Falling Sky asserts his class in Levine

A trip to Parx Racing certainly perked up Falling Sky.

A multiple Grade 3 winner, Falling Sky owned the class credentials to be a major player in the $100,000 Donald Levine Memorial Handicap on Saturday. The bettors agreed, making the 4-year-old colt trained by George Weaver the 2-1 second choice.

The major concern was his recent form: double-digit losses in a pair of Grade 2 stakes following his February victory in the Grade 3 Gulfstream Park Sprint Stakes.

The easier company, and a crafty ride by Edgar Prado, put Falling Sky back in the winner’s circle

Edge of Reality and Traffic Light, the defending Levine champion, disputed the early pace. Falling Sky also broke alertly but was eased off the duel by Prado. The colt raced five wide, always in the clear right behind the leaders. Heading for home, Falling Sky advanced on the outside and took charge a furlong from the finish.

Mezzano, a 7-1 longshot, came on to get second, a half-length behind the winner. Traffic Light hung in gamely to get third as the slight 2-1 choice over Falling Sky.

Falling Sky paid $6.80 to win, his fifth victory in 13 starts. He is owned by Newtown Anner Stud and Joseph Bulger.

The time was 1:21.91 for seven furlongs on the fast track.

Goodtimehadbyall was fourth followed by Adirondack King, Brothersofthetime, Arlo, Edge of Reality, Escrow Kid, and Cop a Tude.