Crystal Quest takes $110,000 Equistaff Sophomore Turf S. in black-type debut

Live Oak Plantation’s homebred Crystal Quest came from fifth with a furlong to run to capture the $110,000 Equistaff Sophomore Turf S. March 24 at Tampa Bay Downs.

The 3-year-old colt, who was making his stakes debut, had won both a maiden and allowance race leading up to Sunday’s contest.

Out of the gate well but in no rush, Crystal Quest settled well back of Prevent, who sprinted to the lead and was up some five lengths on the field after a half-mile in :47.85. That margin began to shrink going into the final turn, with Crystal Quest going five-wide around the bend. After straightening for home, the bay colt found his best stride in deep stretch and flew by the field to win under a hand ride.

The final time for the 1 1/16-miles on the firm turf was a very good 1:41.86.

Crystal Quest has won three of his four starts and earned $122,830. Trained by Michael Trombetta, he is a son of Uncle Mo out of Giant Crystal and is a half-brother to two-time stakes winner American Giant. Giant Crystal is a half-sister to Grade 1 winner Gemologist.