Housebuster Cruises to an Easy Victory in Withers at Belmont

NEW YORK —  Housebuster, ridden by Kentucky Derby-winning jockey Craig Perret, remained unbeaten as a 3-year-old with an easy victory Wednesday in the Withers on opening day at Belmont Park.

“It was easy and expected,” trainer Jimmy Croll said of Housebuster’s sixth victory of the year. “I don’t think Perret hit him.”

“He can’t get much better than he is,” said Perret, who rode Unbridled to victory in Saturday’s Derby. “When you run him where he belongs, he won’t get beat.”

Housebuster broke on top and stayed there for a two-length victory over Profit Key, who was four lengths ahead of Sunny Serve. Housebuster carried 126 pounds over the mile in 1:34 4/5 and paid $3, $2.40 and $2.20.