Linda MacDonald drove Firm Fatale to victory in the Mildred Williams International Women's Driving Challenge Saturday night at Colonial Downs.
The race featured eight female drivers, all of whom donated their winnings to charity in conjunction with a Susan G. Komen for the Cure Richmond Affiliate fundraiser at the New Kent oval Saturday.
Katherine Ann Smith's Firm Fatale was fourth through the first quarter-mile and was keen to go after pacesetter Believe This Point as the field neared the turn, but MacDonald was able to tuck her into second as Believe This Point crossed the half in 55.3.
Firm Fatale was content to race in the pocket around the turn as Believe This Point continued to lead through three-quarters in 1:25. MacDonald tipped Firm Fatale out as soon as they straightened for home and the five-year-old Firm Belief mare responded with an instant burst of speed to quickly draw clear of the field.
Ss Senorita launched a powerful rally for driver Devan Miller to loom the lone threat to Firm Fatale in the final furlong. Ss Senorita was steadily gaining, but Firm Fatale finished gamely to prevail by a length in 1:55.
Jet Express was another five and a half lengths back in third for driver Elisabeth Jansen.
The Midlred Williams International Driving Challenge was Firm Fatale's third win of the season.
Roland Dunavent, Jr. trains Firm Fatale.
(Colonial Downs)