Merlin Bay (4th, $20.60), a Tom Albertrani-trained second-time starter, and the longest price in a field of six statebred maiden claimers, kicked off the pick-6 under Jose Lezcano, who entered the day as the top win-percentage rider at the meet.
A colt by Graeme Hall, Merlin Bay saved ground to the lane, angled to the far outside and ran down Winning Token, who had slipped through inside duelers Wise Stop and Justtakemypicture turning for home.
Thus far today, it seems as though the outside paths are the preferred real estate on Big Sandy.
Albertrani's next Graeme Hall runner, Belle of the Hall, will be a clear-cut favorite in race 8, which is the only remaining dirt race on the program.