Sunland Park Racetrack and Casino
Sunday, April 21, 2019
Performance Review rallies to win $75,000 Neon Desert Handicap
Judge Lanier Racing’s Performance Review benefited from a fast early pace, rallying on the outside under jockey Santiago Gonzalez to post a mild upset score in Sunday’s $75,000 Neon Desert Handicap at Sunland Park Racetrack and Casino.
The 6-year-old Kentucky-bred mare by Eskendereya took advantage of a wicked pace duel, set up by the front-running tactics of Baydar and jockey Alfredo Juarez, Jr., who dueled with Harking and Super Humor through an opening half-mile of 45.88 seconds.
Baydar put away her rivals entering the lane, but couldn’t hold off the late rally from Performance Review, who was sent off at odds of 10.60-to-1. She inched clear in deep stretch to win by 2 lengths, crossing the wire in a final time of 1 minute, 16.43 seconds for the 6½ furlong distance in earning her first stakes triumph. Last time out, she was a well-beaten third in the Harry Henson Handicap on March 24.
Performance Review improves her lifetime record to 4 wins from 11 career starts. She has amassed career earnings topping $110,500. Each of her career victories have occurred at Sunland Park. Her winning backers were rewarded with a $23.20 return on their $2 investment.
Baydar managed to save the place, nearly two lengths clear of the rest of the field and ensuring an $1 exacta return of $55.40. Kram, sent off as the 5-to-2 post time favorite, finished well enough for the show under jockey Roimes Chirinos, more than three lengths clear of fourth place finisher Victim of Love with Ry Eikleberry aboard.
Live racing resumes Tuesday with a first post time of 12:50 p.m.
Photo courtesy of Coady Photography