Mr Innovator, a 2-year-old grey gelding, broke on top and never looked back in winning the $280,371 Mountain Top New Mexico-Bred Futurity Sunday afternoon at Ruidoso Downs Race Track.

“When he broke like he did, I knew that we were going to roll,”  said jockey Mario Delgado. “He has been so impressive from the start even when we were breaking him. He’s a special horse that continues to improve every trip.”

It is Mr Innovator’s third consecutive win since starting at Remington Park with a maiden victory in the spring. He paid $3.80, $3.00 and $2.40 today covering the 350-yards in a time of :17.436 seconds for trainer James Gonzales and owner Cody Cobb. The horse had the fastest time in the Mountain Top Futurity trials, running :17.859 seconds winning his trial heat on June 4th.

James and Cody were friends growing up in Midland, Texas, and have worked during Cody’s private purchase of the gelding from its breeder, Mikkelson Racing last fall.

“We’ll discuss our options going forward, but right now he’s headed to the Zia Futurity,” said Cobb. “That’s where we’re pointing, and then we might take a look at the All American if the horse continues to show his abilities.”

Racing continues next Friday, Saturday and Sunday at Ruidoso Downs with the Mountain Top TB Futurity and the Rita Danley Distaff Stakes being featured on Saturday’s card. Post time is 1:00 PM each day.

For more information about the upcoming 2021 racing schedule or to reserve your tickets and plan your visit, go to RaceRuidoso.com.