Royal Delta Takes Off in Black-Eyed Susan

Royal Delta sat the right stalking trip and burst through along the inside to win Friday's Grade 2 Black-Eyed Susan Stakes from Pimlico Race Course. 

The Black-Eyed Susan field was reduced to five following the defection of Coax Liberty. As expected, Hot Summer set sail for the lead and the fractions were a solid :23.22 and :46.26. The ealny leader was hounded throughout by Wyomia and Buster's Ready.

Hot Summer opened up a two-length lead after six furlongs in 1:10.44 but Ramon Dominguez had to get after her to maintain her advantage. At this point Royal Delta, sitting chilly in 4th, began to get involved and got a dream run along the inside.

Royal Delta angled out and quickly struck the front in the lane. Buster's Ready took up the chase after passing a tired Hot Summer but nobody was threatening the winner this day.

Trained by Bill Mott and ridden by Jose Lezcano, Royal Delta crossed the line 2-1/2 lengths in front and paid $5.60 as the betting favorite. She completed her nine furlong journey in 1:49.60.

Buster's Ready was clearly second best for John Velazquez and Todd Pletcher. Hot Summer easily held the show and was followed by Love Theway Youare and Wyomia.