China Pearls dazzled nine rivals in the only elimination division of the SBOA stakes for three-year-old trotting fillies, Friday, Aug. 19 at Mohawk Racetrack.

The Kadabra-Pure Sable miss was driven by Randy Waples and overpowered Oh Sweet Baby in the lane to coast home in 1:54.4. Oh Sweet Baby took second money in the $25,000 purse event, with Magic Wheel rallying late for third.

China Pearls is owned by veteran trainer Carman Hie in partnership with Blake Anthony of Millgrove, Ont., Ted Murrell of Sharon, Ont., and Peter Kloepfer of Harley, Ont. The talented miss upped her lifetime bankroll to $151,778 with the win, her fourth in 12 starts.

China Pearls stands to face stiffer competition in the $148,654 Final on August 26, as Peach Martini, Lukes Sophie and Mystic Allure all received byes into the Final.

In post position order, the field for the SBOA Final will be:

1. Ka Jean
2. Eagle Canada
3. Peach Martini
4. China Pearls
5. Lukes Sophie
6. Mystic Allure
7. L A Freeway
8. Oh Sweet Baby
9. Youlneverwalkalone
10. Magic Wheel
No eliminations were required for the SBOA Stakes for sophomore pacing fillies, so all five entries advance to the $132,654 final. In post position order on August 26th , they’ll be:

1. Modern Connection
2. Three Charms
3. Mach Lady
4. Patsys Luck
5. Monkey On My Wheel