HAKAMA, a 3-year-old colt by FIRST SAMURAI, went off as the 3-5 favorite to win a 1 1/16-mile allowance on the main track at Laurel on January 4th. While well in hand, HAKAMAcleared his rivals to set a rated pace and led wire-to-wire for a 1 1/4-length victory.
Showing an obvious liking to the longer distances, this was the second straight win forHAKAMA, having broken his maiden in December at Aqueduct over one mile and 70 yards. The Sophomore colt now has two wins and twice placed from four starts to date. Out of the Unbridled mare Check, he was bred in Kentucky by Claiborne Farm, races for Harry and Tom Meyerhoff, and is trained by Michael J. Trombetta.