Favored Benny the Bull started off a day that could be an historic one for trainer Richard Dutrow Jr., as he rallied wide in the lane to catch front-running Man of Danger and win the 30th running of the Grade 2, $250,000 True North Handicap by a neck.

It was his first start since winning the Group 1 Dubai Golden Shaheen on March 29. He returned $3 for his eighth win in 16 career starts. He is undefeated in three starts this year.

“I wasn’t concerned about him coming into this race off his Dubai win because he had been training so well,” said Dutrow, who later Saturday will saddle Triple Crown hopeful Big Brown in the Belmont Stakes. “I was more concerned with him at the eighth-pole, that he wouldn’t win. We let him run his own race, and he got up there just in time. Obviously, he’s better than he was last year. He has been coming around the right way at the right time. We’ll have to see how he comes out of this race to see what’s ahead.”

Under jockey Edgar Prado, who lost his Belmont Stakes mount when Casino Drive was scratched earlier in the day because of a bruised left-hind hoof, Benny the Bull kept Benny the Bull far back but relaxed as Man of Danger and John Velazquez set the pace of 22.06; 44.98 and 56.61.

On a day of plus 90-degree temperature, Benny the Bull heated up while wide in the lane and ran down the leader for the victory, covering six furlongs in 1:09.06 on the fast track.

Abraaj came late but was beaten a neck for the place.

Thor’s Echo, Council Member, Suave Jazz and Saint Daimon trailed, while Storm in May was scratched.