Key to Power storms to victory in Claiming Crown Emerald

Key to Power put in a sustained run for a half-length win over Roman Approval in the off-the-turf Claiming Crown Emerald on Saturday at Gulfstream Park. It was another neck back in third to the late-running Ghost Hunter.

There was about a five-minute stewards’ inquiry following the race. Dreams Cut Short fell on the final turn, throwing rider Matthew Rispoli, but initial word was that both individuals avoided serious injury, according to Daily Racing Form correspondent Mike Welsch.

Key to Power ($21.60) raced well off the pace through fractions of 23.27 seconds for the opening quarter and 47.26 for the half-mile, then began picking off horses into the final turn. He continued his momentum around the bend and through the stretch while covering 1 1/16 miles on a track downgraded to sloppy in 1:44.61.

Corey Lanerie rode Key to Power for trainer Brendan Walsh.

Key to Power earned $68,750 for his win in the $125,000 Emerald. He now boasts a career record of 12 wins from 36 starts for lifetime earnings of $402,708. Key to Power races for Premier Stables Unlimited. He is a 6-year-old horse by A.P. Indy, and he was bred in Kentucky by Pam and Marty Wygod.

Key to Power was a $35,000 claim in February at Gulfstream.