Nocturnal wins on Feb. 27, 2021 at Gulfstream Park – Coglianese photo
Nocturnal remained perfect in 2021 with a gutsy allowance win Saturday at Gulfstream Park, fending off multiple challengers to win the one-mile race by 1 1/4-lengths.
The 4-year-old son of Palace Malice, owned by Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners and Cheyenne Stables LLC, has won two of his three starts and earned $63,970. He was bred by Candy Meadows LLC and is out of Only by the Night, a half-sister to three-time Grade 1 winner Curalina.
Nocturnal broke on top in the field of nine, but was quickly passed by Sounion, who led the field through a quick half-mile in :45.84, with Nocturnal just a neck from the lead. Nocturnal took over the top spot entering the turn, and was joined by Beau Luminarie, who was nearly on even terms entering the stretch. Nocturnal re-asserted himself and edged clear in the final furlong, stopping the timer in 1:35.63 on a fast track.
Palace Malice has gotten off to an excellent start in 2021, ranking in the top 10 on the Third-Crop sire list by progeny earnings, winners and stakes horses. His fee this year is $20,000, stands and nurses.
