AU Miner repeats in Greenwood Cup

For the second straight year, A. U. Miner earned an automatic berth in the Breeders' Cup Marathon at Churchill Downs by winning the Greenwood Cup Stakes July 16 at Parx Racing.

Ridden by Calvin Borel for trainer Clark Hanna and owner Don L. Benge, A. U. Miner was at the rear of the eight-horse field before going around rivals on the far turn. The 6-year-old son of Mineshaft took the lead while four wide entering the stretch and drew off under a drive to win by 3 ½ lengths as 7-2 second choice. The final time for 1 1/2 miles was 2:30.30.

Birdrun, the 11-10 favorite under Rajiv Marah, led after 1 1/4 miles was completed and held second by a neck over Afleet Again. The winner paid $8.80, $3.20, 2.80, with Birdrun worth $2.60 and $2.10, and Afleet Again $3.