When the lights came on, Handsome Mike filly had what it takes

In her first seven career starts, Do What It Takes didn’t have what it takes, with just one second and one third to her credit. Then, the lights came on and the daughter of Handsome Mike has responded with a record of 2-1-3-1 in her last seven tries.

Victory No. 2 came yesterday at Tampa Bay Downs with Antonio Gallardo in the saddle. The 3-year-old filly bred in New York by Joe and Helen Barbazon broke well from the 11 post in the six-furlong race and Gallardo had her tucked in third down the backstretch. He moved her after a half and a strong stretch run resulted in a neck victory in 1:11.93. A $10,000 OBS April purchase, Do What It Takes is now 2-2-4 in 14 starts with earnings of $32,370.