Maximum Security Wins Haskell Invitational

For a minute or two, it seemed like deja vu - but at the end of the Haskell Invitational, the Stewards' Inquiry sign flashed on the tote board after the $1 million Haskell Invitational was run this evening.  I held my breath, wondering if another win by Maximum Security would be taken away from from, as the Kentucky Derby victory was.  But, after less than three minutes, the Stewards at Monmouth decided that John Velasquez's quick take-back of King for a Day at the 3/8ths pole did not cause any change  or disruption in the order of finish. 
   It was a very hot day in New Jersey; and the Haskell was scheduled to have a post time of 5:45.  After running the first two races on the schedule, it was decided to cancel all races, except the Stakes races, which would begin at 8 p.m., by which time, it was hoped the temperatures would cool.  The Haskell Invitational field left the starting gate at approximately 8:15 p.m. EDT this evening, with six entries, as Joevia was scratched.
   Bethlehem Road led for the first half mile, then King for a Day took over the lead.  The Maximum Security turned on the gas.  Maximum Security crossed the finish line in a time of 1:47.56 for the 1 1/8 mile race.  He was 1 1/4 lengths ahead of Mucho Gusto, who led Spun to Run by 8 lengths; and was followed by Everfast 2 1/2 lengths further back.  King for a Day finished in fifth, with Bethlehem Road in sixth.  Maximum Security received $600,000 of the $990,000 guaranteed purse.
Pay outs for a a $ betting ticket were: $3.60 to win on Maximum Security, $3.40 to place on Mucho Gusto; and $5.60 to show on Spun to Run.  A $2 exacta paid $12; and a $1 Superfecta paid $185.70.
   Due to the continuing heat wave along the east coast, all racing scheduled for Sunday at Monmouth Park has been cancelled.

Maximum Security winning the Haskell Invitational