Nori Sets Fastest Clocking In La Fiesta QH Derby Trials

ALBUQUERQUE, NM–SEPTEMBER 27, 2024–Grade 1All American Derby finalist Nori bounced off that race to set the fastest qualifying time for the La Fiesta QH Derby on Friday at The Downs in Albuquerque.

The 10 fastest qualifiers from today's four trial races will return to The Downs racetrack on October 20 to contest the $250,000-est. Final at 400 yards.

Jockey Esgar Ramirez rode Nori to a length win over fellow qualifier Trump My Record in the last trial to clock the fastest time of 19.252 seconds, a 98-speed index into a 5 mph crosswind.

Manuel Rodriguez trains the son of leading sire Favorite Cartel for owner-breeder MRB Racing LLC. Bred in New Mexico from the Pyc Paint Your Wagon mare Paint On Canvas, Nori has earned $120,723 in 14 career starts. He was third in the Rainbow Juvenile Stakes at 2.

CLICK HERE for a complete La Fiesta QH Derby finalists list, with times, sires, dams, owners, breeders, trainers, and jockeys.

Live racing at Albuquerque returns tomorrow with a nine-race card. The first post is at 6:05 p.m. (MDT).