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Graziano wins the $15,000 Equine Insurance Services Speed Stake at Fidelity

September 9, 2025

Bright skies and drying breezes saved the day on Sunday at the Fidelity Investments Jumper Classic, even though more than five inches of rain fell during the night. The first rider of the day, Darren Graziano, in the first class of the day, the $15,000 Equine Insurance Services Speed Stake Presented by Great American, had the lead from the get-go and never looked back.

“I wasn’t sure if it was a go or no go,” he said, but the morning brought good news for the field of 25 riders. Being first in the lineup was a bonus for Darren. “The best part about going first is you get the best ground after it rains that much,” he said. His mount Allure was fast - the time to beat was set at 58.895. “She’s a good mare and I know her quite well. We’re in our third year together and I’m much more confident going a little bit faster.”

Confidence and experience paid off, especially at jump four on the Linda Allen-designed course, which required a tight turn and a close up look at the crowd. The double combination added faults to a number of rides. “Going back to the double combination we really stayed wide. When the ground is soft or treacherous my mare is very careful and nervous. I hold out and give her a little extra room.”

It took 12 more rides till another competitor came close to his time. Victoria Birdsall, riding Jerremy, was less than a second behind at 59.246. The pair was also fifth in Saturday’s $15,000 Mohegan Sun Derby.

Kevin Babington, who had multiple rides during the five days of competition, was the 20th to go, and rode Lotus to third place with a time of 59.515. Babington celebrated a first place score in one of the young jumper classes earlier in the week.

Graziano and Allure also won a Level 6 class with 33 entries this week. The mare had Saturday off to rest for the Speed Stake. Back in 2005, the pair won the $5,000 Herb Chambers Mercedes Benz Speed Stake. They have since gained notoriety this year for being on the advertising billboards and tickets for the Fidelity Investments Jumper Classic.

For more information visit www.jumperclassic.com or call 978-283-7708.

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