Front-runner Injustice upsets Azeri

HOT SPRINGS, Ark. - Injustice, a recent private purchase making her first start for trainer Wayne Catalano, stole the Grade 3, $175,000 on Saturday at Oaklawn Park when she wired the field in the 1 1/16-mile race that serves as a prep for the Grade 1, $500,000 Apple Blossom Handicap on April 9.

Colony Band finished a half-length behind Injustice in second, while it was another 5 1/4 lengths back in third to favorite Island Sand.

Injustice ($16.80), who now races for the partnership of Turf Express and Yates, broke well and led the field through fractions of 23.92 seconds for the opening quarter, while racing about a length in front of Fencelineneighbor. Injustice continued to lead the field down the backside, racing through the opening half-mile in 48.14. She remained in front around the turn, covering six furlongs in 1:12.60, and in deep stretch held off a vigorous bid by Colony Band.

Injustice, who was ridden by Luis Quinonez, covered the distance over a track rated fast in 1:43.40. She earned $105,000 for her eighth win in 18 career starts.

One start prior to the Azeri she won an allowance at Oaklawn for trainer Jerry Hardin.