Drillit anchors Gorham's trio in Miss Ohio Stakes

Drillit has already performed well against stakes company in her nascent career – and against males, no less. The filly now looms a strong threat against her fellow Ohio-bred juvenile fillies as she keys a strong trio for trainer Robert Gorham in the $75,000 Miss Ohio Stakes on Saturday at Thistledown.

Drillit, from the first crop of Grade 1-winning juvenile Drill, won her debut June 23 for owner Mast Thoroughbreds, going the Miss Ohio’s 5 1/2-furlong trip at Thistledown. Leading throughout, she pulled clear in the stretch to win by 8 1/4 lengths, earning a Beyer Speed Figure of 49, the best in the field. She was flattered when runner-up Candy Lane came back to win on July 11 at Thistledown, earning a Beyer of 45. Candy Lane runs in the Miss Ohio as a homebred for Mast and Gorham.

Drillit exited her maiden win to finish second in the $75,000 Hoover Stakes for Ohio-bred juveniles on July 7 at Thistledown, beaten 4 1/2 lengths by Diamond Dust, who is undefeated in his young career. Terry Houghton was aboard Drillit for both her starts, and he keeps the mount on Drillit, the morning-line favorite for the Miss Ohio.

In addition to Drillit and Candy Lane, Gorham will also saddle first-time starter Dolly Dear. The filly is owned by his sister Marion Gorham.

Mari Chuy finished ninth in the Hoover Stakes last out. Recent maiden winner Opulent, maiden Baby Nina, and first-time starter Status Symbol complete the field of seven.