Yonkers: Downbytheseaside cruises in lone Messenger elimination

Downbytheseaside eliminated all doubt about his status as the prohibitive choice to capture the Messenger Stakes final. The sophomore son of Somebeachsomewhere routinely defeated eight rivals, only one of which won't return to next Saturday's $500,000 final, in capturing the lone $40,000 elimination in 1:51 flat by open lengths.

Brian Sears left with purpose and yielded to Summer Side off the opening turn. When entrymate Blood Line assumed control at the 27 2/5 opening quarter, it allowed Sears to send Downbytheseaside to the front late on the second turn. From there it was a one-horse race with fractions of 56, 1:23 3/5, and a final quarter of 27 2/5 with Sears looking for competition but finding none.

Art Scene came through inside for second, with Blood Line holding third. Only Beyond Delight will not return for the final.

Brian Brown trains Downbytheseaside for owners Country Club Acres, Joe Sbrocco, Rich Lombardo and Diamond Creek Racing.