The third choice in the wagering, Whata Brainstorm returned $10.60, $4, and $2.80. Subtle Power paid $3 and $2.20. Craigsteel was worth $2.40 to show. The winning exacta combination returned $31.60. (Chart, Equibase)
Whata Brainstorm saved ground along the hedge under jockey John Velazquez before swinging out for the stretch run en route to winning Sunday's $250,000 Pan American Handicap (gr. IIT) on a firm turf course at Gulfstream Park. Whata Brainstorm completed the 1 1/2 miles in 2:23.75 -- three-fifths of a second off the course record -- after running the final quarter-mile in :23.75.Subtle Power finished another 2 1/2 lengths back in second, 2 1/4 lengths in front of pacesetter Craigsteel. Drama Critic missed third-place money by a head and was followed by Thesaurus, A Little Luck, and Grand Finale.Whata Brainstorm (Honor Grades -- What a Future, by Roberto) was bred in Florida by Fred Hooper. The 4-year-old colt avenged his second-place finish to Subtle Power in last month's Gulfstream Park Breeders' Cup Handicap (gr. IT) in earning his first win since a 1 3/4-length triumph in the Calder Derby (gr. IIIT) in October. Whata Brainstorm earned owners John Eaton and Steve Laymon $150,000 for the win, his sixth in 22 starts. Whata Brainstorm is trained by James Picou.