NUCLEAR Bomb exploded behind Pabs Cabalejo's masterful riding to win the first leg of the prestigious Triple Crown series at the San Lazaro Business and Leisure Park in Carmona, Cavite, over the weekend.

Sired by Oh Oh Seven out of Ha       yley Rebecca, Nuclear Bomb left the rest of the field eating dirt in the last 250 meters to rule the 1,600-meter rain-drenched race in one minute and 40 seconds (quarter times 24-24-24-27).

Nuclear Bomb gave his connections—owner Gabriel Gaerlan and trainer Conrado "Dodek" Vicente—the top prize of P2.1-million, with War Cannon settling for the P700,000 second place prize.

"I knew the victory was there when we got past War Cannon starting from the final 500 meters," said Cabalejo, who rode his first Triple Crown race. "I'm so happy with this win that I cannot describe the way I feel."

Liquid Gold kept the pace early, but faded amid the blistering run Nuclear Bomb and War Cannon set. In the end, the race was reduced to a battle between the eventual top two finishers with Nuclear Bomb flashing the form that won for his connection last month's Road to the Triple Crown.

Late-charging Kevlar came in third for P350,000 and Kaparkan Falls salvaged fourth for P17,000. Rounding out the money list were Stayinthemoment (P105,000) and Hook On D Run (P70,000).

Alay Sa Atleta, an organization supporting the country's para athletes, donated the prizes.

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