Strauss would have loved to orchestrate this Fledermaus score

The English translation of Johann Strauss II’s operetta Die Fledermaus is ‘The Bat,’ but the 4-year-old gelding Fledermaus looked more like a golden hawk as he broke his maiden in style at Tampa Bay Downs yesterday.

The 4-year-old Treasure Beach gelding had been threatening in recent tries, including a streak of four straight seconds, but this time he was not to be denied. With top rider Antonio Gallardo in the irons, Fledermaus wasn’t affected by a switch from the grass to a mile and 40 yards on the main track. Following a perfect stalking trip in third place, he swept into the lead at the quarter pole and cruised to the wire four lengths in front.

Fledermaus became Treasure Beach’s 17th winner this year and earned a winner’s check of $8,090 plus a breeder’s award for Glen View Oaks.