In a display of racing excellence, the seven-year-old chestnut gelding Tapit Good captured his fourth career victory on Thursday, January 1, 2026, demonstrating that perseverance yields rewards. Competing in the sixth race at the track, the David Powell-conditioned horse ended a streak of three consecutive runner-up finishes with a commanding performance.
Tapit Good dominated Division II of the three-year-old and upward Optional Claiming event ($500,000-$400,000), specifically for six-year-olds and upward non-winners of four races and native-bred five-year-olds non-winners of three. Under jockey Shaheem Gordon, the veteran competitor covered the five-furlong straight course with authority, ultimately crossing the finish line four lengths clear of his nearest rival.
The race began with an evenly matched break, seeing Tapit Good initially contend with challengers including Golden Syrup (ridden by Richie Shakes), Princess Ifiyah (Shavon Townsend), Radam (Tyrese Anderson), Jaguar (Christopher Mamdeen), and Magical Mood (Emelio McLean). However, as the field passed the dummy rails, Tapit Good asserted his superiority, seizing control of the pace and steadily increasing his lead. The gelding maintained his advantage effortlessly, cruising to a comfortable victory without pressure in the final stages.
Papa Gray, piloted by Phillip Parchment, secured second position, while First Offense, with Dane Dawkins aboard, completed the top three. This win marks a significant milestone for Tapit Good, who now boasts four wins from 45 lifetime starts, highlighting his consistency and competitive spirit in high-level claiming events.