Killer Partner leads throughout in Race 2 on 2015 Kentucky Oaks program

Killer Partner proved speed can win on the Churchill Downs turf, leading wire to wire in Friday’s second race, a maiden special weight for fillies and mares.

Second in her first three starts for trainer Mike Maker, Killer Partner received a heady rider from Jose Ortiz, sprinting clear early and maintaining a comfortable advantage until midstretch. The three-year-old filly dug in gamely when challenged by Sawsan, who came with a stout late rally in her second career outing.

But the runner-up could not get by Killer Partner in the final strides, falling a nose short in a tight photo. The victress was off as the 3-1 second choice among 11 rivals and paid $8.20 to win.

Killer Partner is owned by Terry Raymond and Skychai Racing LLC and the Kentucky-bred is a daughter of Pioneerof the Nile, sire of Kentucky Derby favorite American Pharoah. Killer Partner completed a mile on the firm turf in 1:35.91.

Speed horses have fared well in the first two races on Friday’s Kentucky Oaks undercard, on both turf and dirt.