Oaklawn: Great Notion much the best

HOT SPRINGS, Ark. - Great Notion mastered two turns in his first attempt when he pulled away to a nine-length win over Alke in the $75,000 for 3-year-olds at Oaklawn Park.

It was another 1 1/4 lengths back in third to favorite Comic Truth.

Great Notion ($8) took the lead soon after the start of the one-mile race, and led the field through fractions of 23.60 seconds for the opening quarter and 47.80 seconds for the half. Into the second turn, Comic Truth launched his bid, but Great Notion had something more and went on to cover the distance over a track rated good in 1:38.80.

Terry Thompson was aboard Great Notion for the first time for Silverton Hills Farm and trainer Darrin Miller, who is in his first season at Oaklawn.

Great Notion earned $45,000 for the win, which was his third from four starts. His one loss came on Jan. 4 when he finished second, beaten a nose by Champali, in the $50,000 Prevue at Turfway Park.

Great Notion, a son of Elusive Quality, now has earnings of $98,860.

Attendance ontrack was 16,910.