Prime Engine cruises to victory in Emerald Downs Derby

AUBURN, Wash. – Prime Engine blew them away Sunday in the $67,000 Emerald Downs Derby, kicking away to win by six lengths after collaring the pacesetter Betrbegone passing the quarter pole. Betrbegone held the place by two lengths over Percy Fawcett, who was followed by Thetrailerguy, Raspberry Road, Fire the Trainer, Senna, and Dedicated to You in a field of eight.

In a race that seemed to be wide open, Prime Engine attracted bets early, middle, and late, starting as the 4-5 favorite despite losses in his two previous starts. The difference Sunday: Prime Engine raced with blinkers for the first time, and trainer Mike Puhich said the equipment change helped Prime Engine in both the loading process before the start and in sharpening his abundant speed in the early stages.

After Betrbegone sped through the first six furlongs in 1:10.22, Prime Engine took over, reaching the furlong marker in 1:34.55. He then coasted to the wire under Joe Steiner to complete 1 1/8 miles in 1:47.54.

Prime Engine earned $35,750, increasing his career mark to $110,961 for owner Mark Dedomenico of Redmond, Wash. Dedomenico paid $110,000 for Prime Engine at Keeneland in September 2013. By Northern Afleet, Prime Engine is from the Unbridled's Song mare Gravy Train's Song. Prime Engine has won 3 of 7 starts, including the 2014 Gottstein Futurity.

Prime Engine joined I.M. Buzy (1997-98) and Jumron One (2000-01) as the only horses to capture both the Gottstein Futurity and the Emerald Downs Derby.