Pedroza, Sise dominate at Fairplex

POMONA, Calif. - A come-from-behind victory Saturday by Smooth Performer in the $50,000 E.B. Johnston Stakes at Fairplex Park capped a banner day for trainer Cliff Sise and jockey Martin Pedroza.

The victory by Smooth Performer ($12.60) was the fourth win on the card for Sise, and the sixth for Pedroza. "I thought I could win four," said Sise, whose previous high was three.

Smooth Performer settled midpack in the mile and a sixteenth race for fillies and mares, unleashed a big move on the far turn, collared longshot Made for Magic in deep stretch and pulled away by a length and quarter in 1:44.04. It was the first stakes win for the Benchmark filly, whose next start is expected to be in a California Cup race on Oct. 3 during the Oak Tree meet at Santa Anita.

Completing the order of finish after runner-up Made for Magic was Magical Victory, Tidal Dance, 7-5 favorite Gambler's Justice, Spinning Yarns and Pams Pompallier.

Pedroza, who won seven races on the card twice during the 2008 Los Angeles County Fair meet, fell short of tying his track record in the 12th and final race Saturday. He finished second on pacesetter Bubsy.