He didn’t break sharply and he didn’t race on the rail, two things that were extremely helpful in Friday’s earlier main track races at Belmont Park. But Catalina Cruiser still found a way to win the Grade 2, $250,000 True North Stakes in his first start since suffering his first career defeat in last fall’s Breeder’s Cup Dirt Mile.

Catalina Cruiser, who shipped east from Santa Anita for Hronis Racing and trainer John Sadler, came from off the pace to wear down pacesetter Strike Power late and score by about a half-length. Recruiting Ready, who pressed Strike Power’s pace, finished a close third, with Nicodemus rallying late to pick up fourth money.

Stretch running second choice Whitmore never got involved, but in fairness, this stretch runner was compromised by the way Belmont’s main track had been playing.

Do Share was a late scratch at the gate.

Catalina Cruiser, who paid $5.60 as the favorite, was ridden by Joel Rosario and covered the 6 ½ furlongs over a very fast surface in 1:14.85. This was the third career stakes victory and fifth career victory over all for this 5-year-old son of Union Rags, who last year landed the Grade 2 San Diego and the Grade 2 Pat O’Brien.

A full recap to follow on drf.com