Western Prize wins first stakes

Western Prize became a stakes winner on Friday, when he closed from last for a length and a quarter win in the $82,700 Eddy County for 2-year-olds at Zia Park. Bold Vow finished second in the one-mile race, nine lengths clear of third-place finisher Topper Power.

Western Prize ($3.80) raced about eight lengths off the pace set by Bold Vow, who was clear through fractions of 24 seconds for the opening quarter, 48 for the half-mile mark and 1:13.60 for six furlongs. Western Prize overtook that one late in the stretch, covering the distance in 1:41.

Roman Chapa rode the winner for trainer Scott Blasi.

Western Prize earned $49,620 for the victory for Vinery Stables. He has now won 3 of 8 starts and $142,550. Western Prize is a son of Pure Prize.