Sunland Park: Shemoveslikeaghost three-peats

Shemoveslikeaghost, gone nearly 13 months, came back to reclaim her throne as the top New Mexico-bred female in the $125,000 New Mexico State Racing Commission Handicap, her third straight victory in the race.

Shemoveslikeaghost stalked the pace under jockey Joe Martinez, moved strongly to the lead into the lane, opened up a clear lead, then had just enough to keep the strong-closing Mystic Melissa at bay by a half-length. The $75,000 winner's share pushed her bankroll to over $530,000 from 11 career wins, and made her the richest New Mexico-bred female of all time.

Trained by Fred Danley, Shemoveslikeaghost ($6.40) ran the six furlongs in 1:11.65. Mystic Melissa closed furiously from last to get second. Latenite Special, the 8-5 favorite, closed well to be third.