Lewis Michael best in Washington Park

Lewis Michael relished the extra ground when lengthening his stride in an easy score Saturday in the Grade 2, $300,000 Washington Park Handicap at Arlington Park in Arlington Heights, Ill.

With E.T. Baird riding for owner Frank Calabrese and trainer Wayne Catalano, Lewis Michael disputed much of the pace inside of longshot Throng in the 1 3/16-mile Washington Park 'Cap, then drew off with ease when prevailing by 4 3/4 lengths over Mustanfar. The winner returned $3.80 as the favorite in a field of seven older horses after finishing in 1:55.17 on Polytrack.

Lewis Michael, a 4-year-old homebred colt by Rahy, had raced primarily in middle-distance races before stretching out in the Washington Park, which marked his sixth win from 18 starts. Baird was riding him for the first time. "I knew he was a nice horse, but I didn't know he was that nice," said Baird.