Indian Firewater Ends Losing Streak

Favored Indian Firewater led throughout to win the $58,900 Nashville Stakes Thursday at Hollywood Park.

Ending a nine race losing streak, the 3-year-old Indian Charlie colt and the Touch Gold mare Touched had a clear lead early in the stretch, then held off Paris Vegas to win by a half-length.

Owned by Mike Pegram, Karl Watson and Paul Weitman and trained by Bob Baffert, Indian Firewater covered the 7 ½ furlongs in 1:29.65. The victory was the second in 12 starts for the Kentucky bred, who was purchased for $400,000 as a yearling at the Keeneland September 2008 sale.

Ridden by Joel Rosario, Indian Firewater paid $5, $3.20 and $2.40. Paris Vegas, who was making his California debut for trainer Fabrice Chappet, returned $5.80 and $3.40. The gray, who trailed for the opening half mile, finished 3 1/4 lengths in front of Thomas Baines. The show price on Thomas Baines, who had won his two previous starts against $62,500 claimers at Del Mar, was $2.80.

Indian Firewater, whose only other victory came against maidens Sept. 7, 2009 at Del Mar, has now earned $137,920.

Leothelion, making his first start as a gelding, was fourth, 2 ¾ lengths behind Thomas Baines, then came Gallant Gent and Our Minesweeper.

There were 12 perfect tickets in the Pick Six. Each was worth $36,862. An additional $616,692 was wagered Thursday chasing a carryover from Sunday of $99,993.