Roscoe Pito takes Emerald Breeders' Cup Derby

AUBURN, Wash. - Canadian invader Roscoe Pito took the lead at the start and was never headed en route to a two-length victory over the favored Condotierri in Monday's $105,625 Emerald Breeders' Cup Derby at Emerald Downs.

Under a clever ride by Sam Krasner, Roscoe Pito slowed the pace to 47.60 for the first half mile of the nine furlong event, then had plenty left to stave off the late charge of Condotierri in 1:47.60. Knightsbridge held third in the field of six after stalking the early pace.

It was the third straight stakes win for Roscoe Pito, who races for Raj Mutti, Gus Gomes and trainer John Snow. He paid $5.60 to win as the second-favorite and earned $55,000, boosting his career total to $146,616 from four wins in seven starts.