Megans Bluff earned $90,000 for the win, her fifth from 11 career starts. Prior to the Matron, she won the Arlington Oaks (gr. III) by eight lengths. Racing against her elders for the first time, the John Hennig trainee was sent off as the second wagering choice at just under 4-1. She paid $9.60 for the win and led an exacta worth $65.60. She is owned by James C. Routsong. (Chart, Equibase)
Megans Bluff became the second graded stakes winner of the day bred by Kevin G. Pipes when the 3-year-old daughter of Pine Bluff just held on to win the $150,000 Arlington Matron Handicap (gr. III) by a neck Monday at Arlington International. Earlier in the day at Philadelphia Park, Pine Dance, a 3-year-old son of Pine Bluff bred by Pipes, earned a three-length win in the Pennsylvania Derby (gr. III).Over a fast track, Megans Bluff reached the lead after running a half-mile in :47.08, extended that lead on the second turn, and held off a determined On a Soapbox at the wire, completing the 1 1/8 miles in 1:51.41 under Charles Woods Jr. Tutorial finished third, followed by Golden Temper, Diamond White, Lines of Beauty, Bella Chiarra, and Masada.