Chasing AJ Becomes Top Qualifier in Day One Trials of the $1 million Ruidoso Futurity at Ruidoso Downs Race Track Ruidoso Downs, NM—Chasing AJ broke sharp and pulled away a length-and-a-half winner in the fourth race today during the opening day of trials for the $1 million Ruidoso Futurity at Ruidoso Downs Race Track.

“He was acting a little crazy warming up,” jockey Rodrigo Sigala Vallejo said after the race. “But as soon as we went into the gate the horse settled down and did everything perfectly.”

“That’s the way he’s been from the start,” trainer Health Taylor said. “It’s something to do with his mouth—he doesn’t want anyone messing with it and that’s why he acts that way. He’s a bit of a fighter and will give back when he’s tested.”

Chasing AJ, sired by Apollitical Jess out of the mare Eye On This Candy, ran the 350-yards in a time of 17.797 seconds and paid $5.00, $3.60 and $2.60.

The other qualifiers on Friday included: BV Higher Power in 17.881 seconds, Laveen Eagle in 17.885 seconds, Getthere Fast in 17.889 seconds, and Powerful in 17.906 seconds. Chasing AJ also had the fastest time during training races on May 11 at Ruidoso Downs. The gelding is owned by Steve Holt. Day-two of trials for the Ruidoso Futurity will begin Saturday at Noon.

There will be 15 races with the top five qualifying for the final scheduled for Sunday, June 12. For more information about the racing and events happening opening weekend, visit www.raceruidoso.com