Favored Silver Expression wins in mud

A muddy track and gritty rival could not prevent Silver Expression from solidifying her stance as the top New Mexico-bred 3-year-old filly as the daughter of Silver Season captured Sunland's $125,000 La Senora Handicap Saturday.

Sent off the 6-5 favorite despite coming off a two-month layoff, Silver Expression rated in fourth early under Miguel Perez, moved up to challenge for the lead going into the far turn, engaged Wild Ms. Pinke, and then won a prolonged duel with that rival to prevail by a neck. Owned by Dick Cappellucci and Hector Desantis and trained by Cappellucci, Silver Expression covered the six furlongs in muddy going in 1:14.29. She paid $4.60 for the victory and the winner's share of $75,000 pushes her career bankroll to $200,154 from three wins in five starts.

Wild Ms. Pinke, previously unbeaten in two starts and second choice in the wagering, was a gallant second. She finished a length ahead of the fast-closing La Mora Bonita in the field of 11.