There was an upbeat feeling at Graham Motion’s barn Sunday
morning, the day after 4-year-old filly Silver Reunion returned to the
races after 10 months off and finished an excellent second, beaten just a
half-length by winner Dynaslew in the Ballston Spa.
The effort, under jockey Rajiv Maragh, was even more
impressive considering Silver Reunion broke through the gate before the start
and then set a solid pace. She dug in when confronted by Dynaslew and fought to
the wire.
“I think she’s a Grade 1 filly,” said Motion assistant John
Panagot. “The jock said she was off the bridle the whole time on the backside
and didn’t even pick it up until he shook her.”
Panagot said no race had been picked out for Silver Reunion,
who is owned by Brereton Jones, but “we’ll keep her eligible for everything.
“Rajiv was adamant that if she didn’t break through the
gate, she wins,” Panagot said.