Harrah's Hoosier Park: Maryland cruises in Peter Haughton Memorial

Maryland and driver Dexter Dunn made it look easy despite starting from post eight, dominating his 2-year-old rivals and capturing the $390,000 Peter Haughton Memorial at Harrah's Hoosier Park in a 1:54 1/5 clocking.

Dunn had Maryland on the move at the start but had company as High Speed Swan grabbed control early, followed by Father TJ and Tyler Buter, who led into the opening bend. Eugene The Genius took a tuck behind the leader into the turn, and that left Hidalgo with Yannick Gingras parked and Dunn following behind with the 6-5 favored Maryland.

Following a 27 1/5 opening fraction, Hidalgo was parked further but got the lead about three-eighths of a mile in. Dunn had Maryland marching right behind and was able to clear in advance of the half-mile pole that he crossed in a relaxed 57 4/5. With no outside competition, Dunn had the Chapter Seven-sired Maryland cruising through three-quarters in 1:27 and turning into the homestretch he separated from the pocket-sitting Hidalgo and made the battle for the minor spoils. Hidalgo finished second with Eugene The Genius rallying late for the third spot.

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A 27 1/5 final quarter, while appearing totally in-hand, sewed up the race for Maryland, who followed up a major win in the William Wellwood with the Haughton. With the victory Maryland gets an automatic placement into the Breeders Crown final.

"He was great in the Wellwood and he felt better tonight," said Dunn.

Marcus Melander trains Maryland for owners Courant Inc., PCW Racing, Holly Lane Stud East and SStewart R Thorn Stable. As the favorite, Maryland, a winner for the third time in six career starts, returned $4.40 to win.

"He's such a classy horse. He did it easily tonight," said Melander in the winner's circle.