In a case where the race could not have set up any better, Susan Moore’s and M and M Thoroughbred’s Zaftig took full advantage and overtook favored Carolyn’s Cat in the lane en route to a 5 ¼- length victory Saturday afternoon 13th running of the Grade 2, $ Nassau County for three-year-old fillies at seven furlongs.

Making only her fourth career start, the Gone West filly rated comfortably under jockey Jorge Chavez as Carolyn’s Cat and Irish Smoke dueled from the start. Carolyn’s Cat, who had won three of her last four starts, emerged with the lead entering the stretch; however, her earlier battle, fought through fractions of 22.57; 45.01 and 1:10.08, had taken its toll.

She offered no resistance as Zaftig came home the winner in 1:22.74. It was her first graded stakes victory.

“On paper, it didn’t look like there was anyone to go with the favorite,” said winning trainer Jimmy Jerkens. “Heading into the turn, I wasn’t feeling too confident. For some reason, she can’t hold her position around the turn. She kind of got sandwiched and was on the wrong lead. But then Jorge (Chavez, jockey) kind of pushed Joe Bravo (aboard JZ Warrior) out, and when she hit the straightaway, she got the job done.”

She returned $11.60.

Chavez liked the response he got from Zaftig, who could appear next on Belmont Stakes Day, Saturday, June 7, in the Grade 1, $250,000 Acorn for three-year-old fillies at a one mile.”

“I knew the favorite was the only speed,” Chavez said of his second winner on the afternoon. “I was hoping someone would go with her, and that’s what happened. She kicked in really well at the end.”

Carolyn’s Cat held for the place, better than four lengths ahead of JZ Warrior in third. Ready for Fortune, Dagger, Irish Smoke and Paint Me Red trailed.