First Dude remained within four winners of Florida leader Khozan with the convincing victory of Bella Serena at Tampa Bay Downs yesterday.

The 3-year-old filly owned and bred by Joe and Vivi Serena broke her maiden in her ninth start and earned a check for $9,890 while becoming the 24th winner for First Dude this year.

Alberto Burgos was aboard Bella Serena, who jumped out to the early lead and was never seriously threatened while setting even 24-plus fractions throughout the entire trip. She then drew away with a final eighth in :12.61 for a seven-furlong clocking of 1:25.58, reaching the wire comfortably in front by 2 3/4 lengths and paying $4 as favorite.