CLAREMORE, OK—NOVEMBER 5, 2011—Windy Lynne Ingersoll's lightly races Legitimate Excuse put in a sharp effort Saturday afternoon to win the $33,600 AQHA Challenge Will Rogers Maiden Handicap.

Ridden by Jesus Salazar, the Gold Medal Jess 3-year-old broke on top and extended his lead to 1 ¼ lengths over Shesanosecretary. Fastest qualifier Legendary Express finished a neck back in third.

Saddled by Dee Keener, Legitimate Excuse picked up the winner's purse of $15,456 in her second career win, boosting her total earnings past $28,000. She completed the 350 yards in a quick :17.490 to earn a 104 speed index. Harold Reavis bred the sorrel gelding in Oklahoma from the Power Train mare Rebel Train.

Shesnosecretary, a 6-year-old mare by This Snow Is Royal, earned $6,720 for owner Jorge Miranda. Vessels Stallion Farm, LLC bred the mare in California from the Apollo (TB) mare Secretary For Life. Also trained by Miranda she was ridden by Pedro Martinez.

Freddie Sumrow's fastest qualifier Legendary Express, picked up $3,360 for finishing third. Evans and Evans bred the Ocean Runaway filly in Texas from the Meter Me Gone mare Metered Express. Don Mourning trains with Alex Baldillez, Jr., riding. He earned $3,360.

Hartack, Jessie Lite, Dear Henry, Rare Quick Dash, This Dash Is Flying, Calling All Ladies and Oh Those Eyes completed the field.