El Areeb by 11¼ lengths in Aqueduct's Jerome Stakes

NEW YORK (AP) El Areeb was the dominant winner of the $150,000 Jerome Stakes at Aqueduct on Monday, the first race of the year in New York for Triple Crown hopefuls.

The 3-year-old colt made a powerful statement, scoring by 11\\ lengths to extend his winning streak to three for Maryland-based trainer Cal Lynch.

The victory was worth 10 qualifying points for the Kentucky Derby.

The Jerome unfolded with even-money favorite Takaful setting the pace and El Areeb tracking close behind.

Midway on the final turn, El Areeb easily overtook Takaful and pulled clear.

The time was 1:46.17 for the mile, 70 yards.

The 5-2 second choice, El Areeb paid $7.60, $4.80 and $3.90.

Bonus Points, a 14-1 outsider, rallied to finish a distant second and returned $11.80 and $7.

True Timber paid $8.50 to show.