Repeat win seems likely

AUBURN, Wash. - Flying Memo stands a big chance to repeat in Sunday's feature at Emerald Downs, a 5 1/2-furlong test for optional $40,000 claimers that has drawn a field of five 4-year-old fillies.

Flying Memo, a daughter of Memo from the barn of trainer Steve Fisher, comes off a sharp score at the same level on Aug. 14, when she prevailed by a half-length over Sariano after six furlongs in 1:09.80. That was Flying Memo's first win since her sensational debut at Hastings Park in October of 2003, when she set a track record of 39.40 for 3 1/2 furlongs. Her career has been frequently interrupted by injuries, however, and she will be making only her eighth start on Sunday, when she will again be ridden by Juan Gutierrez at 122 pounds.

Three of Flying Memo's Sunday opponents chased her home in their last start. Melba Jewel finished third in that race, Carrie's a Jewel ran fourth, and Only Oralee checked in sixth and last after being outdueled for the lead by Flying Memo.

The newcomer in Sunday's field is Chiltepin, a daughter of Baquero from the barn of trainer Ben Root. Chiltepin will be making her local debut after starting six times in Southern California. She graduated going six furlongs against $40,000 maidens at Del Mar in August of last year, and she has since run second twice against $40,000 starter allowance company.

Chiltepin has not started since February, but she has been working well at Emerald Downs.