As a 2-year-old last year, Bernie’s Mitts posted third and ninth-place finishes before heading to the sidelines and taking off for seven months. The colt by First Dude returned yesterday in a six-furlong, $16,700 maiden special at Belterra Park and was sent off at a surprising 2/5 with Alexis Batista. In an owners’ dream scenario, the field was cut from five to three after two scratches.

    Bernie’s Mitt justified the bettors’ confidence, breaking on top and going wire-to-wire behind fractions of :22.61, :46.80 and :58.97, and coasting to the finish line nearly four lengths in front, clocked in 1:11.82 and paying $2.80. He became winner No. 21 this year for First Dude, and owner Nelson Berberena was rewarded for his patience with a check for $11,690.