Steinlen Shows His Turf Is Grass in Premiere Win

Steinlen stamped himself a major turf performer Sunday by winning the $111,700 Premiere Handicap at Hollywood Park for his third straight victory.

The English-bred 5-year-old raced in the middle of the pack of eight horses until the turn for home, where he responded to the urging of jockey Gary Stevens and held off the closing bid of European invader Siyah Kallem, making his first American start.&

Steinlen, who has appeared in five previous American races, won his two previous starts, including a victory last month at Santa Anita in the El Rincon Handicap. As a result he was sent off the favorite in the mile race by a the crowd of more than 31,000.

He paid $5.80, $4 and $3. Siyah Kallem, ridden by Chris McCarron, returned $11 and $5.40, while Neshad, ridden by Aaron Gryder, paid $3.40.

The victory was worth $66,700 plus a Breeders’ Cup award of $13,500 to increase Steinlen’s earnings to $277,588. He is woned by art dealer Daniel Wildenstein.

Early in the race, Sperry. Prince Bobby B. and Deputy Governor battled for the lead. But on the turn for home, Steinlen moved to the front and held on. He was timed in 1:33 1/5.