Sabines Filly broke its maiden at Scioto Downs last night with a hard-fought 1:57.2 victory over the freshman filly Jessies Band. The sophomore daughter of Dragon Again had failed to hit the winner’s circle in 16 previous tries.

Driver David Myers left quickly with Sabines Filly, then yielded briefly to Berschet before quickly retaking the lead before the half. She then had to stave off a determined challenge from Jennas Bac N Town and driver Jeremy Smith.

In the final turn, the field bunched and many pacers seemed to pose a threat to Sabine’s Filly. She fought bravely to the wire to win by one length over the fast-finishing Jessies Band, making its first lifetime start. Jenna’s Bac N Town got a bit rough-gaited just before the wire but managed to hold on for third.

Sabines Filly is trained by Jim Arledge for Frank Dettore Horse Racing. She paid $14 to win and topped a $439.10 trifecta.

(With files from Scioto)