Memorial Day weekend in New York includes the prestigious Metropolitan Handicap, but graded stakes are run on each of the three days. 7,138 came out on Saturday afternoon for the $150,000 Sheepshead Bay Handicap (G2) for older fillies and mares. A field of seven went 1 3/8 miles over the inner turf course, including defending champion Honey Ryder as the 6-5 favorite after finishing unplaced in the Dubai Sheema Classic last out. Bewitch winner Safari Queen was the 7-5 second choice over 7-1 third choice La Dolce Vita, winner of the Hollywood Wildcat.
Honey Ryder raced near the back of the field early, well off the pace set by 96-1 outsider Moon Dolly of 48.67 and 1:38.40 over the firm course. Into the lane, jockey Garrett Gomez took her wide to circle the field. In mid-stretch she collared stablemate Safari Queen to win by a length in 2:13.00. It was 3/4 length back to 16-1 Hostess in third, and 1 1/4 more to La Dolce Vita in fourth.
Part 2 - The Met Mile on Memorial Day Monday
