2012 Haskell Invitational Day at Monmouth Park

By Cindy Pierson Dulay, About.com Guide

Immediately before the Haskell, a field of 7 older horses contested the $150,000 Oceanport Stakes (G3) at 1 1/16 miles on the turf. Queen'splatekitten, third in the Red Bank (G3) last out, was sent off as the 6-5 favorite over 5-2 second choice Get Serious, winner of the Red Bank, and 3-1 third choice Admiral Perry, off an allowance win.

26-1 longest shot Tune Me In battled for the early lead with Get Serious through fractions of 25.85, 50.12, and 1:13.64 over the firm course, with 8-1 Crepuscolo and favorite Queen'splatekitten stalking the lead pair third and fourth. Entering the stretch, Crepuscolo tired as Tune Me In took a short lead to the 1/8 pole through 1 mile in 1:37.36. Queen'splatekitten put in a mild rally but Tune Me In held him off by 1/2 a length in 1:43.39. It was a neck back to Get Serious third.

Results chart

On to the 2012 Haskell Invitational won by Coil