Sky Rant likely favorite in the First Lady

Sky Rant, who was just edged in the race last year, could start as the favorite in Saturday’s renewal of the $30,000 First Lady Handicap at Ruidoso Downs, a six-furlong race for fillies and mares. She is the 123-pound highweight on the strength of her win in last month’s $30,000 Budweiser at SunRay Park.

The First Lady drew a field of seven. Other leading contenders include Bright Town, the 2015 winner of the First Lady who is making her first start since April, and Untraveled, who was the runner-up to Sky Rant in the Budweiser.

First Lady Handicap (Race 9)

KEY CONTENDERS

Sky Rant, by Sky Mesa
(Last 3 Beyers: 75-77-76)

* She stalked the pace in the 4 1/2-furlong Budweiser before going on to a 2 1/4-length win. She could sit closer to the pace with the added ground she picks up in the First Lady.

* Sky Rant has won three of her last four starts, including an optional $15,000 claiming sprint March 4 at Sunland.

* Alfredo Juarez Jr. has the mount for Teed Off Stable and trainer Justin Evans.

Bright Town, by Speightstown
(Last 3 Beyers: 74-59-41)

* She is making her first start since April 8, when she finished third in an allowance at Sunland. The 5 1/2-furlong race went in a quick 1:03.

* Bright Town earned a career-high Beyer Speed Figure of 85 for her 4 1/2-length win in First Lady in 2015.

* She is weighted at 118.

* Ruby Gonzalez has the mount for trainer Sal Gonzalez.