Exchange Likes It Fine at Dry Gulfstream Park

A much-troubled third as the favorite in the recent Buena Vista Handicap, Exchange had no problems Sunday in Florida, winning by half a length over Market Booster in the $200,000 Orchid Handicap at Gulfstream Park.

Ridden by Laffit Pincay for owners Sid and Jenny Craig and trainer Bill Spawr, the 2-1 favorite tracked the pace set by longshot Northern Emerald, drew clear, then went on to win in 2:29 for the 1 1/2 miles on turf.

“It was a long trip, but it was worthwhile,” Spawr said. “We had so much rain (in California) and the course there took a lot of water. She doesn’t like that. She likes a course firm and solid, like this one.”

In Louisiana, Breeders’ Cup Classic winner Concern made a successful return to the races, winning the $200,000 New Orleans Handicap at the Fair Grounds.

Coupled with Sticks and Bricks, who set the pace, Concern rallied from well off the pace--as is his custom--to beat Fly Cry by three lengths under Mike Smith in 1:49 2/5 for the 1 1/8 miles. Tossofthecoin was third.

Horse Racing Notes

Flanders, who was injured when winning the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies, officially has been retired and plans call for her to bred soon, most likely to Rahy, the sire of Serena’s Song.