Trainer William Connelly saddled his 1,000th career winner July 17 at Ellis Park when Button Dancer romped to victory in the first race.
Sent off as the even-money favorite in a $30,000 maiden claiming event at 5 1/2 furlongs, Button Dancer took the lead with a quarter-mile to run and drew off for an eight-length win. Leandro Goncalves was aboard. A 4-year-old chestnut filly by Runaway Groom, Button Dancer is owned by Button Down Racing.
The victory was the first of the Ellis Park meet for Connelly, who is based at Churchill Downs.