Naval Laughter held off the late bid of Joy Epifora to win the G3 Modesty Stakes by a half-length at Arlington Park July 17.
Not only was the four-year-old Midshipman filly making her Graded Stakes debut, she also was trying the turf for the first time. Neither proved to be an obstacle as she improved her record to two wins, a second and a third-place finish in just four career starts.
Settled in a stalking position early by jockey Sophie Doyle, Naval Laughter began her winning move on the far turn, swinging wide while zeroing on the leading duo of Two Sixtyone and Family Way. Set down for the drive by Doyle, Naval Laughter overhauled the leaders in deep stretch, then held off the late challenge from Joy Epifora to win by a determined half-length.
Bred in Kentucky by her owner, Two Hearts Farm LLC, Naval Laughter is out of the Medaglia d’Oro mare, In Stitches, a full sister to Lady Montdore, winner of the G2 Glens Falls Stakes. In Stitches is also a half-sister to G2-placed Frosteria (by Frosted). Second dam Hystericalady was a multiple Graded Stakes winner during her racing career, taking home top honors in such races as the G1 Humana Distaff and G2 Delaware Handicap.
Midshipman’s 17% Black Type horses from starters continues to be among the best in the business. In addition to Naval Laughter, other top performers this year include Royal Ship, winner of the G2 Californian; Averly Jane, winner of the Kentucky Juvenile Stakes and Navy Armed Guard, winner of the Listed All American Stakes.
