The weather has been pretty chilly around the country lately, but in Ocala First Dude is blazing.

    Conrado, a 3-year-old colt bred by Joseph Arboritanza making his eighth start, broke his maiden at Tampa Bay Downs yesterday and became winner No. 5 for First Dude since Jan. 1.  Carlos Rojas guided Conrado to his seven-furlong score, accomplished in 1:26.34. He collected a check for $9,100, which raised First Dude’s progeny earnings for the eight days to $123,137. 

    Rojas sent his colt out for the lead from the outset and Conrado became involved in a three-way battle after a quarter in :23.97. He edged into the lead approaching the stretch, then left the other pair behind, winning by four widening lengths. He paid $8.60 and received his highest ‘E’ speed figure of 65.