Not This Time's Nearly Rolls In Optional Claimer At Gulfstream

Gulfstream winner Nearly targets Kentucky Derby trail

Centennial Farms’ promising 3-year-old colt Nearly may have punched his ticket to the $250,000 Holy Bull (G3) next month, putting away favored Confessional in mid-stretch and pulling clear to a five-length victory in Friday’s feature at Gulfstream Park. A $350,000 son of Not This Time, Nearly ($4.60) covered seven furlongs over a fast main track under Hall of Fame jockey John Velazquez in 1:22.88 to register his second straight victory at Gulfst…

Not This Time's Nearly Rolls In Optional Claimer At Gulfstream

Nearly (Not This Time), who could make the starting gate for the GIII Holy Bull Stakes at Gulfstream Park Jan. 31, was well-beaten on debut during the Belmont At The Big A meet Oct. 26. Shipping to South Florida to face state breds, the dark bay won by an eye-catching 9 1/4 lengths Nov. 22. Tabbed as the 6-5 second choice after the pre-race scratch of intended favorite Mob (Gun Runner), Nearly was bumped hard by Confessional (Essential Quality) …