Lotka Rallies to Win Acorn Stakes

Lotka, the fifth choice in a field of eight, stormed from 15 lengths back to collar the leaders in mid-stretch Saturday and drew off to win by 2 lengths in the $181,800 Acorn Stakes at Belmont Park, the first leg of New York’s triple crown for 3-year-old fillies.

Lotka, trained by Woody Stephens and ridden by Jerry Bailey, took advantage of an early speed duel among Life at the Top, favorite Lazer Show and Misty Drone. Lotka began her move on the final turn, found room between the leaders in the stretch and cruised home. Lotka completed the mile in 1:35 1/5.

Dynamic Star, a 60-1 shot who trailed the field in the early stages, finished second while Life At The Top was third.

Lotka paid $20.40, $10.40 and $5.80. Dynamic Star, ridden by Robert Thibeau Jr., paid $45.30 and $10.20 while Life At the Top, ridden by Jorge Velasquez, was $3.60 to show.