Today, Post Time faced off against his longtime rival, Barbadian Runner, in the final race of his storied career at Laurel Park, clinching victory in the $100,000 Robert T. Manfuso Stakes. This highly anticipated rematch between Maryland’s top contenders was filled with the thrilling anticipation of a cinematic showdown.
For ten weeks, Post Time’s team had been eager for a rematch after finishing second to Barbadian Runner at the Maryland Million Classic, which ended Post Time’s impressive 11-race winning streak and delayed his retirement. Owner Ellen Charles and trainer Brittany Russell felt he deserved a final shot at redemption.
Jockey Sheldon Russell, Brittany’s husband, reflected on the Maryland Million loss, saying it remained vividly in his mind. The race was a dreamlike spectacle featuring the energetic gray Post Time, crowned 2024 Maryland Horse of the Year, against the steady and accomplished Barbadian Runner, who has earned nearly $800,000 under AJ Wilwyn Stables and trainer Henry Walters.
Unlike the Classic, Post Time was steady at the start and positioned confidently behind his competitors. Sheldon described his horse’s unique quirks, noting how Post Time almost flinched at the gate but then settled into his own pace. Through the backstretch, Post Time stayed tight near the rail while Teaching Terrorise led at a moderate pace, with Barbadian Runner just ahead inside.
As they entered the homestretch, both horses intensified their efforts. Barbadian Runner briefly took the lead but Post Time skillfully maneuvered three wide, breaking through and crossing the finish line 1¼ lengths ahead with a time of 1:44.54 for the 1 1/16 mile, leaving Pavilly far behind in third place.
The race stirred deep emotions, with jockey Boyce, who rode Barbadian Runner to second place, congratulating the winner. In the winner’s circle, trainer Brittany Russell tearfully reflected on her bond with Post Time, praising his unique spirit and the lessons he taught her throughout his career.
Post Time’s owner, Ellen Charles, shared that she had contemplated selling the horse before the race but was convinced otherwise after reviewing his pedigree, which interestingly connects to historic figure Marjorie Merriweather Post. Post Time, a son of Frosted, will start stud duties at Northview Stallion Station next year, with a stud fee of $4,000.
As the celebrations wound down, Northview’s general manager, David Wade, informed assistant trainer Emma Wolfe that Post Time would soon relocate to his new home in Chesapeake City, Maryland.
Fan Take: This thrilling farewell win for Post Time not only celebrates a remarkable champion but also highlights the deep emotional connections in horse racing. For fans, it’s a reminder of the sport’s rich stories and the promise that new generations of horses will carry forward the legacy.
