Overshadowed by Breeders' Cup winning stablemate Pizza Bianca, Hurstland Farm-raised Diamond Hands nonetheless made a fine seasonal debut when runner-up in Friday's Old Hilltop S. at Pimlico.

Taking the lead into the homestretch, the 3yo Frosted filly out of stakes producer Love Cove was passed only by fellow Christophe Clement trainee Pizza Bianca en route to earning her first career black-type. Diamond Hands held off a pair of late challenges under Irad Ortiz to hold 2nd safe in the $100,000 Preakness week contest.

Pizza Bianca, winner of the Juvenile Fillies Turf and 2nd in her own seasonal return last month at Aqueduct, is under consideration for the Gr1 Coronation S. at Royal Ascot.

A beautiful, long-striding filly with plenty of natural speed, Diamond Hands improved over the course of a three-race juvenile campaign, graduating by a comfortable two lengths in her 3rd attempt. The Hurstland graduate, bred in partnership by Brant Laue and Godolphin, was a $425,000 2yo-in-training purchase.

Love Cove, bred by the late David Cassidy and earner herself of just under $400,000 in both NY-bred and open company, delivered a Midshipman colt this season.

Matt Goins photo.