RUIDOSO DOWNS, NM – JUNE 28, 2020 – Having raced just last weekend and running second after stumbling out of the gate, Shanghai Keely crossed the wire ahead of the field in today’s running of the $40,000 First Lady Handicap at Ruidoso Downs Race Track. Facing a slight headwind on the homestretch of the 6-furlong race, the filly held off a late charge from the field to finish with a time of 1:09.67.

Bred in Kentucky, Shanghai Keely is by Shanghai Bobby out of Silentlea by Cherokee Run. Owned by Stable H.M.A, LLC/Mark Dyer et al and trained by Justin Evans, Jimmy Coates was aboard for the win.

“The key to the win was that race the other day over the track,” said trainer Justin Evans. “We put her in an allowance race on June 19th just to give her the work, and she needed it. She stumbled out of the gate that day---but not today. She broke nicely and just waited until she was clear and sailed. I thought Jimmy (Coates) did a very nice job putting her in the perfect spot to win.”

According to jockey Jimmy Coates, Shanghai Keely did everything right today in her victory: “As soon as she got clear, I just gave her a little encouragement, and she did the rest all herself.”

A $2 win ticket returned $7.80 on Shanghai Keely who now returns to ABQ for trainer Evans who shipped her into Ruidoso Downs. 

Racing continues Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at Ruidoso Downs with the running of the Rainbow Futurity trials, the Rainbow Derby trials, and the inaugural Rainbow Oaks trials. Post time all three days will be 12:00 Noon, and there will be 15 races on both Friday’s and Saturday’s cards.

The Turf Club is currently open to 50% capacity to horse owners and season ticket holders. It is possible that there might be a limited number of 4-person tables available to the public for $50 each that will be made available online at RaceRuidoso.com Thursday at 12:00 Noon.

Visit RaceRuidoso.com to find out how to watch and wager along with information on drive-thru wagering that is being offered at the Ruidoso Sale Barn.