Totaly Wild led through the first five furlongs before being overtaken by Madame X Ski. 23-10 favorite Madame X Ski built a half-length advantage over Totaly Wild at the stretch call, but a resurgent Totaly Wild fought back to earn the win."That was the bionic left hand," said Lopez. "He (Norberto Arroyo Jr., who rode Madame X Ski) could have closed the door on me at anytime but he didn't. It was great effort from her coming back like that."Madame X Ski was second in the 11-horse field, finishing 3 1/2 lengths ahead of Sideways. Short Note came home fourth, followed by Dancing Blues, True Sensation, Catalita, Lucky Sucre, Treasure Coast Gem, Dish It to Me, and With a Little Luck.
Totaly Wild (Wild Again--Almost Shy, by Blushing John), carrying 116 pounds, covered the mile and 70 yards in 1:43.40 on the fast track to earn $50,940 for owner-trainer Anthony Dutrow. In her most recent start prior to the Busanda, Totaly Wild finished fourth in a Dec. 30 allowance race won by Madame X Ski. The winner was bred in Kentucky by Marilyn and Edward Seltzer and William Allen.
The winner returned $22.80, $10, and $5.40. Madame X Ski paid $5.40 and $3.20 and Sideways showed at $2.90. (Chart, Equibase)