Distance perfect for 'Amethyst'

AUBURN, Wash. - Seven evenly matched fillies and mares, each eligible to be claimed for $30,000, vie at six furlongs in Friday's feature race at Emerald Downs. Star Amethyst may be a slight favorite off her affinity for the six-furlong distance.

Star Amethyst, a 5-year-old daughter of Slewdledo from the barn of trainer Steve Bullock, has won half of her 10 tries at six furlongs, including a score over $32,000 optional claiming company here on May 13. She has subsequently finished off the board in a pair of 6 1/2-furlong tries against $40,000 optional claiming foes, but she figures to appreciate both the class relief and the return to her favorite distance on Friday. Regular rider Kevin Krigger retains the mount.

Carrie's a Jewel outfinished Star Amethyst when they met on June 3, running fourth to her rival's fifth going 6 1/2 furlongs. She has not raced since, but she is probably good enough to win if she retains her edge. Carrie's a Jewel won 2 of 5 outings here last season, downing $25,000 and $40,000 optional claiming company in sprints. Trainer Junior Coffey has named Kevin Radke to ride.

Also dangerous is Oh Yes I Am, a 4-year-old from the barn of trainer Bill Tollet who has not finished worse than second in three starts at the meeting. Oh Yes I Am ran second to $25,000 optional claiming company at 6 1/2 furlongs on July 8 and is another who might appreciate the return to six furlongs.