Stay Thirsty thrills in G1 Cigar Mile

Stay Thirsty certainly went out on top November 24 in his final career start by posting a thrilling victory in the G1 Cigar Mile at Aqueduct. It was the second G1 win for the son of Bernardini, who impressed in the G1 Travers Stakes as a three-year-old.

Settling patiently in behind horses in fourth in the one mile event, Stay Thirsty began to make his move at the top of the lane. He swung to the outside and charged down the lane to nail Breeders' Cup victress Groupie Doll in the final strides.

Bred by John D Gunther and John Darren Gunther, Stay Thirsty is out of Marozia, by Storm Bird. He is a half-brother to G3 winner Andromeda's Hero and Stakes winner/G1-placed Superfly. In addition to the G1 Travers, Stay Thirsty also won the G2 Jim Dandy Stakes and G3 Gotham Stakes at three.

Stay Thirsty represents Bernardini's talented first crop of runners, with four G1 winners and eight G1 horses including multiple G1 winner To Honor And Serve. His second crop certainly followed suit, with another G1 Travers winner in Alpha this summer. Out of the G1-winning Quiet American mare Cara Rafaela, Bernardini will stand the upcoming breeding season for $150,000.