Bully Bones repeats in Mesa Handicap

Bully Bones returned to Turf Paradise from her Southern California base and successfully defended her title in the $45,000 Mesa Handicap.

Ridden by Miguel Hernandez, who was subbing for originally named Isiais Enriquez, Bully Bones ($7.40) sat just off the pace, took command at the top of the lane in the 6 1/2-furlong dirt race for fillies and mares, and drew clear to easily beat the speedy Wild English Rose by three lengths. It was another 3 1/4 lengths back to 2-1 favorite Evening Escort.

Bully Bones, owned by trained by David La Croix, ran the distance in 1:15.88. She has won 5 of 11 starts and $230,086.