Rapid Redux honored at Laurel

Rapid Redux, the winner of 22 consecutive races, was honored at Laurel Park

Saturday afternoon with a winners' circle presentation. Six of the victories

during the streak occurred at Laurel, more than any other track.

The son of Pleasantly Perfect, who had a perfect 19-for-19 season in 2011 and

took home a pair of national awards, received a specially designed blanket and a

tote bag full of goodies, while owner Robert Cole and trainer David Wells were

given trophies.

"I can't believe the size of the crowd in the parking lot," said Wells, who

brought his star down to central Maryland for the ceremony from his Pennsylvania

farm. "I haven't seen this many people at Laurel in a long time."

Cole, a Baltimore County native, claimed the gelding at Penn National for

$6,250 on October 13, 2010, and placed him into the capable hands of Wells. In

his next 24 races, Rapid Redux won 23 times with earnings of $266,074. The

win-streak began December 2, 2010, at Penn National. During the streak, Rapid

Redux won races at seven different tracks at distances from five furlongs to 1

1/8 miles, using seven riders.

"I have had a few moments at home where I sat there and said 'wow, how in the

world did this ever happen.' Every time I think about it just becomes more

unbelievable," Cole said. "It's been a lot of fun. The fans have been great and

we're really glad we won a lot of races here in Maryland toward the end."

Rapid Redux earned his 19th straight victory at Laurel Park last October 27

to tie Zenyatta and Peppers Pride in the record book for most consecutive

victories by a United States-based runner.

"It is amazing that he stayed sound this long," Wells added. "That has been

the key. Most horses win three or four races then start developing problems.

That didn't happen with him."

The NTRA, Daily Racing Form and the National Turf Writers and

Broadcasters honored Rapid Redux with the Special Eclipse Award for

extraordinary service, individual achievements in, or contributions to the sport

of Thoroughbred racing. He finished 11th in the voting for Horse of the Year

honors with 52 points, which included four first-place votes, despite running in

starter allowance company in 17 of the 19 starts in 2011.

Rapid Redux also earned "Vox Populi Award" honors. The brainchild of

Secretariat's owner, Penny Chenery, Rapid Redux beat Horse of the Year Havre de

Grace, Goldikova and Uncle Mo in the voting by fans.

"David has done a great job," Cole acknowledged. "The horse has gone out on

the playing field and performed flawlessly. He didn't have any bad games and

that is his greatest trait -- his durability and consistency. That is what made

him unforgettable and a record breaker."

Rapid Redux is currently out of training but could make a return this spring.

"We are letting him be quiet for awhile," Cole said. "His last race or two

his final times were off a little. We thought it was best to let him get some

rest and see how he comes back."

Saturday's celebration also included a poster giveaway and an autograph

session with Cole, Wells and primary jockey J.D. Acosta.