Photo: patlangphoto.com
Metropolitan Man, a two-year-old gelded son of Hook and Ladder, turned his 4 ½ -furlong debut against seven rivals last Thursday at Keeneland into a laugher, springing out of the gate, sprinting to an early lead, and drawing 7 ¼ lengths away from the field by the finish.
Trained by Wesley Ward, known for excellent preparation of youngsters, and owned by Ward in partnership with Patrick Costello, Metropolitan Man had seven published works going into his debut, the last two being 3-furlong bullets (:35 and :34 3/5). First choice in the wagering at even money, he clocked a quarter in 22.33 and a half in 44.83. The final time for the race was 50.97.
Metropolitan Man was bred by Betty Powell, Len Powell and Peter Venaglia. Out of the Tabasco Cat mare Hasty Cat, he is a half brother to stakes-winning Sezzana ($114,725) and multiple stakes-placed Piquante Cat ($146,718), both New York-breds by New York-based sire Performing Magic (standing at Sugar Maple Farm.). All three of Hasty Cat’s foals to start have won. Hook and Ladder stands for Sequel Stallions at Keane Stud.
