Performance Review gets first stakes victory in Neon Desert Handicap

Performance Review flattered Escape Clause on Sunday when she closed for a two-length win over Baydar in the $75,000 Neon Desert Handicap at Sunland Park. It was another 1 3/4 lengths back to Kram in third.

Performance Review entered the 6 1/2-furlong race for fillies and mares off a third-place finish to Escape Clause in the track’s $100,000 Harry Henson on March 24. In the weeks since, Escape Clause has finished second by a nose in the Grade 1, $750,000 Apple Blossom Handicap at Oaklawn and been named Canada’s champion older female of 2018 during last week’s Sovereign Awards.

Performance Review ($23.20) trailed early as Harking and Baydar dueled through an opening quarter in 23.24 seconds and Baydar continued on through a half-mile in 45.88 and six furlongs in 1:10.34. Performance Review closed through the stretch and covered the distance on a fast track in 1:16.43.

Santiago Gonzalez was aboard for trainer Miguel Hernandez.

Performance Review is a daughter of Eskendereya who races for Judge Lanier Racing. She earned $45,000 for the win in the Neon Desert to improve her career record to four wins from 11 starts for earnings of $110,590. It was the first stakes win for Performance Review.