Opening Verse Wins Razorback

HOT SPRINGS, Ark. — Opening Verse took command in the middle of the stretch and scored an easy two-length victory over Primal in the $150,000 Razorback Handicap on Saturday at Oaklawn Park.

It was a replay of the 1989 Razorback when jockey Pat Day, owner Allen Paulson and trainer Richard Lundy combined to win the race with Blushing John.

Opening Verse completed the 1 1/16-mile Razorback in 1:41 2/5 and returned $5.40, $3.20 and $2.60 as the second choice in the wagering. Favored Primal returned $3.00 and $2.40. Silver Survivor, beaten in the final strides for second, paid $3.20.

Forli Light, the early leader who covered the first six furlongs in 1:10 2/5, hung on for fourth.