HALLANDALE BEACH, Fla. -- The series got away to a thrilling start when favored Madame Pietra prevailed in a tight three-horse photo in the opening race, the $250,000 Filly and Mare Sprint.

Madame Pietra, based in California with trainer Howie Zucker, looped the field at the quarter-pole, then was all out to wear down Shameful by a neck. Chispiski was just another nose back in third, while Fly Me Crazy was fourth in the field of nine. The top four finishers are Florida-breds.

Pat Valenzuela was aboard Madame Pietra, a 6-year-old Roy mare who now has won six of 15 starts and over $385,000 for owner C T Grether Inc.

Madame Pietra returned $4.40 after finishing six furlongs in 1:10.22.