ST. THOMAS - Clinton E. Phipps Racetrack hosted racing for the first time in two months and it was worth the wait as fans got their money's worth Sunday.

Gallant Ruler, with jockey Junior Inirio at the helm, produced a time of 1:44.3 in the feature to beat two horses making their debut on the track.

St. John's It's Out There finished second and St. Croix's Lost River took third. It was Gallant Ruler's second straight win on St. Thomas.

The day's feature, which covered one mile and 70 yards, was the day's most controversial race. Dozens stormed the winner's circle after the race, pushing and shoving. They raised questions about a possible foul.

Police and security personnel were called in to separate the crowd and the results were upheld.

The race card started early Sunday afternoon with Wiseman Choice winning the Laquan Charleswell Handicap. The St. Croix horse ridden by Kevin Krigger, was victorious in a time of 1:36.2 over 7Γ‚ furlongs. Krigger, a Crucian, has made a name for himself in national racing circles.

Christian finished second, his best finish for the year on St. Thomas, and Cats Way placed third.

My Own Sky won the next race, the Kai Mercer Handicap, with a time of 1:35 over 7Γ‚ furlongs. My Own Sky, ridden by Kerwin John, edged out Summertime Babe and Suave Smile.

In the third race, Dashing Pirate returned to the winner's circle for the fourth time in his last five races on St. Thomas. Jockey Victor Lebron rode Pirate to a time of 1:47 over 1 1/16 miles.

Messes two Pieces finished second and Man the Torpedos took third.

In the Big Gyals Rule race - the trophy was sponsored by first lady Cecile deJongh - Bonnie Bonita won in its debut. Bonita, ridden by Krigger, produced a time of 1:41 over 1 mile.

Bold Cleo took second and Runaway Vow placed third.