Horse Racing: Corinthian grabs Met Mile on Memorial Day

Elmont, NY (Sports Network) - Gulfstream Park Handicap winner Corinthian held off Political Force in deep stretch to capture the $600,000 Metropolitan Handicap at Belmont Park on Memorial Day. The Met Mile is a major race for older thoroughbreds on the road to the Breeders' Cup.

Setting the early pace in the one-turn mile was Mr. Umphrey who was entered to provide a fast pace for his stablemate Silver Wagon. Their trainer Richard Dutrow, Jr. won last year's running with Silver Train.

Mr. Umphrey led the nine-horse field up the backstretch closely followed by Half Ours and Latent Heat. Silver Wagon encountered some traffic problems shortly after the start and fell back to last.

Taking over the lead into the final turn was Half Ours with Latent Heat and Corinthian gaining on the outside. At the top of the stretch half the field appeared in contention for the win.

Corinthian edged to the lead in mid-stretch with 8-5 favorite Lawyer Ron second and Political Force third on the outside. In deep stretch Politcal Force passed Lawyer Ron, but was unable to catch Corinthian.