There was never any doubt that Riker, the dark bay son of Include—Desviacion, trained throughout his juvenile campaign by Nick Gonzalez for owner Tucci Stables, was an effective sprinter.
But the Grey provided Riker, bred in Kentucky by Turner Breeders, with his first two-turn challenge. Sent to post as the even-money favourite, Riker, with regular pilot Jesse Campbell up, opened up a four-length lead in the opening quarter-mile and took the compact five-horse field gate to wire for a 1 ½-length score under light handling.
Gonzalez was ecstatic in the aftermath of the triumph with the promise of a start in the Grade 1 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile looming.
“We’ll see how he comes out of the race, but we’re dreaming the dream,” said Gonzalez at the time.
The victory also put Riker in the frame for the 2016 Kentucky Derby.
“We went around two turns, picked up some Kentucky Derby points and after he won the Grey, the early odds for the Derby came out and we were listed at 30-1. It was great to see,” said Gonzalez.
Gonzalez has won the Queen’s Plate with Big Red Mike and Midnight Aria, but he admits taking part in the season-ending world championships with Riker was nearly as special.
“The Breeders’ Cup was one of the biggest thrills of my life,” said Gonzalez. “When he turned for home still in front it was such a rush. We were treated so well there and to be at the Breeders’ Cup was very special. The worst part about it is now I’m trying to figure out how we’re going to get back there this year.”
Under pressure throughout, Riker led a talented field of 14 through the final turn of the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile, but there was no denying the undefeated Nyquist who notched a ½-length victory over Swipe. Riker finished a competitive sixth, just four lengths back of the winner.
Tucci Stables sold a majority share of Riker in the offseason to Team Valor and Gary Barber, and the colt was transferred to the care of trainer Mark Casse. Gonzalez looks back fondly on the accomplishments of the champion two-year-old.
“It was a great ride. We were confident we would get the Sovereign because he won a graded race and performed competitively in the Breeders’ Cup,” said Gonzalez. “The day he walked out of the barn we were all sad, but we wish the new owners and Riker lots of luck.”
