Earle I. Mack's Savedbythelight ended a four-race losing streak and became a graded stakes winner in the process Saturday, winning the 134th running of the $112,100 Ladies Handicap (gr. III) by three lengths over Queen's Triomphe. The Ladies is the final graded stakes in New York for 2003.Winless since taking Belmont Park's Sands Point Handicap back on June 15, Savedbythelight and jockey Richard Migliore hit the wire in 2:05 4/5 for the 1 1/4-mile Ladies 'Cap.The winner sat chilly off the right flank of City Fire's early pace of :23 1/5; :51 and 1:15 4/5, then sprang to life in the stretch and spirited away from the field. "On the first turn, they went :25 3/5. The filly that was in front (City Fire) was supposed to be in front and I was happy," said trainer Richard Violette Jr. "Richie (Migliore) rode a great race. She was right where she was supposed to be. Right now, we're going to have to discuss whether we are going to breed her. She is scheduled to be bred to (2003 Belmont Stakes winner) Empire Maker, but she could still improve."A daughter of Saint Ballado, Savedbythelight improved to 3-2-4 from 11 starts.
"We had a great trip," Migliore said. "My hat is off to (trainer) Rick Violette. She was as well-trained as a horse could be. She was still in the bridle at the top of the stretch, and to have that much horse for that long is a credit to Rick. He really had the screws tightened. She finished up great. It would be nice for her to go home and be a `Mommy,' but for myself and Rick, I hope she stays around."Queen's Triomphe, who sat a stalking third, salvaged the place by a head over Retroactive. Sent off as the 9-2 third choice in the field of 10, Savedbythelight paid $11, $6 and $4. Queen's Triomphe returned $9 and $5.80. Retroactive's show was $3.40.
The victory was worth $67,260, improving Savedbythelight's career bankroll to $312,504.Completing the order of finish were Julie's Prize, favored Caught in the Rain, Consort Music, City Fire, Lady Liberty, Call an Audible and the Irish-bred Kabyia. Sabre of Silver was scratched.(Chart, Equibase)
