BJ SOUTHERN STAR SETS TRACK RECORD WITH BLACK GOLD 300 FUTURITY WIN
SALLISAW, OK — AUGUST 15, 2009 — Heading into the first division of the Black Gold Futurity, it was no secret that BJ Southern Star was the most accomplished runner among the nine two-year-olds who entered the gate.
Starting six times in his freshman campaign, BJ Southern Star has never finished worse than third in his career, finishing third in both the Kansas Jackpot and the Oklahoma Horsemen's Association Futurities earlier in the year.
After posting the fastest qualifying time, BJ Southern Star followed up that effort with a stirring half length victory over Miss Okey to win the First Division of the Black Gold Futurity.
Racing for owners Ruthardt-Wood Quarter Horses from Waxahachie, TX and trainer Kasey Willis from Caney, OK, the SOUTHERN CARTEL was guided to victory by journeyman rider Roy Brooks.
The duo covered 300 yards in a new track record 15.18 seconds.
With the winner's share of over $36,000, BJ Southern Star, a son of Southern Cartel, has now amassed more than $80,000 in his career.
James Sills Miss Okey was saddled by Eddie Willis and earned $19,000 for her second place effort. The filly was ridden by Jennifer Schmidt.
Coastal Candy, racing for her breeder Donald Friesen, finished third. Saddled by Stacy Charette-Hill and ridden by Kenny Muntz she picked up $11,400 for the effort.
Completing the field were Stoli Traffic, Make It Bentley, Sister Shelley Rose, Fantastic Six, Sweet Baby Do and Fly Del Rey. Takin On Quick was scratched.
