Adapted from a Maryland State Fair release

Racing got underway this afternoon at Timonium, the first of ten days of close-up action at the Maryland State Fair.

Trainer Gary Capuano moved one win closer to a lifetime mark of 1000 victories when he saddled first time starter Baby Situation ($7.60) to win the third race. J.D. Acosta was aboard the 2-year-old daughter of Medallist, the first of two victories this afternoon for the journeyman rider. Capuano has one starter named to race on Sunday, the 2-1 program favorite Steady Warrior, who goes in race two.

Dane Kobiskie got off to a quick start to lead the trainer standings, winning twice. He saddled Lemon Cookie ($4) to win the fourth race and Meant Every Tear ($5.40) to take race six.

According to Equibase chart data, handle for the nine-race program was $401,515, a bit less than a four percent dip from last year’s meet-opening Friday.  Announced attendance of 1,636 was about 300 fewer people than the same day a year ago.

Racing resumes on Saturday at 1:05 p.m.