Caressing, took the lead around the second turn and held off a late challenge by Gal on the Go. The winner, ridden by Rene Douglas, covered the 1 1/8 miles in 1:50.74 and paid $4.60, $2.80, and $2.40. The winning exacta combination paid $13.40.
"She was very focused," Douglas said. "(Trainer David Vance) told me to try and keep her on the outside, but when I took her inside at one point she didn't hesitate at all."
Gal on the Go paid $3.00 and $2.40. She finished 3 1/2 lengths ahead of Scoop, who paid $3.40. Morning Sun, Northwest Colors, Supreme Song, Dancin Emi, and C Millie completed the order of finish on a fast track.
The win is the first for last year's champion 2-year-old filly since she won her sophomore debut. She earned $75,000 for her fifth win in nine career starts. Caressing (Honour and Glory--Lovin Touch, by Majestic Prince) was bred in Kentucky by Brereton C. Jones. (Chart, Equibase)
