SHAKOPEE, MN – If his victory in the Vic Myers Stakes wasn’t enough to stamp Hold for More as the clear favorite heading into the Minnesota Derby on August 8, his dominating performance in the $55,000 MTA Stallion Auction Stakes should have convinced all doubters.

Breaking alertly from the outside, Hold for More, under leading jockey Dean Butler, settled in just off of the upset minded Hi Five Cy.  Heading into the turn of the 6 1/2 furlong race Butler had enough of holding and wanted more.  With barely a move from his pilot, Hold for More surged alongside and then right on past Hi Five Cy and remained under wraps to the wire.

“He was just the best,” Butler said. “Francisco [Bravo] has done such a good job with this horse.”

“You have to have the horse,” Bravo said. “Don’t let anyone tell you that the trainer makes the horse. The horse makes the trainer.”

Hold for More was the big 1/9 favorite and the bridge jumpers were out in full force.  Over $150,000 in the show pool of $1650,000 plus was wagered on Hold for More who returned $2.10 across the board.  Plenty of Sun finished second while Bold Entry was third.

When asked if the mile and 70 yard distance of the Minnesota Derby was a possible cause for concern after sprinting exclusively thus far in his career, his owner, Dale Schenian, said, “No, I don’t think so.  I don’t think we’ve seen the best of Hold for More yet.”

That should be enough to keep owners and trainers of 3-year old Minnesota bred colts and geldings up at night heading into the $80,000 Derby.

MINNESOTA THOROUGHBRED ASSOCIATION STALLION AUCTION STAKES (1:19.24)

Hold for More                    2.10     2.10     2.10

Plenty of Sun                                  3.40     3.00

Bold Entry                                                    4.60