Marry Me Do put on a strong stretch run, claiming a 1 1/4 -length victory over three rivals in a frantic finish to yesterday's $32,000 Bowie Stakes at Laurel Park.
"I just had to get him clear to win the race," said jockey Mark Johnston, who rode two winners yesterday. "He just wanted to run over horses."
Marry Me Do, who has won seven of 17 starts this year, traveled 6 furlongs in 1 minute, 10 seconds, rallying from off the pace to give trainder Ed Gaudet his third win of the day. Marry Me Do paid $12.60, $4 and $2.80.
"This horse has been very, very good," said Gaudet. "And I guess it's been a good day for me."
Mr. Moby Dick prevailed in a photo finish for second, worth $3.60 and $2.80. Night Spirit was third, paying $4.
Johnston kept his hold on the top spot in the local rider standings with the Marry Me Do win and a first-race victory on Pellston. He has 70 wins in the current meet, followed by Larry Reynolds (67) and Edgar Prado (63).
Johnston also leads all riders with 254 wins this year. Prado is second with 238, Reynolds third with 233.
NOTES: Forest Wildcat, making only her second start in the past 12 months, won the sixth race in 1:10 3/5. Forest Wildcat held off a late charge from Game Quoit, and posted her third win in seven career starts. . . . Saturday's Toys for Tots drive at Laurel Park resulted in more than $400 worth of Christmas items, which will be distributed to needy families. The event was conducted by the wives of Maryland jockeys and coordinated by Laurel Park gift shop manager Linda Wright.