In a thrilling display of speed and strategy, the Bill Mott-trained mare Nic’s Style secured a narrow victory in the Grade 3, $165,000 Hurricane Bertie Stakes at Gulfstream Park. This win marks her fourth consecutive triumph and seventh in eight career starts, solidifying her reputation as a formidable competitor. The race saw an intense early pace set by Spirit Wind and R Disaster, but it was Nic’s Style who emerged victorious in the final stretch, driven by jockey Junior Alvarado. Her consistent performance and unwavering determination have made her a fan favorite, with trainer Kenny McCarthy praising her relentless drive to win.
A Race of Strategic Moves
The Hurricane Bertie Stakes showcased not only speed but also strategic racing maneuvers. Initially, Spirit Wind and R Disaster took the lead, setting a blistering pace that left Nic’s Style trailing in third. However, as the race progressed, Nic’s Style found her rhythm and began to close the gap. Jockey Junior Alvarado played a crucial role in positioning Nic’s Style for the final push, ensuring she had clear space on the outside for the decisive move. By the time they entered the stretch, Nic’s Style was ready to unleash her full potential.
As the horses approached the finish line, R Disaster briefly took the lead, but Nic’s Style, with her superior stamina and tactical positioning, overtook her rival in the last moments. Alvarado’s confidence in his mount paid off, as Nic’s Style responded perfectly to his urging. The mare covered the 6½ furlongs in 1:16.53, edging out R Disaster by a neck. This win was a testament to both the horse’s natural ability and the astute handling by her team. The race highlighted the importance of pacing and positioning in high-stakes competitions, where even the smallest details can make all the difference.
A Consistent Champion Emerges
Nic’s Style has established herself as a dominant force in the racing world, particularly at Gulfstream Park, where she now boasts a perfect 3-for-3 record. Her only setback came during a second-place finish in the Gallant Bloom (G2) at Aqueduct last fall. Since then, she has been unstoppable, claiming victories in the Pumpkin Pie at Aqueduct and the City of Ocala and Minaret at Tampa Bay Downs. Each win has further cemented her status as a top-tier competitor.
Trainer Bill Mott and his assistant Kenny McCarthy have praised Nic’s Style for her consistency and unyielding desire to win. McCarthy noted that the mare always gives her best effort, regardless of the competition. This latest victory in the Hurricane Bertie Stakes is not just a personal achievement for Nic’s Style but also a significant milestone for her team. It underscores the importance of preparation, trust, and teamwork in achieving success. As Nic’s Style continues to rack up wins, racing enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating what this remarkable mare will achieve next.