Kantharos’ Mr. Jordan very impressive in Smooth Air S.
Saturday, November 29, 2014
Mr. Jordan established himself as one of Florida’s most exciting 2015 Kentucky Derby (G1) prospects with yet another dominating victory in Saturday’s $75,000 Smooth Air S. at Gulfstream Park.

The 2-year-old Kantharos colt is the leading runner for his sire, who is Florida’s leading first-crop stallion.

Making his first start around two turns, Mr. Jordan faced a stiff test early as he battled head-to-head with Juan and Bina through six furlongs in 1:13.13. From that point, though, it was all Mr. Jordan, who poured it on in the stretch to win by 4 ½-lengths in a very good 1:39.54 for the mile.

“It was impressive. He ran a big, big race. He answered a question about distance. No question about it,” winning trainer Eddie Plesa, Jr. said. “The way he did it – (rider) Gabe (Saez) never touched him with the stick. He did it all on his own. 

“I have to be happy with everything he’s done and achieved thus far, but there are going to be a lot better horses for him to run at in the future,” Plesa continued. “Right now it bodes well for everything he’s done. He’s done everything we’ve asked of him. It’s exciting.” 

Prior to Saturday’s win, Mr. Jordan broke his maiden by more than six lengths at Monmouth on Sept. 14 and scored a handy 3-length victory in the Juvenile Sprint for Florida-bred juveniles at Gulfstream Park West on Nov. 8.

“I don’t know which races they will be. It could be the one-turn mile (the $100,000 Mucho Macho Man S. on Jan. 3). It could be his first race. I’m not sure. We’ll get him back to the barn and see how he comes out of this race, and go from there.”

Mr. Jordan has earned $139,215 for owners David Melin, Leon Ellman and Plesa’s wife Laurie. 

Stallion Roster