Westerner win caps Welch's run

Jockey Quincy Welch capped a triumphant return to action with a victory aboard True Metropolitan in the $50,000 Westerner at Northlands Park on Sunday.

Facing just three rivals in the 1 1/16-mile Westerner, True Metropolitan was clocked in a fast 1:42.80 and scored by 4 1/4 lengths after tracking the pacesetter, Beau Brass, and assuming command on the top of the turn for home.

Trick of the North closed for second, a half-length before Beau Brass, with Fuhr Ore completing the order of finish.

Welch, who missed six racing days after being kicked in the thigh upon dismounting Nugrayon-

theblock on Aug. 6, celebrated his return last Saturday by sweeping both halves of the $60,000 Sales Stakes for 2-year-olds.

Before being hurt Aug. 6, Welch rode Howsitgoinghotshot to victory in a six-furlong maiden race. He made it 2 for 2 aboard him in Saturday's colts and geldings division of the Sales.

Howsitgoinghotshot ($4.90) is trained by Kelly Robinson.

Welch swung three wide to engage the leaders turning for home, and drew off under a hand ride for a 3 1/2-length tally over The Millionaire.

Howsitgoinghotshot earned $36,000 after completing the 6 1/2 furlongs in 1:19.60.

One race earlier, Welch employed similar strategy aboard Apilonia ($6.90) in the fillies division after breaking from the outside post in the field of eight. She cruised home a 4 1/2-length winner over Gypsophila in 1:19.80.