by Ryan Hubbard, Hoosier Park publicity department

Anderson, IN — Hoosier Cadillac came from behind to win the $16,000 final of the Ralph and Dorothy Rose Series on Sunday, May 6, at Hoosier Park.

Terri Kelley photo

Hoosier Cadillac (Jay Cross) was a 1:57 winner in the Rose Series.

The 5-year-old Indiana-sired gelding swept the series, courtesy of the victory. Hammering down the stretch after a huge opening, Hoosier Cadillac trotted to the wire in a time of 1:57 for a new career best.

“I was just along for the ride tonight,” said Cross. “We got away right where I thought we would at the start of the race. He (Hoosier Cadillac) got the ideal trip. We made some really good changes before tonight’s race.”

Hoosier Cadillac roared out from the fourth post position to get in behind early leader Super Discipline and driver Doug Rideout. Sitting in the pocket, Hoosier Cadillac just let the pace dwindle out as Super Discipline cut fractions of :28.1, :59.1, and 1:28.4.

Hoosier Cadillac looked as if he had nowhere to go after being pushed back to third when Dr Potts and driver Ricky Macomber, Jr. made their move to the outside. A big opening was all Hoosier Cadillac needed to scoot on through and charge for the wire.

Holding a two length lead in deep stretch, Hoosier Cadillac found one final gear to pull away to a 5-3/4 length victory over Dr Potts. Rocky’s Hoot and driver Mark O’Mara rallied to finish third.

Hoosier Cadillac returned $2.80, $2.60, and $2.10 as the heavy post time favorite. He is undefeated in three starts at Hoosier Park this year. The son of Ripken’s Victory is an astounding seven for nine lifetime. He has now bankrolled over $21,000 for owner and trainer Mel Gilbert of Hawkinsville, Ga.

“I wasn’t really worried when we got trapped coming off the top of the stretch,” said Cross. “I knew Ricky’s horse (Dr Potts) would end up leaving some room for us to get through. Mel’s changes were great.”