Rob An Plunder Holds Off Favored Bruho for Graduation Stakes Victory at Del Mar

Rob An Plunder withstood the stretch drive of favored Bruho, then drew off for a 2 3/4-length victory in the $64,200 Graduation Stakes for California-bred 2-year-olds Wednesday at Del Mar.

Prominent from the start of the six-furlong dash, Rob An Plunder took command on the stretch turn and responded to Chris McCarron’s urging. Bold Bryn was another six lengths back in third place.

Rob An Plunder was timed in 1:08 4/5, just one-fifth slower than the stakes mark set by Inverness Drive in 1968. The son of Pirate’s Bounty and Lace Pillow paid $17.00, $3.40 and $2.10. His second victory in four career starts was worth $37,200.

Bruho, with Gary Stevens aboard, paid $2.20 and $2.10. Bold Bryn, under Bill Shoemaker, returned $2.10.