NATIONAL ROUNDUP : Miner’s Mark Beats Sea Hero, Colonial Affair

Miner’s Mark, first foal of the unbeaten mare Personal Ensign, prevailed in a stretch drive with Virginia Rapids to win the $150,000 Jim Dandy Stakes by a neck at Saratoga on Sunday.

Belmont Stakes winner Colonial Affair was another 4 1/2 lengths back in third, with Kentucky Derby winner Sea Hero fourth.

The Jim Dandy, a Grade II race for 3-year-olds, is the main prep race for the $1-million Travers Stakes at Saratoga on Aug. 21.

Miner’s Mark, a son of Mr. Prospector, won the Colin Stakes at Belmont on June 5 before finishing second to Cherokee Run in the Dwyer Stakes at Belmont on July 3. Miner’s Mark, ridden by Chris McCarron, covered 1 1/8 miles on the fast track in 1:49 and returned $6.40, $3.20 and $2.80. *

Kissin Kris, runner-up to Colonial Affair in the Belmont Stakes, overcame Storm Tower to win the $500,000 Haskell Invitational Handicap at Monmouth Park by 2 1/4 lengths. Kissin Kris, ridden by Jose Santos, was timed in 1:49 2/5 for the 1 1/8 miles. He paid $8.60, $4.60 and $3.80.