Aragorn wins Oak Tree Derby

ARCADIA, Calif. - Aragorn won his U.S. stakes debut in Saturday's $150,000 , but had to survive a steward's inquiry to keep the victory.

Aragorn ($9.20) finished a nose in front of Eastern Sand, running 1 1-8 miles on turf in 1:46.48. The stewards inquired into a bumping incident between the two in the final furlong, ruling that any contact did not affect the order of finish.

Aragorn ($9.20) was ridden by Patrick Valenzuela for trainer Neil Drysdale.

Brecon Beacon, a 19-1 shot finished third in the field of seven 3-year-olds. Osidy, the 8-5 favorite finished fourth. Willow O Wisp, the morning-line favorite was scratched because of illness.

Aragorn has won 2 of 7 starts and $120,725 for owner-breeders Ballygallon Stud. The colt was stakes-placed in England in May.