Koluctoo’s Jill Recovers, Then Wins Black-Eyed Susan Stakes

BALTIMORE — Koluctoo’s Jill, after a poor start, withstood a closing rush by Denver Express to win the $114,300 Black-Eyed Susan Stakes for 3-year-old fillies Friday at Pimlico.

Koluctoo’s Jill’s jockey, Chris McCarron, survived a foul claim by Philip Grove, rider of third-place A Joyful Spray.

After hitting the side of the gate coming out, slipping and breaking stride, Koluctoo’s Jill took the lead for good on the first turn and finished a head in front of Denver Express, ridden by Gene St. Leon. A Joyful Spray was another 1 3/4 lengths back and nine lengths ahead of Contredance, the favorite.

Koluctoo’s Jill, carrying 121 pounds, was timed in 1:43 for the 1 1/16 miles on a sloppy track and paid $7, $3.60 and $3; Denver Express returned $4.40 and $3, and A Joyful Spray paid $5.20.