Krampus held off odds-on favorite Breaking the Rules through a terrific stretch drive to capture the Grade 3, $150,000 Canadian Turf for grass milers on Saturday at Gulfstream Park in what winning trainer Bill Mott likely hopes is a preview of coming attractions.

Mott trains Hidden Scroll, who is favored in the Fountain of Youth later today.

Krampus ($11.60) sat second behind leader Siem Riep during the first six furlongs of the race. He edged to the front turning into the lane but was immediately tackled by Breaking the Rules, who had been sitting off Krampus throughout. They traded volleys through a furious final quarter in 22.55 seconds, with Krampus prevailing by about a head in 1:34.98 on the firm course.

Holiday Stone was third in a field reduced to six by the scratch of Sand Dancer.

John Velazquez rode Krampus, who is owned and was bred by William Schettine.

Krampus, 5, is a gelding by Shakespeare. He has now won five times in 13 starts. This was his first stakes win. He is 2 for 2 with Velazquez, who rode Krampus to a starter-allowance win in October 2017.