Johnny Whip Takes TRAO Classic Sprint

Johnny Whip
Johnny Whip
Johnny Whip * Photo by Coady Photography

George W. Straw Jr.’s Johnny Whip earned his first career stakes victory on April 9 in the $55,000 TRAO Classic Sprint Stakes for Oklahoma-bred colts and geldings. Ridden by Benny Landeros and trained by Jody Pruitt, the 4-year-old gelding by Stephen Got Even scored by two lengths and traveled six furlongs in 1:10.08.

Johnny Whip, who was bred by Robert Zoellner of Rockin’ Z Ranch out of the Seeking the Gold mare Paradisa, has been remarkable consistent throughout his career with a record of 19-7-4-3 and earnings of $148,006. The gelding finished third in last year’s Jim Thorpe and Tishomingo Stakes at Remington Park.

Okie Ride, the 2-5 favorite, finished second for breeder/owner Richter Family Trust. The Candy Ride (Arg) gelding has earned nearly $400,000 in his career with five stakes victories, including the Silver Goblin and Oklahoma Classics Sprint last year. Luis Quinonez rode the 6-year-old for trainer Kenneth Nolen.

Keith Hooker and Lyn Aldridge’s Ransom Roberto, by Rojo Dinero, closed to take third for trainer Wilson Brown and jockey Miguel Perez.

Agent crossed the wire fourth, followed by Rite to Rule, Stickrossmountain, Ferdie Mac and Bullcreekroad.