Mr. Trieste victorious in Zia Express

Mr. Trieste made a rare appearance around one turn a winning one on Saturday, when he rallied for a one-length victory over Orphan Brigade in the $68,800 Zia Express at Zia Park in Hobbs, N.M. It was another neck back in third to Go Kitty Go.

Mr. Trieste ($4) raced about five lengths behind the pace set by Dangerous Devon, who led the field through an opening quarter in 22.60 seconds and the half-mile in 45.20. Mr. Trieste rallied through the stretch, covering the six and a half furlongs over a track rated fast in 1:17.80.

Ken Tohill rode the winner for trainer Gary Cross.

Mr. Trieste earned $41,280 for his victory in the Express, which was his ninth career stakes win. Overall, he has won 15 of 25 starts and $544,060. Mr. Trieste races for Richard Lueck. He is now a perfect 4-for-4 at Zia, and won his third straight race in the Express.

Lueck said after the race that Mr. Trieste would be pointed for the $200,000 Zia Park Championship on Dec. 10. He added that the horse will probably enter stud in 2007, likely in New Mexico.