Ladytrix commands Hopeful

After stablemates Ladytrix and The Isle of Pan both distinguished themselves in Yonkers Raceway's Hopeful Pacing Series preliminary competition, their driver Stephan Bouchard had a decision to make going into Friday night's $44,700 final for 3-year-old fillies. He chose Ladytrix, and he chose wisely as Ladytrix Ladytrix parlayed an easy lead and soft fractions into a 1:58.4 victory.

Leaving from post position four Ladytrix stepped around pylon-sitting Dexagon (Steve Smith) in and out of the first turn. Blissfull Jessie (Pat Lachance) was away third. Makin' a Statement (Pat Berry) left from post six, but was forced to take a seat fourth.

All the while the Western Ideal filly led the field through a :28.4 opening quarter, then a :59.3 half. That :30.4 second panel all but ended the suspense, much to the dismay of Makin a Statment, who made her second move coming first-over.

The Isle of Pan (Greg Grismore) wound up second-up, but did not seem to handle the turns well.

After a 1:28.1 three quarters Ladytrix opened a three-length lead on the field turning for home. She finished off her foes by 1 3/4 lengths.

Blissfull Jessie was second, outmuscling Dexagon. The Isle of Pan and Final Renee (Tony Morgan) earned the final pay checks.

For Ladytrix, who went 2-for-3 in series trials, it was her third victory in four seasonal starts. Linda Toscano traines the winner for co-owners Stake Your Claim Stable 4 and Linwood Higgins.

"Both horses raced well in the series," Bouchard said. "It was a tough decision, but (Ladytrix) drew a bit better and I knew I could make the lead. Once I did, she didn't get any pressure.

"It's nice to pick the right one," he said. "Everyone always reminds you when you don't."

A $20,000 Hopeful consolation went to Allikait Fighter (Larry Stalbaum), who authored a 19-1 upset in 2:00.2. (Yonkers)

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