Sunland Park: Mr. Wizard much the best in New Mexico State University Handicap

Mr. Wizard separated himself from the field in the $85,000 New Mexico State University Handicap at Sunland Park on Sunday, when he darted to a five-length win as the 125-pound highweight. He spotted his rivals between five and eight pounds. On Down the Road ran second, finishing three-quarters of a length in front of third-place finisher Hush’s Storm.

The New Mexico State University was restricted to 4-year-olds and up bred in New Mexico.

Mr. Wizard ($6.80) has established himself as the division’s leader with wins in such races as the $190,480 New Mexico Cup Classic at Zia Park last October. In the race Sunday, he stalked the pace in third as McCoy and Groushy Apadana took the field through fractions of 22.64 seconds for the opening quarter and 47.79 for the half-mile. Mr. Wizard advanced three wide on the final turn, took over through six furlongs in 1:12.22, and pulled away while covering the mile and 70 yards in 1:41.18.

Dusty Shepherd rode the winner for trainer Dallas Barton.

Mr. Wizard races for the partnership of W.D. Carson, Sr., M.H. Carson, and Leach Racing.