Positano Sunset back to winning ways in $300,000 Open Mind S.

Goldencents’ classy mare Positano Sunset picked up her third career stakes win in Saturday’s $300,000 Open Mind S. and simultaneously became racing’s newest millionaire with the hard-fought victory.

Freshened over the summer by trainer Ian Wilkes, Positano Sunset broke on top in the 6 ½-furlongs sprint, then settled off the dueling Gray Lightning and Little Prankster, who blazed through a half-mile in :45.84. Positano and Mink’s Palace both surged past the pacesetters in upper stretch. Mink’s Palace had a half-length lead with a furlong to go, but Positano Sunset fought back gallantly along the rail to win by a neck in 1:16.14 on fast track.

“She really dug in late to get the job done,” jockey Julien Leparoux said. “I’m really proud how she did that coming back off the layoff.” 

Winner of the Madison S. (G1) in April, Positano Sunset is now 6-4-0 in 18 starts and has earned $1,054,463 for owners Six Column Stables LLC, Randall Bloch, John Seiler, and David Hall.

Positano Sunset was bred in Kentucky by John Seiler, Randy Bloch, Trish Henson, Brad Stephens & Dave Hall. Dam Gigglin’ Gal is a half-sister to multiple graded winner Island Town.