In the $200,000 Strub
Stakes, 7-1 shot Ultimate Eagle romped to a 7 1/4-length victory in his first
start on dirt, with jockey Martin Pedroza stroking his horse's mane as they
crossed the finish line. The 4-year-old colt ran 1 1/8 miles in 1:47.08 and
paid $17, $8.40 and $6.40.
"Without a doubt
this is the best horse (he’s ever ridden)," Pedroza said. "He's
like a freak. Believe me, this horse is just learning how to run."
Baffert's duo of
Jaycito and Prayer for Relief, both owned by Ahmed Zayat, finished 2-3, with
4-5 favorite Tapizar fourth. Jaycito returned $10 and $8.20, while Prayer for
Relief paid $4.20 to show.