Suzzona wins opening-day Lightning City

OLDSMAR Fla. - Swinging off the rail into the stretch for racing room, Suzzona ran down the leader late to post a half-length upset in the $75,000 Lightning City Stakes on opening day of the Tampa Bay Downs meet Saturday.

With Hector Ramos contributing a well-judged ride, Suzzona covered the five furlongs over a firm Tampa turf course in 56.83 seconds to notch her fourth win from her last five outings.

Trained by Ben Feliciano Jr., Suzzona returned $15.20 while accounting for her fifth win from eight outings this season and her 16th career victory. Eleven of her wins have come on turf.

Trippi's Sailor set a quick pace that included an opening an opening quarter of 21.99 and a half of 45.12. She was followed closely by Jehen with Suzzona boxed along the rail.

Turning for home Ramos swung Suzzona to the middle of the course and the 6-year-old mare responded, rallying past Jehan, then wearing down Trippi's Sailor for the victory.

Trippi's Sailor saved the place with late-closing Tremendamente Loca finishing third.

Suzzona earned $45,000 for her efforts, which brought her earnings for the year to $175,010.