Calder: Empire Builder prevails in Mambo Meister

MIAMI - Empire Builder avenged his recent setback at the hands of Csaba, outlasting that rival by a half-length in Saturday's $55,000 Mambo Meister Stakes at Calder. The Mambo Meister was decided over a fast main track after originally being carded on the turf.

Csaba, the prohibitive 1-5 favorite coming off a 5 3/4-length allowance victory over Empire Builder on May 12, was ultimately disqualified and placed third for interfering with Musical Flair on the far turn.

Empire Builder, a 3-year-old son of Kitten's Joy, circled the leaders and drew off to a long lead before narrowly withstanding Csaba's final surge. It was another five lengths further back to Musical Flair, who recovered to cross the finish line third after being steadied sharply when put in tight along the inside fence while within easy striking distance of the leaders on the turn.

Empire Builder was ridden to victory by Jonathan Gonzales for trainer Luis Duco and paid $17.80.