State Fair Park's live racing meet is entering the homestretch, and David Anderson has just taken the lead in the trainer standings.

It took a big weekend by Anderson, though, to surpass Marv Johnson, who had been on top since the meet began in early May.

Anderson, from Ashland, is searching for his eighth straight training title at State Fair Park. He won nine races last weekend - including the $20,000 State Fair Futurity - to put his victory total at 29.

Johnson has 25 victories, and led Anderson by one win entering last weekend. Johnson's Bevys Dazzler is among the top horses at State Fair Park, with three victories and a third-place finish in five starts.

Anderson has won three stakes races, including two with Reach One More.

Eight live racing days remain at the Lincoln track, including today's 6:45 p.m. card. Racing on Friday, Saturday and Sunday will be at 2 p.m.

Luark fundraiser

State Fair Park will hold a fundraiser and silent auction on July 10 for jockey Mike Luark, who was seriously injured in a racing accident on May 24.

Luark, 20, suffered six broken vertebra, including one that was crushed. He underwent a 41/2-hour surgery the morning after the accident and had two rods and several screws inserted in his back.

Luark, who has a wife, Jess, and 6-month-old daughter, Holly, isn't expected back in the saddle until next year.

During the live races on July 10, fans can contribute by participating in the silent auction, with items donated by State Fair Park and other local businesses.

Briefly

* Chris Fackler leads the jockey standings with 45 victories, four more than Jesus Ponce. Fackler finished second at last year's meet with 39 victories.

* Weekend racing includes Saturday's $17,500 State Fair Board Handicap and Sunday's $20,000 Breeders' Special Fillies, a stakes race for 3-year-old fillies bred in Nebraska.

n The final day of live racing in Lincoln is July 12. Live racing will move to Omaha's Horsemen's Park for four days, July 16-19.

Reach Brian Rosenthal at brosenthal@journalstar.com or 473-7436.