(Ask Amanda [right] breezing at Fair Hill Training Center)

We began the afternoon with another debut winner when ASK AMANDA turned in a very professional first effort to take a maiden special going 5 1/2 furlongs on the Laurel Park turf.

Jorge Ruiz had her settled about three-wide down the backstretch and into the turn, then swung to the five-path at the top of the stretch to give her a clear shot at the lead. Her response was definitive, with track announcer Dave Rodman providing one of his typically eloquent calls:

“Out in the center of the track, Ask Amanda gliding up smoothly now. Ask Amanda with plenty of confidence, asked to sprint forward now and does…..Ask Amanda, SO sharp to win by three!”

Her pilot agreed. “She was very impressive today!” Jorge said.

By Summer Front out of Privy Council, by Majesticperfection, the 2-year-old filly is owned by John Davison. She was bred by the late Governor Brereton C. Jones at his Airdie Stud in Midway, Kentucky. It’s always very special to get a win for long-time connections.

Congratulations to Mr. Davison on Ask Amanda’s terrific race today!