lands, PA — Trotting closer to the back of the pack than the front, Garcon got a few key breaks, unleashed a wide rally and went on to capture the $35,000 final of the A.W. Capone Series for freshman colts and geldings on Friday (August 15) at The Meadows.

Garcon, a five-race maiden entering the series final, was four lengths back in fifth when things started rolling his way. First, Photoforwin, the third choice in the wagering, was forced into a premature three-wide move that carried him to the lead but tired him as well. Then, Our Rail Fantasy, the 2-1 second pick, broke stride while enjoying a pocket trip.

That was all the help Garcon needed, as Bill Zendt steered him clear of trouble. Garcon came home in :29.1 and scored in 2:00, two lengths better than Photoforwin, with Bad As Billy third.

Zendt and his wife, Leslie, who trains Garcon, own the gelded son of S J’s Photo-Shimette.