Dubai Majesty outruns rivals in Franklin County

LEXINGTON, Ky. - Dubai Majesty, with Jamie Theriot aboard, got a perfect stalking trip from just behind front-running Libor Lady before moving along to a 1 1/4-length victory Friday in the $116,700 Franklin County Stakes over a soft Keeneland turf course.

Sent away the favorite in a field of 11 fillies and mares, Dubai Majesty returned $6.20 after finishing 5 1/2 furlongs in 1:03.64. Nadeshiko finished third, another 8 1/4 lengths back.

Libor Lady held an open lead for most of the way, but Dubai Majesty always had her in her sights, and after angling out for the drive, she edged clear leaving the furlong pole.

"She's relaxing a bit more on the grass," said Theriot.

Dubai Majesty, owned by the Martin Racing Stable LLC and Dan Morgan, is trained by Bret Calhoun, who has become known for his work with the male turf sprinters, Chamberlain Bridge and Mr. Nightlinger. A 4-year-old Florida-bred by Essense of Dubai, Dubai Majesty has now won 8 of 23 career starts and earned $491,477.

Canadian Ballet, the morning-line favorite, was an early scratch.