Posse sweeps to victory

LEXINGTON, Ky. - Returning to the scene of his memorable career debut, Posse swept past Roll Hennessy Roll in midstretch and went on to a 2 1/4-length triumph Sunday in the $107,900 at Keeneland.

With Corey Lanerie substituting for suspended regular rider Donnie Meche, Posse completed seven furlongs in 1:23.14 over a fast track before returning $6 to win as the slight favorite in a field of six 3-year-olds. Roll Hennessy Roll, the 2-1 second choice, held second, another 2 1/4 lengths before the early pacesetter, Bossanova. Whywhywhy, Battle Won, and Quick Draw completed the order of finish.

Posse, a Kentucky-bred colt by Silver Deputy, was one of the stars of the 2002 Keeneland spring meet after winning his first start, a 4 1/2-furlong maiden race, by 13 1/2 lengths for owner Bill Heiligbrodt and trainer Steve Asmussen. Although he won the Kentucky Breeders' Cup Stakes two starts later, Posse had been something of a disappointment in subsequent efforts. The Grade 3 Lafayette was just his second stakes win from 10 overall starts.

"I'm glad to get him back to the stature he deserves," said Asmussen.