More relaxed Lang Field wins Citation

INGLEWOOD, Calif. - Displaying a new and more versatile style, Lang Field pulled an 18-1 upset in Fridays $400,000 Citation Handicap at Hollywood Park.

Instead of leading early, as he did in three consecutive wins in allowance races earlier this year, Lang Field stalked pacesetters Willow O Wisp and Silent Name until the turn, took the lead in the final furlong and held off a late run from Zann to win by a neck.

Lang Field ($39.60) ran 1 1/16 miles on turf in a quick 1:39.72.

The victory was the most important win of his 20-race career. Owned by Nigel Shields and trained by Art Sherman, Lang Field has won six races and $422,993.

Winning jockey Jon Court said that Lang Field was a handful early, but that the 4-year-old gelding was comfortable behind the front-runners through the first half-mile.

I was keeping him in the bridle to keep position, Court said. From there, I needed to save something for the stretch.

Silent Name led turning for home, but was caught by Lang Field in the final furlong. Lang Field was fully extended to beat Zann, the 2-1 favorite, who closed from last to just miss. Proudinsky, fourth for much of the race, finished third in the field of nine.

Lang Field left Court confident that the 4-year-old can show further improvement if he can continue to run from of the pace.

Hes proven he can run with some of the better horses, Court said.