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Bulletproof One in Speakeasy Stakes

ARCADIA, Calif. (Oct. 3, 2019) – Multiple stakes winner Bulletproof One, stakes winner Square Deal and fellow California-bred El Tigre Terrible are entered in Sunday’s $100,000 Speakeasy Stakes for 2-year-olds at Santa Anita. Bulletproof One is by Idiot Proof, out of the Decarchy mare Onefunsonofagun, was bred by Victory Rose Thoroughbreds & KMN Racing, is owned by Barber, Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners or Wachtel Stable and is trained by Peter Miller. He has three wins in four starts, earnings of $139,400 and is coming off a sixth in the Aug. 28 Generous Portion. Square Deal is by Square Eddie, out of the Jump Start mare North Freeway, was bred by Thomas Bachman, is owned by Arnold Zetcher Racing or Qatar Racing Limited and is trained by Simon Callaghan. He has one win in four starts, earnings of $78,300 and is coming off a win in the Oct. 30 I’m Smokin. El Tigre Terrible is by Smiling Tiger, out of the Gotham City mare King City Kitty, was bred by Martin Bach,... ...

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Cal-bred Trio in Surfer Girl

ARCADIA, Calif. (Oct. 3, 2019) – California-breds Cholula Lips, Smiling Shirlee and Warren’s Showtime are entered in Sunday’s $100,000 Surfer Girl Stakes for 2-year-old fillies at Santa Anita. CTBA January Sale graduate Cholula Lips is by Empire Way, out of the Rio Verde mare Sweet Lips Pooh, was bred by Terry Lovingier, is owned by Lovingier or Navarro and is trained by Mike Harrington. The $3,700 purchase at the CTBA January Sale has one win in four starts, earnings of $88,250 and is coming off a second in the Aug. 28 Generous Portion Stakes. Smiling Shirlee is by Smiling Tiger, out of the Grand Slam mare Whobetterthanus, was bred by Premier Thoroughbreds, is owned by Brown, Lebherz or Klein and is trained by Jeff Bonde. She has one win in two starts, earnings of $48,600 and is coming off a third in the Aug. 28 Generous Portion. Warren’s Showtime is by Clubhouse Ride, out of the Affirmative mare Warren’s Veneda, was bred by Benjamin Warren, is owned by Benjamin and... ...

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Club Aspen to Zuma Beach

ARCADIA, Calif. (Oct. 3, 2019) – Club Aspen is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $100,000 Zuma Beach Stakes for 2-year-olds at Santa Anita. Club Aspen is by Clubhouse Ride, out of the Talkin Man mare Aspen Gal, was bred by Harris Farms, is owned by Lawrence Lewis and trained by Craig Lewis. He has one win in three starts, earnings of $44,260 and is coming off a fifth in the Aug. 30 I’m Smokin. ...

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Baja Sur Heads South to Fresno

FRESNO, Calif. (Oct. 2, 2019) – Baja Sur risks his unbeaten record in Saturday’s $100,000 Harris Farms Stakes for Golden State Series eligible at Fresno. Baja Sur is a Washington-bred by California stallion Smiling Tiger, out of the Supremo mare Premo Copy, was bred by John Roche, is owned by John & Janene Maryanski or Gerald Schneider and is trained by Blaine Wright. He has won all four races with earnings of 87,450 and is coming off three consecutive stakes wins. Fashionably Fast is by Lucky Pulpit, out of the Foresty mare Fall Fashion, was bred by Harris Farms, is owned by Harris Farms, Per Antonsen & John Nicoletti. He has three wins in 12 starts, earnings of $185,745 and is coming off consecutive optional claiming wins. Summersimage is by Slew’s Tiznow, out of the Siberian Summer mare Summer Swimmer, was bred by owner William Hedrick and is trained by Ricardo Perez. He has seven wins in 21 starts, earnings of $241,539 and is coming off a third in a... ...

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Prince Earl in City of Hope Mile

ARCADIA, Calif. (Oct. 2, 2019) – Grade II stakes winner Prince Earl is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $200,000 Grade II City of Hope Mile at Santa Anita. Prince Earl is by Paddy O’Prado, out of the Unusual Heat mare Soo Steamy, was bred by Madeline Auerbach & Harris Farms, is owned by Old Bones Racing Stable or Marshall and is trained by Phil D’Amato. He has three wins in five starts, earnings of $224,778 and is coming off a win in the Aug. 18 Del Mar Mile ...

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Show It N Moe It in L.A. Woman Stakes

ARCADIA, Calif. (Oct. 2, 2019) – Stakes winner Show It N Moe It and fellow California-bred Streak of Luck are entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Grade III L.A. Woman Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita. Streak of Luck is by Old Fashioned, out of the Elusive Quality mare Valeria, was bred by owner Roncelli Family Trust and is trained by Matthew Chew. She has five wins in 20 starts, earnings of $276,940 and is coming off a seventh in the July 19 Osunitas. Show It N Moe It is by Grace Upon Grace, out of the Ide mare Robotica, was bred by Terry Lovingier, is owned by London, Lovingier or Zondlo and is trained by Gary Sherlock. She has six wins in 24 starts, earnings of $482,407 and is coming off a third in an Aug. 22 optional claimer. She was third in this race last year. ...

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Super Patriot Takes Swing at Swingtime

ARCADIA, Calif. (Oct. 2, 2019) – Super Patriot is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $70,000 Swingtime Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita. Super Patriot is by Unusual Heat, out of the Redattore mare Patriot C H, was bred by Harris Farms, is owned by Little Red Feather Racing, Peskoff, Salvatore, et al and is trained by Richard Baltas. She has two wins in seven starts, earnings of $118,433 and is coming off an Aug. 30 optional claiming win. ...

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Spiced Perfection Returns at Keeneland

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Oct. 2, 2019) – California-bred multiple Grade I winner Spiced Perfection is entered in Saturday’s $250,000 Grade II Thoroughbred Club of America Stakes for fillies and mares at Keeneland. Spiced Perfection is by Smiling Tiger, out of the Pleasantly Perfect mare Perfect Feat, was bred by Premier Thoroughbreds, is owned by Pantofel Stable, Wachtel Stable and Peter Deutsch and is trained by Peter Miller. She has seven wins in 17 starts, earnings of $876,905 and is making her first start since a fourth in the May 4 Humana Stakes. She won the Madison Stakes at Keeneland in April. ...

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California Farm Managers Seminar Oct. 12

From California Thoroughbred Farm Managers Association TEMECULA, Calif. (Sept. 30, 2019) — Please save the date for our upcoming Horsemen’s Seminar day! On October 12 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., various horse experts and veterinarians will be presenting valuable information for every horse owner; Thoroughbred and other breeds. The event is free and lunch is included. It will be held at Milky Way Farm in Temecula. See us on the web at www.ctfma.net. ...

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Don’t Sell Rallies to Win Unzip Me

ARCADIA, Calif. (Sept. 28, 2019) – Don’t Sell rallied three-wide into the stretch and drew away to win Saturday’s $100,205 Unzip Me Stakes for 3-year-old fillies and at Santa Anita. Don’t Sell is by Square Eddie, out of the In Excess mare Too Much Excess, was bred by owner Reddam Racing and is trained by Doug O’Neill. “Square Eddies will sprint, route, turf and dirt,” said O’Neill. Don’t Sell has four wins in nine starts, earnings of $235,760 and was coming off a second in the Aug. 9 Solana Beach. ...

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Pee Wee Reese Stands Tall in Eddie D

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (Sept. 27, 2019)–Full of run while an attentive third around the far turn, Nick Alexander’s homebred Pee Wee Reese slipped through an opening turning for home en route to an impressive half-length win over favored Eddie Haskell in Friday’s Grade III, $200,000 Eddie D Stakes at Santa Anita. Ridden for the first time by Flavien Prat and trained by Phil D’Amato, Pee Wee Reese, named for the late Dodger Hall of Fame shortstop, got five furlongs on turf in 55.33, just .27 seconds off the track record set by Eddie Haskell on Feb. 22. Off at 5-2 in a field of eight 3-year-olds and up, Pee Wee Reese paid $7.00, $3.80 and $2.80. Bred in California, Pee Wee Reese is a 6-year-old full horse by Tribal Rule out of the Unbridled’s Song mare Bluegrass Belle. In notching his second graded stakes win, Pee Wee Reese is now 15-8-2-1 and with the winner’s share of $120,000, he now has earnings of $532,901. “When you see... ...

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Cal-bred Yearlings Sell at Fasig-Tipton

By Thoroughbred Daily News POMONA, Calif. (Sept. 26, 2019) — A California-bred colt by two-time GI Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile winner Goldencents topped Thursday’s inaugural Fasig-Tipton California Fall Yearlings Sale in Pomona, bringing a final bid of $150,000 from Steve Gasparelli’s Slugo Racing. The yearling was one of six Cal-breds to sell for six figures during the one-session auction. In all, 137 yearlings sold for $3,667,800. The sale average was $26,772 and the median was $13,000. The Fall Yearling Sale was the second Fasig-Tipton auction of the year in California, following June’s Santa Anita 2-Year-Olds in Training Sale, as the sales company takes up the baton from the now-defunct Barretts. “All in all, it was a successful effort and something to build upon,” Fasig-Tipton President Boyd Browning, Jr. said at the close of business Thursday. “I think what we saw today is that there is a viable marketplace and that there was significant interest in a large number of offerings. I think it should give breeders confidence that, if they... ...

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Acclimate Seeks Another Graded Win

ARCADIA, Calif. (Sept. 26, 2019) – Multiple graded winner Acclimate, graded winner Grecian Fire and fellow California-bred The Street Fighter are entered in Saturday’s $200,000 Grade II John Henry Turf Championship at Santa Anita. Acclimate is by Acclamation, out of the Boundary mare Know No Bounds, was bred by Old English Rancho, Sal Berumen & Patsy Berumen, is owned by The Ellwood Johnston Trust or Timmy Time Racing and is trained by Phil D’Amato. He has six wins in 16 starts, earnings of $325,872 and is coming off a win in the Aug. 17 Del Mar Handicap. Grecian Fire is by Unusual Heat, out of the Kitten’s Joy mare Maddie’s Odyssey, was bred by owner KMN Racing and is trained by J.K. Desormeaux. He has six wins in 26 starts, earnings of $408,202 and is coming off a third in the Aug. 18 Del Mar Mile. The Street Fighter is by Street Boss, out of the Alphabet Soup mare Silver Swallow, was bred by Bruce Headley & Andrew Molasky and... ...

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Cal-bred Quartet in Unzip Me Stakes

ARCADIA, Calif. (Sept. 26, 2019) – Graded winner Apache Princess and fellow California-breds Don’t Sell, Fantasy Heat and Stealthediamonds are entered in Saturday’s $75,000 Unzip Me Stakes for 3-year-old fillies at Santa Anita. Apache Princess is by Unusual Heat, out of the Indian Charlie mare Puskita, was bred by owner KMN Racing and is trained by J.K. Desormeaux. She has three wins in 11 starts, earnings of $230,662 and is coming off an 11th in the Aug. 17 Del Mar Oaks. Don’t Sell is by Square Eddie, out of the In Excess mare Too Much Excess, was bred by owner Reddam Racing and is trained by Doug O’Neill. She has three wins in eight starts, earnings of $174,260 and is coming off a second in the Aug. 9 Solana Beach. Fantasy Heat is by Unusual Heat, out of the Broken Vow mare Assure, was bred by Paula Capestro Bloodstock & Woodbridge Farm, is owned by Drummond, Riso or Schwartz, et al and is trained by Mark Glatt. She has three... ...

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Fasig-Tipton Fall Sale on Thursday

By Thoroughbred Daily News POMONA, Calif. (Sept. 26, 2019) — The inaugural Fasig-Tipton California Fall Yearlings Sale will be held Thursday at Fairplex in Pomona, with bidding on the first of 285 catalogued yearlings scheduled to begin at 12 p.m. PT. The Fairplex sales grounds, which last saw auction action with the CTBA sale in January, was crowded with shoppers Wednesday morning. “It’s been a ridiculous amount of traffic,” said Adrian Gonzalez of Checkmate Thoroughbreds. “We were swamped Tuesday and they are already hitting us pretty hard this morning. It’s super, super encouraging seeing the turnout so far and we still have a whole other day to go.” With training hours still underway on the West Coast, Gonzalez said, “Mostly we’ve been showing to pinhookers. We haven’t seen very many California guys here yet, so it’s been mostly out-of-towners doing all-shows here so far.” Fasig-Tipton conducted its first Santa Anita 2-Year-Olds in Training Sale in June and the catalogue included a very limited number of Florida-based consignors. With a strong... ...

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Been Studying Her Gets Grade I Test

ARCADIA, Calif. (Sept. 24, 2019) – Been Studying Her is the lone California-bred entered in Friday’s $300,000 Grade I Chandelier Stakes for 2-year-old fillies at Santa Anita. Been Studying Her is by Fast Anna, out of the Kitten’s Joy mare Maddie’s Odyssey, was bred by owner KMN Racing and is trained by Dan Ward. She has won both starts with earnings of $77,280 and is coming off a win in the Aug. 28 Generous Portion. ...

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Stakes-winning Cal-bred Trio in Eddie D

ARCADIA, Calif. (Sept. 24, 2019) – California-bred stakes winners Eddie Haskell, Pee Wee Reese and Tribalist are entered in Friday’s $200,000 Grade II Eddie D Stakes at Santa Anita. Grade III winner Eddie Haskell is by Square Eddie, out of the Boston Harbor mare Teresa Ann, was bred by Reddam Racing, is owned by Hailey or Wood and is trained by Mark Glatt. He has 10 wins in 23 starts, earnings of $587,707 and is coming off a second in the Aug. 17 Green Flash. Grade III winner Pee Wee Reese is by Tribal Rule, out of the Unbridled’s Song mare Bluegrass Belle, was bred by owner Nick Alexander and is trained by Phil D’Amato. He has seven wins in 14 starts, earnings of $412,901 and is making his first start since winning the Mar. 31 Sensational Star. Tribalist is by Tribal Rule, out of the Cee’s Tizzy mare Ultimate Summer, was bred by Dutko & Abrams, is owned by Abrams, Dutko or Paran and is trained by Blake Heap.... ...

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One Son of a Chief in Remington Green

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. (Sept. 25, 2019) – One Son of a Chief is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Remington Green Stakes at Remington Park. One Son of a Chief is by Bold Chieftain, out of the Decarchy mare Onefunsonofagun, was bred by Ellen Jackson, Kevin Nish and Kim Nish and is owned by trainer Steve Williams. He has five wins in 31 starts, earnings of $88,667 and is coming off a fourth in a Sept. 5 optional claimer. ...

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Coal Front Takes Parx Dirt Mile

By Bloodhorse.com BENSALEM, Pa. (Sept. 21, 2019) — Rebounding from a third-place finish in the Monmouth Cup Stakes (G3), Coal Front turned back a second-turn bid from Diamond King and inched clear from that rival for a three-quarter-length victory in the $153,500 Parx Dirt Mile Stakes Sept. 21 on the Pennsylvania Derby (G1) undercard. Under Hall of Fame jockey Mike Smith, the Kentucky-bred son of California stallion Stay Thirsty sped to the early lead, setting relatively easy opening splits of :23.90 and :47.34. Then as the six-horse field advanced down the backstretch, Diamond King, who was perched on the outside, dialed up the pressure. He cut into Coal Front’s lead before poking a neck in front with a six-furlong split in 1:11.63. Smith had something saved aboard his mount, and under urging down the lane, Coal Front asserted his superiority over the final furlong. He hit the wire with his ears pricked, finishing in 1:37.53 for a mile on a fast track at Parx Racing. Diamond King, winner of last... ...

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CHRB Meeting Summary

From CHRB LOS ALAMITOS, Calif. (Sept. 20, 2019) – The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Thursday, September 19, at Los Alamito Racecourse. Vice Chair Madeline Auerbach presided. Commissioners Alex Solis, Fred Maas, Dennis Alfieri, Gregory Ferraro, DVM, Oscar Gonzalez and Wendy Mitchell also were in attendance. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link. In brief: Vice Chair Auerbach began the meeting by thanking former Chairman Chuck Winner, who’s term had expired, for his nearly eight years of service on the Board. Ms. Auerbach and Rick Baedeker, Executive Director, paid tribute to Mr. Winner’s expertise, integrity and untiring work on behalf of the industry in general and the health and safety of the racehorse and rider in particular. Ms. Auerbach then welcomed both Wendy Mitchell and Oscar Gonzales, both of whom Governor Gavin Newsom appointed to the Board on September 10. Wendy Mitchell, who earned a Master of Public Administration degree from the University of Southern California,... ...

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Dapper Returns in Capote Stakes

From Los Alamitos Publicity CYPRESS, Calif. (Sept. 18, 2019) – A 16-1 winner in his debut last month, California-bred Dapper will seek a repeat in the inaugural $75,000 Capote Stakes Saturday at Los Alamitos. Scheduled for 6 ½ furlongs and restricted to 2-year-olds, the Capote is the eighth of 10 races. Post time Saturday is 1 p.m. Scheduled post time for the Capote is 4:28 p.m. Trained by Gary Stute for owner-breeder Bo Hirsch, Dapper kicked clear from fellow state breds to score by 2 ¼ lengths Aug. 30. A son of Papa Clem and the Bernstein mare Well Polished, Dapper earned $36,600 for the victory. He worked five furlongs in 1:02 since the race Sept. 11 at Santa Anita. California-bred Tap Back, who finished third in the I’m Smokin Stakes Aug. 30, will make his Los Alamitos debut for owner and co-breeder Richard Barton and trainer Jeff Bonde. The son of Einstein and the Tapit mare Tap Tap Ur t scored a 15-1 surprise in his Aug. 16 debut... ...

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Cal-bred Sells for $140,000 at Keeneland

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Sept. 15, 2019) – A California-bred filly by Distorted Humor sold for $140,000 at Sunday’s session of the Keeneland September Yearling Session. The filly, out of the Super Saver mare Super Savvy, was bred by Straight Fire LLC, consigned by Bedouin Bloodstock and purchased by Bruno DeBerdt, agent. ...

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Sir Dancealot Wins at Doncaster

DONCASTER, England (Sept. 15, 2019) — Sir Dancealot, an Irish-bred son of California shuttle stallion Sir Prancealot, won Saturday’s Group II Hird Rail Group Park Stakes at Doncaster. Sir Dancealot is out of the Danehill Dancer mare Majesty’s Dancer and has 10 wins in 33 starts and earnings of $939,089. He won by 1 1/2 lengths at odds of 5-2. ...

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Natashas Excess Gets First Winner

ALBANY, Calif. (Sept. 14, 2019) – California stallion Natashas Excess was represented by his first winner on Saturday when Tony’s Babe won the first race at Golden Gate. Tony’s Babe is a 4-year-old filly out of the Memo mare T.G’s Babe, was bred in California by Dan Harralson and is owned by trainer Sergio Ledezma. He won at first asking in the maiden claimer and won by a nose at odds of 11-1 in the field of six. ...

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Craig Fravel Joins The Stronach Group

By Bloodhorse.com TORONTO, Alberta (Sept. 14, 2019) — Craig Fravel, Breeders’ Cup president and CEO since 2011, will depart the organization at the conclusion of this year’s Breeders’ Cup World Championships Nov. 1-2 to accept a position as The Stronach Group’s CEO of Racing Operations. In his new position, Fravel will assume management and oversight of all racing operations across Stronach Group-owned tracks and training facilities. In a release, TSG said Fravel will focus on implementing and enforcing global best practices and integrity standards for horse and rider safety in collaboration with key industry stakeholders while driving a new standard of excellence in Thoroughbred horse racing with a commitment to creating an unparalled experience for both horsemen and guests. “I am delighted to have Craig join our company at this pivotal moment in our sport,” Stronach Group chairman and president Belinda Stronach said. “Craig’s stellar reputation and proven track record of leadership will enable us to further our goal to become North America’s preeminent horse racing organization as we work... ...

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Cal-bred Sells for $100,000 at Keeneland

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Sept. 13, 2019) – A California-bred Ghostzapper colt sold for $100,000 at Friday’s session of the Keeneland Yearling Sale. The colt, out of the stakes-winning Smoke Glacken mare One Smokin’ Lady, was bred by Terry Lovingier, consigned by Taylor Made Sales, agent, was purchased by John Campo III and is a half-brother to the stakes-placed Smokem. ...

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Ty Green

By California Thoroughbred Ty Green has a good sense of humor, a trait that can carry him through lean times in the racing industry. He owns and operates SLO Racing Stable and explains, “I thought it would be funny to have something called ‘slow.’ It would confuse people.”  The name is really derived from Green’s job as a lawyer in San Luis Obispo. Since Green got into the breeding game just a decade ago, his horses have been far from slow. And while his breeding and racing stable improves each year, Green has turned his attention to the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association, where he now serves on the board. But Green didn’t start with horses. He started with pigs. “I grew up in the Santa Ynez Valley, where I had every animal except horses,” he said. “I had a pig operation with 200 pigs when I was 16.” Green made the leap from pigs to law via the University of Southern California, graduating with a degree in English literature before... ...

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NorCal Sale Grad Oliver Wins E.B. Johnston

CYPRESS, Calif. (Sept. 7, 2019) –Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Oliver won Saturday’s $75,000 E.B. Johnston Stakes for California-breds at Los Alamitos. Oliver is by Papa Clem, out of the Premiership mare Snobby Princess, was bred by Thomas Bachman, is owned by William Peeples and trained by Doug O’Neill. “I am very proud of him,” said assistant trainer Leandro Mora. “I talked to Doug this morning and he asked me which one of our horses I liked on the card today and I told him I liked Oliver. I like the way this horse is improving, so I felt confident. He’s just matured a lot as he’s gotten older.’’ The $30,000 purchase at the Northern California Yearling Sale has won two in a row – he romped to a five-length score in an optional claimer at six furlongs last month at Del Mar. He has four wins in 13 starts and earnings of $228,076. The 3-1 second choice in the field of eight horses bred or sired in California, Oliver... ...

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Jockey Club Considers Breeding Limit

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Sept. 6, 2019) — The Jockey Club board of stewards, concerned with the narrowing of the diversity of the Thoroughbred gene pool, today announced its consideration of a rule to limit the annual breeding of individual stallions starting with the 2021 breeding season.    The Jockey Club, established in 1894, is the keeper of the American Stud Book and maintains the Principal Rules and Requirements of the American Studbook in order to ensure the welfare of the Thoroughbred breed.   As has been widely reported, the size of the North American foal crop has diminished significantly, from 37,499 in 2007 to the 20,500 estimated for 2020.   In 2007, 37 stallions reported in excess of 140 mares bred each from a total of 3,865 stallions. By 2010, that number had declined to 24. Since then, the number has nearly doubled to 43 stallions reporting 140 or more mares bred from a population of stallions that now stands at less than one-half that of 2007.... ...

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Tiz a Minister Gets First Winner

By Bloodhorse.com CYPRESS, Calif. (Sept. 6, 2019) – From two named foals in his first crop, California stallion Tiz a Minister  was represented by his first winner when Vastly Deep scored on debut in a maiden claiming race Sept. 6 at Los Alamitos Race Course for trainer Steven Miyadi. Going 5 1/2 furlongs on the main track, Vastly Deep settled in midpack as early fractions clicked off in :21.72 and :45.66 for a half-mile. He took the lead a furlong from the finish and pulled away to win by two lengths. The gelding finished in 1:04.89 on a fast track. Off at odds of 21-1, Vastly Deep paid $45 for a $2 win bet. A homebred for BG Stables, the California-bred is the second winner from as many foals out of the Into Mischief  mare Miss Beastmode. Tiz a Minister, a 9-year-old son of Ministers Wild Cat who raced exclusively in Southern California, broke his maiden as a 2-year-old and returned at 3 to win the California Breeders Champion Stakes at... ...

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CTBA Board Member Clay Murdock Passes

From Rancho San Miguel SAN MIGUEL, Calif. (Sept. 5, 2019) — Rancho San Miguel is greatly saddened to announce the passing of our General Manager Clay Murdock on September 3, 2019. Clay was not only an incredible horseman, but he was an extraordinary man who touched the lives of those around him. He was 58. A viewing will be held at Kuehl-Nicolay Funeral Home in Paso Robles, California on Friday, September 13, 2019 from 4 p.m.-7 p.m. Funeral Services will be held in Atascadero, California at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints building on Saturday, September 14, 2019 at 2 p.m. Murdock was an member of the board of directors of California Thoroughbred Breeders Association. He broke into the business at the age of 12 as an exercise rider for his father’s race horses in Idaho and Montana. At 16, Murdock took out his jockey license and in his early 20s migrated to California, first galloping horses at Golden Gate, then coming south to head up a breaking... ...

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Shades of Victory Seeks Johnston Repeat

From Los Alamitos Publicity CYPRESS, Calif. (Sept. 4, 2019) – Shades of Victory, who scored an 80-1 upset in the 2018 E.B. Johnston Stakes, will try for a repeat in the $75,000 race Saturday at Los Alamitos. Restricted to 3-year-olds & up bred or sired in California, the one-mile Johnston is part of a stakes doubleheader on the second day of the Los Angeles County Fair meet. Six 3-year-old fillies will get together in the $75,000 Beverly J. Lewis at six furlongs. The Lewis is the fifth of nine races while the Johnston will go as the eighth.  Post time Saturday is 1 p.m. Owned by trainer Reed Saldana and bred by C-Punch Ranch, Shades of Victory led throughout in last year’s Johnston, holding off B Squared by a head with Edwards Going Left another head back in third. A son of Thorn Song and the Street Sense mare Sensible Girl, the 5-year-old gelding is winless in seven subsequent starts, most recently trailing in the grassy Green Flash Handicap Aug.... ...

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CHRB Meetings Changed

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Sept. 3, 2019) — The location for the California Horse Racing Board meetings that were scheduled to be in Arcadia on September 19 has been changed to Los Alamitos Race Course, beginning with the Dates Committee at 8:30 a.m. and followed by the monthly Board meeting at 10:30 a.m. The meeting of the Medication, Safety and Welfare Committee will remain at Santa Anita Park on September 18, beginning at 10 a.m. The public is encouraged to attend all three meetings. There will be an audio-only webcast of the Board meeting through a link on the CHRB website. The agendas will be posted on the website at least 10 days before all of the meetings. The packages of materials will be posted approximately six days beforehand. ...

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County Fair Meet Opens Friday at Los Al

From Los Alamitos Publicity CYPRESS, Calif. (Sept. 3, 2019) —The Los Angeles County Fair meet at Los Alamitos will begin Friday, Sept. 6. The 10-day season will continue through Sunday, Sept. 22 with racing conducted on a Friday-Sunday basis the first two weeks (Sept. 6-8 and 13-15) and Thursday-Sunday the final week (Sept. 19-22). Post time will be 1 p.m. The meet will include five stakes worth a combined $400,000, including a pair of new contests for 2-year-olds at 6 ½ furlongs. Fillies will compete in the $75,000 Phone Chatter Saturday, Sept. 14, one week before colts & geldings get together in the $75,000 Capote. The first Saturday of the meet – Sept. 7 – will feature a stakes doubleheader. Three-year-old fillies will run six furlongs in the $75,000 Beverly J. Lewis Stakes while California breds – 3-year-olds & up – will contest the $75,000 E.B. Johnston Stakes at one mile. The stakes schedule is completed by the $100,000 Los Alamitos Special, which will be run for the second time... ...

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Lynne’s Legacy Ships to Kentucky Downs

FRANKLIN, Ky. (Sept. 3, 2019) – Multiple stakes winner Lynne’s Legacy is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $500,000 Grade III Three Chimneys Ladies Turf Stakes at Kentucky Downs. Lynne’s Legacy is by Unusual Heat, out of the Steinlen mare Top of Our Game, was bred by Harris Farms, is owned by Richardson, Robershaw and Tucker and is trained by Doug O’Neill. She has six wins in 35 starts, earnings of $437,611 and is coming of a win in the Aug. 9 Solana Beach. ...

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More Power to Him in S.W. Randall Plate

VANCOUVER, B.C. (Sept. 1, 2019) – Stakes winner More Power to Him is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $50,000 S.W. Randall Plate Handicap at Hastings. More Power to Him is by Slew’s Tiznow, out of the Beau Genius mare Pundit, was bred by owner Brett Mason and is trained by K Cooper. He has six wins in 35 starts, earnings of $327,417 and is coming off a seventh in the Aug. 11 Longacres Mile. ...

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Whoop It Up In British Columbia Oaks

VANCOUVER, B.C. (Sept. 1, 2019) – Whoop It Up is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $100,000 British Columbia Oaks for 3-year-old fillies at Hastings. Whoop It Up is by Champ Pegasus, out of the D’wildcat mare Quick Approval, was bred by Richard Barton Enterprises, is owned by Century Horse Racing Club and is trained by Rodney Cone. She has five wins in 15 starts, earnings of $56,885 and is coming off a second in the Aug. 17 Century Casino Oaks. ...

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Shades of Victory Seeks Johnston Repeat

From Los Alamitos Publicity CYPRESS, Calif. (Aug. 31, 2019) – The $100,000 E.B. Johnston Stakes for California-breds will be part of a stakes double-header on Saturday, Sept. 7, the second day of the Los Angeles County Fair meet at Los Alamitos. Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert nominated four horses to the $75,000 Beverly J. Lewis Stakes. Restricted to 3-year-old fillies, the six-furlong Lewis will be the other part of the stakes doubleheader. The $100,000 E.B. Johnston Stakes will be one mile and includes defending champion Shades of Victory. Owned and trained by Reed Saldana, Shades of Victory was 80-1 when he wired the field in the 2018 Johnston, holding off B Squared by a head with Edwards Going Left another head back in third. A gray son of Thorn Song, the 5-year-old has won five of 25 and earned $150,170. The other nominees are California Journey, who scored in his Los Alamitos debut July 7, Chieftain’s Lad, Cruel Intention, Feeling Strong, Fire When Ready, Oliver, Smokey Image, Three Ay... ...

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Irish Heatwave Ships to Indiana

SHELBYVILLE, Ind. (Aug. 31, 2019) – Stakes winner Irish Heatwave is the lone California-bred entered in Wednesday’s $200,000 Caesars Stakes for 3-year-olds at Indiana Grand. Irish Heatwave is by Unusual Heat, out of the Broken Vow mare Irish Winnie, was bred by Moger Inc. & Neary Racing, is owned by Calumet Farm and is trained by J.K. Desormeaux. He has three wins in 10 starts, earnings of $203,284 and is coming off a fourth in a July 18 optional claimer. ...

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Cal-bred Pair in Juvenile Fillies Turf

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 31, 2019) – California-breds Warren’s Showtime and Acai are entered in Monday’s $100,000 Del Mar Juvenile Fillies Turf Stakes. Warren’s Showtime is by Clubhouse Ride, out of the Affirmative mare Warren’s Veneda, was bred by Benjamin Warren, is owned by Benjamin & Sally Warren and trained by Craig Lewis. She has one win in two starts, earnings of $43,920 and is coming off an Aug. 21 maiden win. Acai is by Square Eddie, out of the Distorted Humor mare Smoove, was bred by owner Reddam Racing and is trained by Doug O’Neill. She has one win in two starts, earnings of $51,051 and is coming off an eighth in the July 31 CTBA Stakes. ...

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G.G. Ryder, Lymebyrd in Rolling Green

ALBANY, Calif. (Aug. 31, 2019) – Multiple graded stakes winner G.G. Ryder and fellow California-bred Lymebyrd are entered in Monday’s $50,000 Rolling Green Stakes at Golden Gate. G.G. Ryder is by Chhaya Dance, out of the Storm Boot mare Stormy Gigi, was bred by Eagle Oak Ranch, is owned by Sergio Salquero and trained by Isidro Tamayo. He has 15 wins in 57 starts, earnings of $727,139 and is coming off a second in a June 21 claimer. He was third in this race in 2017 and second in 2015. Lymebyrd is by Limehouse, out of the Old Trieste mare Gorgeous Trieste, was bred by Javier Avitia, is owned by Don Brown & Guy Brown and is trained by Angelo Tekos Jr. He has five wins in 28 starts, earnings of $177,562 and is coming off an Aug. 16 optional claiming win. ...

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Square Deal Wins on the Square

From DMTC Publicity DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 29, 2019) — Square Deal, disqualified from victory as a 13-1 longshot in the Graduation Stakes August 2, gained a measure of redemption Friday with a decisive triumph in the featured $100,000 I’m Smokin Stakes for Golden State Series eligible two-year-olds. With leading rider Flavien Prat in the saddle, Square Deal rallied on the far outside turning into the stretch and went on to score by a length and three-quarters in 1:11.72 for the six furlongs on the main track. Bluegrass Faith, a 20-1 longshot, outfinished Tap Back for runner-up honors by three-quarters of a length with Pas de Panique checking in fourth in the field of eight runners. Phantom Boss, the 8-5 favorite, was seventh after breaking slowly. Withdrawn from the race were Riding With Dino, El Tigre Terrible and Big Returns. Square Deal, a son of Square Eddie bred by Thomas Bachman, owned by Arnold Zetcher and Qatar Racing and trained by Simon Callaghan, was a solid second choice at 2-1... ...

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CHRB Meeting Advisory

From CHRB ARCADIA, Calif. (Aug. 29, 2019) — The date of the California Horse Racing Board meeting that was scheduled for September 26 has been changed to Thursday, September 19. This meeting will begin at 10:30 a.m. The Dates Committee will meet that same morning at 8:30 a.m. The Medication, Safety and Welfare Committee will meet the previous day, September 18, at 10 a.m. All three meetings will be held at Santa Anita Park. ...

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Been Studying Her Upsets Generous Portion

From DMTC Publicity DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 28, 2019) — KMN Racing’s Been Studying Her, winner of a maiden race at Sacramento in her career debut, stepped into stakes company Wednesday to score an upset victory in the featured $100,000 Generous Portion Stakes for Golden State Series eligible two-year-old fillies. Sent postward at 8-1 despite the presence in the saddle of Hall of Famer Mike Smith, Been Studying Her surged to the lead in the upper stretch and tallied by a length and one-quarter in 1:11.56 for the six furlongs. Cholula Lips, also at 8-1, moved with the winner into the stretch but was unable to keep pace in the final stages while finishing two and one-quarter lengths ahead of third-place Smiling Shirlee. Wise Rachel was fourth. Unbeaten Bulletproof One, the 3-10 favorite on the basis of three impressive wins, including the CTBA Stakes, dueled for the lead until the top of the stretch and tired badly to be next-to-last in the field of seven fillies. Roses for Laura and... ...

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Griffin to Call L.A. Fair Meet at Los Alamitos

From Los Alamitos Publicity CYPRESS, Calif.  (Aug. 26, 2019) – Track announcer Chris Griffin will call the upcoming Los Angeles County Fair meet at Los Alamitos Race Course.   The 10-day season begins Friday, Sept. 6 and continues through Sunday, Sept. 22. During that span, Griffin, 38, will also call the nighttime action in place of the vacationing Ed Burgart.   Griffin, a California native, has called several meets in his home state including the Humboldt County Fair in Ferndale, the Alameda County Fair (Pleasanton), the State Fair in Sacramento and the Big Fresno Fair. Additionally, Griffin serves as the track announcer at Sam Houston Race Park in Texas and previously called at Portland Meadows in Oregon and Gulfstream Park West – formerly Calder – in Florida.   Prior to starting his career as a track announcer, Griffin worked with the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) and was master of ceremonies, public address announcer and did play-by-play for five years for the world renowned Harlem Globetrotters.   Griffin, who attended... ...

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Govenor Charlie Gets First Winner

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 25, 2019) – California stallion Govenor Charlie was represented by his first winner on Sunday when Side Street Dave won the fourth race at Del Mar, a maiden claimer for 2-year-olds. Side Street Dave is out of the Street Cry mare Jolly Days, was bred by Terry Lovingier, is owned by London, Lovingier or Zondlo and is trained by Gary Sherlock. Side Street Dave ran the 5 ½ furlongs in 1:07.73 and won by 1 ¼ lengths at odds of 6-1 in a field of 10. ...

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Phantom Boss, Big Return in Showdown

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 25, 2019) – Graded winner Phantom Boss and unbeaten Graduation Stakes winner Big Return are entered in Friday’s $100,000 I’m Smokin Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 2-year-olds at Del Mar. Shady Empire is by Empire Way, out of the Awesome Gambler mare River Kiss, was bred by Terry Lovingier, is owned by Brown Jr., Brown or Lovingier and is trained by Jeff Bonde. He has one win in three starts, earnings of $45,000 and is coming off a sixth in the Aug. 2 Graduation Stakes. Bluegrass Faith is by Bluegrass Cat, out of the Beau Genius mare Faith Colleen, was bred by Ballena Vista Farm, is owned by J. Kirk & Judy Robison and is trained by Peter Miller. He has one win in two starts, earnings of $30,000 and is coming off a fourth in the Aug. 2 Graduation Stakes. Phantom Boss is by Shackleford, out of the Street Boss mare Bossy Belle, was bred by Terry Lovingier, is owned by Bada Beng Racing,... ...

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Mind Control Wins in a Blanket Finish

By Bloodhorse.com SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. (Aug. 24, 2019) — In a dramatic photo finish involving three horses, Mind Control was declared the victor by a nose over a stout-closing Hog Creek Hustle and Shancelot in the $500,000 H. Allen Jerkens Stakes Presented by Runhappy (G1) Aug. 24 at Saratoga Race Course. The 3-year-old Kentucky-bred son of California stallion Stay Thirsty  is perfect in two starts at the Spa, having won last year’s Hopeful Stakes (G1) while on the front end. Hall of Famer John Velazquez gave him a stalking trip in the seven-furlong Jerkens, and he cut through horses late to get the win in a final time of 1:21.43. With Shancelot a strong 3-10 favorite, Mind Control paid $22.80. Shancelot, by Shanghai Bobby, ran off the screen July 28 in the Amsterdam Stakes (G2), winning by 12 1/2 lengths and getting 6 1/2 furlongs in 1:14.01. Owned by Ivan Rodriguez, Albert Crawford, and Michelle Crawford, he’s trained by Jorge Navarro. Perhaps the “Graveyard of Favorites” and an additional half-furlong got the best... ...

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CHRB Meeting Summary

From CHRB DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 23, 2019) — The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Thursday, August 22, at the Del Mar Hilton. Chairman Chuck Winner presided. Vice Chair Madeline Auerbach and Commissioners Dennis Alfieri, Dr. Gregory Ferraro, Fred Maas, and Alex Solis also were in attendance. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link. In brief: During public comment, the Board heard from a number of people expressing their views on animal rights, the importance of racetrack jobs, and other issues concerning the life of a racehorse. The Board approved a significant portion of the 2020 race dates calendar for Southern California thoroughbreds that was presented jointly by Santa Anita Park, Del Mar, and the Thoroughbred Owners of California. The Board approved four blocks of race dates and simulcast-only dates beginning at Santa Anita on December 26, 2019, through June 23, 2020, followed by Del Mar (July 5 through September 8), back to Santa Anita (September... ...

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Boat Trip Gets First Winner

By Bloodhorse.com ALBANY, Calif. (Aug. 23, 2019) –Special T Thoroughbreds’ freshman sire Boat Trip had his first winner from his first starter Aug. 23 when his gelded son Bettor Trip Nick held on by a nose to win a maiden claiming race at Golden Gate Fields. Trained by co-owner William Delia for his partners Gary Oetman and Ray Pagano, Bettor Trip Nick broke alertly and was guided to the rail by Catalino Martinez where he led through the first three-sixteenths of a mile but was pressured by Cartellate, who took over to post a quarter-mile in a quick :21.68. The half went in :45.74 with Cartellate leading the way. Although Bettor Trip Nick trailed in the stretch by 3 1/2 lengths, he was able to rally to get a nose in front just in time, completing the five furlongs over the all-weather track in :58.80. Bred in California by Running Horse Equine Training Center, which stood Boat Trip for his first two years at stud, Bettor Trip Nick is the third winner for his... ...

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Bulletproof One in Generous Portion

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 23, 2019) – Unbeaten Bulletproof One is the only stakes winner entered in Wednesday’s $100,000 Generous Portion Stakes for Golden State Series-eligible 2-year-old fillies at Del Mar. Multiple stakes winner Bulletproof One is by Idiot Proof, out of the Decarchy mare Onefunsonofagun, was bred by Victory Rose Thoroughbreds & KMN Racing, is owned by Barber, Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners or Wachtel Stable and is trained by Peter Miller. She has won all three starts with earnings of $137,400 and is coming off a July 31 win in the California Thoroughbred Breeders Stakes. Wise Rachel is by English Channel, out of the Smarty Jones mare Wise Impression, was bred by Richard Barton Enterprises, is owned by Allen Aldrich and trained by Quinn Howey. She has one win in two starts, earnings of $32,280 and is coming off a third in the July 31 CTBA Stakes. Vegan is by Square Eddie, out of the Momentum mare Charred Rare, was bred by owner Reddam Racing and is trained by Doug... ...

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Premier Thoroughbreds Wins TOBA Award

From TOBA LEXINGTON, Ky. (Aug. 22, 2019) – Phil Lebherz’s Premier Thoroughbreds has been named California state breeder of the year by the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association. Premier Thoroughbreds bred 2018 California-bred Horse of the Year Spiced Perfection and owns champion California stallion Smiling Tiger. The National Breeder of the Year and the National Small Breeder of the Year will also be revealed at the TOBA National Awards Dinner, to be held Saturday, Sept. 7, at Fasig-Tipton. James E. “Ted” Bassett will be presented with the TOBA Industry Service Award and John D. Gunther will receive the prestigious Triple Crown Breeders Trophy for homebred Justify. ...

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Two Thirty Five Wins Brubaker

From DMTC Publicity DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 21, 2019) — Two Thirty Five, a Kentucky-bred son of California stallion Stay Thirsty, hit the front in the last stride to nose out Leading Score and win the featured $89,201 Harry F. Brubaker Stakes Wednesday at Del Mar. With talented Del Mar newcomer Abel Cedillo in the saddle, Two Thirty Five, sent to the gate at 6-1, won by a nose over Leading Score, who was piloted by Martin Garcia at 9-2. Line Judge, the 9-5 favorite, was third, a length and one-quarter behind the runner-up and two and one-half lengths in front of Isotherm in the field of six older runners. Two Thirty Five, continuing the hot streak of trainer Richard Baltas, who won four races on Pacific Classic Day last Saturday, ran the mile on turf in 1:37.51 and returned $14.80, $6.40 and $3.40 while earning first money of $53,310 with his fifth win in 18 starts. Two Thirty Five, a five-year-old son of Stay Thirsty, is owned by Baltas, Tom... ...

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Lieutenant Dan Enters Pat O’Brien

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 21, 2019) – Multiple stakes winner Lieutenant Dan is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $200,000 Grade II Pat O’Brien Stakes at Del Mar. Lieutenant Dan is by Grazen, out of the Indian Charlie mare Excusabull, was bred by owner Nick Alexander and is trained by Steve Miyadi. He has four wins in nine starts, earnings of $304,020 and is coming off a win in the July 27 Real Good Deal. ...

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P Club in Mystic Lake Turf Sprint

SHAKOPEE, Minn. (Aug. 21, 2019) – P Club is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $50,000 Mystic Lake Turf Sprint Stakes at Canterbury Park. P Club is by Bushwacker, out of the Not For Love mare Sheila’s Prospect, was bred by Terry Lovingier, is owned by Jerome & Kristina Russell and is trained by Ryan Kenney. He has four wins in 34 starts, earnings of $145,189 and is coming off a seventh in an Aug. 2 allowance. ...

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Lieutenant Dan Has Another Option

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 22, 2019) – Multiple stakes winner Lieutenant Dan, who is also entered in Saturday’s Pat O’Brien Stakes, is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $100,000 Shared Belief Stakes for 3-year-olds at Del Mar. Lieutenant Dan is by Grazen, out of the Indian Charlie mare Excusabull, was bred by owner Nick Alexander and is trained by Steve Miyadi. He has four wins in nine starts, earnings of $304,020 and is coming off a win in the July 27 Real Good Deal. ...

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CTFMA Autumn Equine Fair Set for Oct. 12

From CTFMA TEMECULA, Calif. (Aug. 21, 2019) — The California Thoroughbred Farm Managers Association will hold its annual Autumn Equine Fair on Saturday, Oct. 12, at Milky Way Farm in Temecula, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. This free event will have many educational seminars and speakers, stallion showcase tables, equine-related vendors, conformation clinic, imprinting foals – weanling training, broodmare care, racing partnerships, starting young horses, feeding options, handicapping tips, racehorse retirement & retraining, horse emergencies, horse fire safety and evacuation and more. There will be a raffle of equine equipment, coffee provided in the morning and lunch. The event is sponsored by CTFMA and the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association. ...

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Chuck Winner Added to The Jockey Club

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Aug. 21, 2019) — California Horse Racing Board chairman Chuck Winner is one of six new members of The Jockey Club, it was announced on Wednesday. The others are Shannon Bishop Arvin, Gary Barber, Terry Finley, Pope McLean Jr. and Jaime Roth. Winner has served on the California Horse Racing Board since 2012 and as its chairman since 2013. He is also on the advisory board of the California Retirement Management Account. He has campaigned graded stakes winners including Magical Fantasy, La Force, Flamboyant, Domestic Dispute, I Want Revenge, Daytona, The Pamplemousse, Liberian Freighter, Fantastic Spain, and Walkslikeaduck in partnership. Winner is the founder of Winner & Associates, a public affairs and crisis communications firm, Winner & Mandabach Campaigns Political, a leading campaign management firm, and Winner Consulting Inc. ...

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CHRB Meeting Advisory

From CHRB DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 20, 2019) — The California Horse Racing Board will conduct its regular monthly meeting on Thursday, August 22, at the Del Mar Hilton beginning at 9:30 a.m. The public is encouraged to attend. An audio-only webcast of the meeting can be heard through a link on the CHRB website (webcast). The agenda and package of materials also are available on the website. ...

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Prince Earl Returns With Grade II Upset

From DMTC Publicity DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 18, 2019) — Unraced since last December, California-bred Prince Earl made an auspicious return to competition Sunday with a sparkling come-from-behind victory in the featured Grade II $200,000 Del Mar Mile. Patiently handled in striking position by jockey Geovanni Franco, Prince Earl was able to slice through between horses in deep stretch to take command and then withstood the late challenge of Sharp Samurai to score by three-quarters of a length. Sharp Samurai nosed out Grecian Fire for third money, with Ohio fourth another three-quarters of a length away. Bowies Hero, the 7-5 favorite, checked in fifth in the field of ten runners. Bombard was withdrawn. Prince Earl, a four-year-old son of Paddy O’Prado owned by the Old Bones Racing Stable of Andrew Molasky of Las Vegas, Nevada and Todd Marshall of Minersville, Utah, is trained by Phil D’Amato. “I thought a lot of him as a 3-year-old,” said D’Amato. “He had some unlucky trips in some pretty strong races his last two... ...

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Acclimate Wins and He’s In Breeders’ Cup

From DMTC Publicity DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 17, 2019) — California-bred Acclimate, masterfully-rated on the lead by jockey Florent Geroux, went to the front shortly after the start and won the marathon Grade II $250,000 Del Mar Handicap presented by the Japan Racing Association from wire-to-wire Saturday. Acclimate, winner of the San Juan Capistrano at Santa Anita in June, qualified for the Breeders’ Cup Turf at Santa Anita in November since the Del Mar Handicap is a “Win and You’re In” Challenge Series event. He was bred by Old English Ranch, Sal Berumen and Patsy Berumen. The five-year-old son of Acclamation, owned by the Ellwood Johnston Trust and Timmy Time Racing, set a comfortable pace in the mile and three-eighths distance test on the grass and had enough in reserve to score by one length in 2:12.71 over Oscar Dominguez. Ritzy A.P. was third, a length behind the second-place runner and a neck in front of Blended Citizen. The Great Day, the 9-5 favorite, was fifth, while 2-1 supported Marckie’s... ...

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Curlin to Mischief Gets First Winner

By Bloodhorse.com ALBANY, Calif. (Aug. 16, 2019) — Scott Herbertson’s Monstrodamous became the first winner for freshman sire Curlin to Mischief  Aug. 16 when he won a Golden Gate maiden claiming race by three lengths. The colt trained by Ari Herbertson broke his maiden in just his second start after finishing second in a maiden claiming event at Sacramento. In Friday’s five-furlong test on the all-weather track, Monstrodamous stalked the pace in second as a quarter-mile went in :22.40 and a half in :46.97. Driving through the stretch, Monstrodamous completed the distance in :59.71 on a fast track. The gray/roan colt was bred in California by Barbara Corey and Tony Citarella from the Rock Hard Ten mare Monstro Ness. Curlin to Mischief was bred in Kentucky by Clarkland Farm and is an unraced son of Curlin . Out of broodmare of the year Leslie’s Lady, he is a half brother to grade 1 winner and sire Into Mischief , four-time champion Beholder, and grade 1 winner Mendelssohn . Spendthrift Farm’s Into Mischief, by Harlan’s Holiday, is... ...

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California Fall Yearlings Sale Catalog Online

From Fasig-Tipton POMONA, Calif. (Aug. 16, 2019) — Fasig-Tipton has catalogued 285 yearlings for its California Fall Yearlings Sale, to be held on Thursday, September 26, at Fairplex in Pomona, California.  The sale will begin at 12 pm PDT. “Fasig-Tipton is excited to conduct our first yearling sale since we have returned to the California marketplace,” said Fasig-Tipton President Boyd Browning.  “Our inaugural two-year-old sale at Santa Anita this past June was an excellent launching point, and we look forward to building on that success in the yearling market.” “There is quality sire power in this catalogue, from both leading sires in California and nationally,” added Browning. The catalogue may now be viewed online, and will also be available via the equineline sales catalogue app.  Print catalogues will be available the beginning of next week. ...

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Cal-bred Trio in Del Mar Mile

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 15, 2019) – Grade I winner What a View, Grade III winner Grecian Fire and fellow California-bred Prince Earl are entered in Sunday’s $200,000 Grade II Del Mar Mile Handicap. What a View is by Vronsky, out of the Manilla mare Oceans N Mountains, was bred by Old English Rancho, Patsy Berumen & Sal Berumen, is owned by Finish Line Racing, the Ellwood Johnston Trust or Taste of Victory Stables and is trained by Phil D’Amato. He has eight wins in 28 starts, earnings of $921,706 and is coming off a third in the July 26 California Dreamin’. He was ninth in this race last year. Grecian Fire is by Unusual Heat, out of the Kitten’s Joy mare Maddie’s Odyssey, was bred by owner KMN Racing and is trained by J.K. Desormeaux. He has six wins in 25 starts, earnings of $384,202 and is coming off a win in the July 26 California Dreamin’. Prince Earl is by Paddy O’Prado, out of the Unusual Heat mare... ...

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Unusual Heatwave Gets First Winner

ALBANY, Calif. (Aug. 15, 2019) – California stallion Unusual Heatwave was represented by his first winner on Thursday when Always in Vegas won the second race at Golden Gate. Always in Vegas is out of the Tiznow mare Tizalwaysomething, was bred by Alexis Barba, is owned by Begley, Mathis, Panian and Porreca and is trained by Andy Mathis. The 2-year-old filly ran the five furlongs in 1:00.73 and won by three-quarters of a length at odds of 9-2 in a field of six. ...

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My Fol Enters Barbara Shinpoch

AUBURN, Wash. (Aug. 15, 2019) – My Fol is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $50,000 Barbara Shinpoch Stakes for 2-year-old fillies at Emerald Downs. My Fol is by Einsten, out of the Hennessy mare Kiss of Fire, was bred by Adena Springs & Richard Barton Enterprises, is owned by Tim Bankers and trained by Manuel Ortiz, Sr. She won her lone start July 28 with earnings of $10,175. ...

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Mucho Unusual, Apache Princess in Oaks

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 14, 2019) – California-bred stakes winners Mucho Unusual and Apache Princess, 1-2 finishers in the San Clemente Stakes, are entered in Saturday’s $300,000 Grade I Del Mar Oaks presented by The Jockey Club for 3-year-old fillies. Apache Princess is by Unusual Heat, out of the Indian Charlie mare Puskita, was bred by owner KMN Racing and is trained by J.K. Desormeaux. She has three wins in 10 starts, earnings of $230,311 and is coming off a second in the July 20 San Clemente Stakes. Mucho Unusual is by Mucho Macho Man, out of the Unusual Heat mare Not Unusual, was bred by owner George Krikorian and is trained by Tim Yakteen. She has four wins in seven starts, earnings of $372,680 and is coming off three consecutive wins. ...

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Cal-bred Pair in Del Mar Handicap

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 14, 2019) – California-bred stakes winners Marckie’s Water and Acclimate are entered in Saturday’s $250,000 Grade II Del Mar Handicap. Marckie’s Water is by Tribal Rule, out of the Stravinsky mare Russian River, was bred by Frank Mermenstein & Tom McCrocklin, is owned by Little Red Feather Racing or Taveras and is trained by Richard Baltas. He has six wins in 19 starts, earnings of $516,683 and is coming off a second in the July 21 Eddie Read. Acclimate is by Acclamation, out of the Boundary mare Knows No Bounds, was bred by Old English Ranch, Sal Berumen & Patsy Berumen, is owned by The Ellwood Johnston Trust or Timmy Time Racing and is trained by Phil D’Amato. He has five wins in 15 starts, earnings of $175,872 and is coming off an 11th in the July 26 California Dreamin’. ...

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Parking Permit in Canadian Derby

CALGARY, Alberta (Aug. 14, 2019) – Parking Permit is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $250,000 Grade III Canadian Derby for 3-year-olds at Century Downs. Parking Permit is by James Street, out of the Eddington mare Rossi Reserve, was bred by Robert Harmon, is owned by Mohamad Khan and is trained by James Brown. He has two wins in 16 starts, earnings of $45,085 and is coming off a fifth in a July 27 allowance. ...

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Fleet Treat Rematch in Torrey Pines

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 14, 2019) – California-bred stakes winners Hollywood Hills and Sneaking Out, 1-2 finishers in the recent Fleet Treat Stakes, are entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Torrey Pines Stakes for 3-year-old fillies at Del Mar. Sneaking Out is by Indian Evening, out of the Kitten’s Joy mare Maddie’s Odyssey, was bred by owner KMN Racing and is trained by J.K. Desormeaux. She has three wins in seven starts, earnings of $270,980 and is coming off a second in the July 18 Fleet Treat Stakes. Hollywood Hills is by Hoorayforhollywood, out of the Malibu Mood mare Two Faced Moon, was bred by owner George Krikorian and is trained by Steve Sherman. She has six wins in 11 starts, earnings of $188,168 and is coming off a win in the July 18 Fleet Treat. ...

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Stakes-winning Pair in Green Flash

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 14, 2019) – California-bred stakes winners Eddie Haskell and Shades of Victory risk their win streaks in Saturday’s $100,000 Grade III Green Flash Handicap at Del Mar. Shades of Victory is by Thorn Song, out of the Street Sense mare Sensible Girl, was bred by C-Punch Ranch and is owned by trainer Reed Saldana. He has five wins in 24 starts, earnings of $149,819 and is making his first start since a fifth in the Mar. 3 Tiznow. Eddie Haskell is by Square Eddie, out of the Boston Harbor mare Teresa Ann, was bred by Reddam Racing, is owned by Hailey or Wood and is trained by Mark Glatt. He has 10 wins in 22 starts, earnings of $567,707 and is coming off a three consecutive wins. ...

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Whoop It Up in Century Casino Oaks

CALGARY, Alberta (Aug. 14, 2019) — Whoop It Up is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Century Casino Oaks for 3-year-old fillies at Century Downs. Whoop It Up is by Champ Pegasus, out of the D’wildcat mare Quick Approval, was bred by Richard Barton Enterprises, is owned by Century Horse Racing Club and is trained by Rodney Cone. She has five wins in 14 starts, earnings of $43,021 and is coming off consecutive optional claiming wins. ...

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NorCal Sale Grad in CTT and TOC Stakes

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 12, 2019) – Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Lostintranzlation is the lone California-bred entered in Friday’s $85,000 CTT and TOC Stakes for fillies and mares at Del Mar. Lostintranzlation is by Lucky Pulpit, out of the Stormy Atlantic mare Granny Got Game, was bred by Lilley Ranch, is owned by Hendrickson, Hesz or McClanahan and is trained by Richard Baltas. The $18,000 purchase at the Northern California Yearling Sale has three wins in 13 starts, earnings of $173,805 and is coming off consecutive optional claiming wins. ...

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Mr. Big Colt Tops NorCal Sale

RESULTS: https://ctba.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/2019CTBASales.pdf PLEASANTON, Calif. (Aug. 13, 2019) — A Mr. Big colt brought $45,000 to top Tuesday’s Northern California Yearling and Horses of Racing Age Sale at the Alameda County Fairgrounds. The colt, out of the Into Mischief mare Perched, was consigned by Harris Farms and purchased by Legacy Ranch. Right behind the topper was a Tamarando colt that sold to Lawrence Lewis for $44,000. He was out of the Talkin Man mare Aspen Gal and also was consigned by Harris Farms. The sale showed increases over last year’s sale in average and median, fueled in large part by yearlings sired by some of the state’s fashionable stallions like Mr. Big and Tamarando. The two highest-priced fillies went for $30,000. One was by Tamarando, out of the Ole mare Chi Chi Nette, was consigned by Harris Farms and purchased by Reina Gonzalez. The other $30,000 filly was by Dialed In, out of the Mutakddim mare Nuffsaid Nuffsaid, was consigned by Woodbridge Farm, Agent, and was purchased by Harris Farms. ...

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My Grandpa Wins Muckleshoot Derby

From Emerald Downs Publicity AUBURN, Wash. (Aug. 11, 2019) — Overcoming a poor start, My Grandpa out dueled the gutsy filly Alittlelesstalk in a prolonged drive and scored by 1-¼ lengths in the $50,000 Muckleshoot Derby at Emerald Downs. My Grandpa, as Washington-bred son of California stallion Grazen, was ridden by Jorge Carreno at 123 lbs and paid $17, $6 and $4.20, Tom Wenzel is the trainer for owner Ron Crockett of Seattle. My Grandpa has two wins in six starts and earnings of $48,075. Alittlelesstalk dug in gamely when challenged by My Grandpa at the five-sixteenths pole and yielded grudgingly in the final furlong. Ridden by Scott Stevens at 118 lbs, Alittlelesstalk paid $3.60 and $2.80. Time ’n Time Again finished third and paid $6 to show, while Rally Cat, El Borracho, Sky Confidential and Todo Es Toro rounded out the order of finish. Rally Cat and Alittlelesstalk were co-favored at 3 to 2, although Rally Cat had a tad more money in the win pool—$23,050 to $22,423. Wenzel’s... ...

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Lynne’s Legacy Rallies to Win Solana Beach

From DMTC Publicity DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 9, 2019) — In a rousing finish, Lynne’s Legacy rallied from dead last to forge to the front in the final strides and win the featured $150,000 Solana Beach Stakes for Golden State Series eligible fillies and mares Friday at Del Mar. With Rafael Bejarano in the saddle, Lynne’s Legacy closed powerfully to win by a neck over 9-5 favored Pulpit Rider, with Don’t Sell third another head away and nose in front of Mo See Cal. However, the order of finish was revised by the board of stewards who posted the inquiry sign after the race. Upon viewing videotape, Pulpit Rider was disqualified from the runner-up spot for interfering with Fiery Lady in mid-stretch. Moved up to second was Don’t Sell, followed by Mo See Cal in third and A Walk in the Park in fourth as Pulpit Rider was demoted to sixth in the seven-horse field behind Fiery Lady. Withdrawn from the one-mile contest on grass were Battleground State, Donut Girl... ...

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Solid Wager Ships in for Longacres Mile

AUBURN, Wash. (Aug. 8, 2019) – Multiple graded stakes winner Solid Wager and fellow California-breds More Power to Him and El Huerfano are entered in Sunday’s $200,000 Grade III Longacres Mile at Emerald Downs. Solid Wager is by Birdonthewire, out of the Valid Wager mare G Ma, was bred by Madera Thoroughbreds, is owned by David Staudacher and is trained by Michael Maker. He has 11 wins in 54 starts, earnings of $857,970 and is coming off a fourth in the July 13 Michael G. Schaefer. More Power to Him is by Slew’s Tiznow, out of the Beau Genius mare Pundit, was bred by owner Bret Mason and is trained by Kay Cooper. He has six wins in 34 starts, earnings of $323,417 and is coming off a win in the July 21 Mt. Ranier. El Huerfano is by Tannersmyman, out of the Capsized mare Adriftinthebay, was bred by M.A. Douzos, is owned by Peerenboom-Bowyer Racing Stables and is trained by Chris Stenslie. He has nine wins in 45 starts,... ...

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Show It N Moe It in Rancho Bernardo

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 8, 2019) – Show It N Moe It is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $100,000 Grade III Rancho Bernardo Stakes for fillies and mares at Del Mar. Show It N Moe It is by Grace Upon Grace, out of the Ide mare Robotica, was bred by Terry Lovingier, is owned by London, Lovingier or Zondlo and is trained by Gary Sherlock. She has six wins in 22 starts, earnings of $471,604 and is coming off a fifth in the July 6 Great Lady M. ...

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Tivan Returns in Robert Dupret Derby

SANTA ROSA, Calif. (Aug. 8, 2019) – Stakes winner Tivan and fellow California-breds Our Bold Prince and Prospicience are entered in Sunday’s $50,000 Robert Dupret Derby for 3-year-olds at Santa Rosa. Our Bold Prince is by Bold Chieftain, out of the Souvenir Copy mare Grasp, was bred by Dwaine Hall & Eduardo Rich, is owned by Anderson, Gurnick, Rich or Spicer and is trained by Eduardo Rich. He has one win in seven starts, earnings of $44,354 and is coming off a fourth in a July 14 optional claimer. Prospicience is by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Cee’s Tizzy mare Moonlight Tizzy, was bred by Robert Jones & Stephen Post, is owned by O’Neill or Robershaw and is trained by M Lenzini. He has one win in three starts, earnings of $30,720 and is coming off a second in a July 28 optional claimer. Tivan is by Indian Evening, out of the Precocity mare Zak’s Precocious, was bred by owner KMN Racing and is trained by Steve Sherman. He... ...

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Reginella Seeks Emerald Distaff Repeat

AUBURN, Wash. (Aug. 8, 2019) – Defending champion Reginella is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $50,000 Emerald Distaff Handicap for fillies and mares at Emerald Downs. Reginella is by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Cahill Road mare Ghost Tree, was bred by owner DiPietro Thoroughbreds and is trained by Blaine Wright. She has four wins in 25 starts, earnings of $158,760 and is coming off a fifth in the July 21 Boeing. She won this race last year and was ninth in 2017. ...

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Cal-bred Stakes on Autumn Meet Schedule

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (Aug. 8, 2019) — A pair of stakes for Golden State Series eligible 2-year-olds are included in Santa Anita’s upcoming 23-day Autumn Meet, which opens Friday, Sept. 27 and will include the two-day Breeders’ Cup World Championships on Nov. 1 & 2. Santa Anita will again offer a pair of $200,000 stakes for horses bred or sired in California–the Golden State Juvenile and the Golden State Juvenile Fillies, both at seven furlongs on Friday, Nov. 1. In addition, Santa Anita’s Autumn Meet, which will conclude on Nov. 3, will offer fans and horsemen a full complement of world class racing highlighted by a total of 43 graded stakes–18 of which are Grade I events. For the first time ever, a total of three graded stakes, two of them Grade I Breeders’ Cup “Win & You’re In” qualifying events, will be carded on opening day. In addition to the traditional meet opener, the Grade II, $200,000 Eddie D. Stakes, the Grade I, $300,000 American Pharoah... ...

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Added California Duties for Aidan Butler

From The Stronach Group ARCADIA, Calif. (Aug. 8, 2019) — Continuing its push to reform and modernize horseracing, The Stronach Group today announced that Chief Strategy Officer Aidan Butler – a longtime technology, horseracing and gaming executive who spearheaded reforms at Santa Anita during its Winter meet – will additionally serve as Acting Executive Director of California Racing Operations. “Aidan has played a critical role as we have advocated for changes that redefine our sport for the better,” said Belinda Stronach, Chairman and President of The Stronach Group. “California continues to be a key priority for our company and Aidan’s presence on the ground will ensure that we continue to make progress addressing our industry’s challenges toward the modernization of our sport.” “Thoroughbred racing operations in California are at the forefront of the modernization of our sport and I am proud of the accomplishments that have been made across our racing and training programs,” said Tim Ritvo, Chief Operating Officer of The Stronach Group. “Aidan’s on-site leadership in California will undoubtedly build on The Stronach... ...

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Siblings Entered in Solana Beach

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 5, 2019) – Multiple stakes winner Pulpit Rider and her sibling Fiery Lady have adjoining posts in Friday’s $150,000 Solana Beach Stakes for Golden State Series-eligible fillies and mares at Del Mar. Mo See Cal is by Uncle Mo, out of the Lydgate mare Do Dat Blues, was bred by Rozamund Barclay, is owned by Rockingham Ranch or David Bernsen and is trained by Peter Miller. She has four wins in 13 starts, earnings of $176,904 and is making her first start since a fifth in a Feb. 7 optional claimer. Coco Kisses is by Empire Way, out of the Awesome Gambler mare River Kiss, was bred by Terry Lovingier, is owned by Brown Jr., Brown or Lovingier and is trained by Jeff Bonde. She has two wins in 16 starts, earnings of $169,098 and is coming off a second in the June 22 Dream of Summer. Battleground State is by Unusual Heat, out of the Moscow Ballet mare Freedom Dance, was bred by Harris Farms,... ...

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Bella Luma Wires Field in Luther Burbank

SANTA ROSA, Calif. (Aug. 3,2019) — Bella Luma, sixth in this race last year, went wire to wire to win Saturday’s $62,950 Luther Burbank Handicap for fillies and mares at Santa Rosa. Bella Luma is by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Bold Badgett mare Bold Roberta, was bred by Thomas Bachman, is owned by Fairview LLC and Linda Brown and is trained by Ed Moger Jr. She has six wins in 25 starts, earnings of $239,824 and was coming off a fourth in the June 22 Dream of Summer. Bella Luma ran the 1 1/16 on turf in 1:43.51 and won by one-half length at odds of 9-1 in a field of seven. ...

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Beau Recall Gets the Bob in Yellow Ribbon

From DMTC Publicity DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 3, 2019) — Beau Recall, an Irish-bred daughter of new California shuttle stallion Sir Prancealot, who as a three-year-old filly suffered a nose loss in the Grade I Del Mar Oaks, was on the right side of the photo Saturday as she edged longshot Storm the Hill by the narrowest of margins in the Grade II $200,000 Yellow Ribbon Handicap for older fillies and mares. With Drayden Van Dyke in the saddle, Beau Recall, now based on the east coast after competing in California for most of her early career, rallied on the rail in the stretch to win a head-bobbing decision over Storm the Hill, a 10-1 outsider piloted by Rafael Bejarano. Vasilika, the 4-5 favorite seeking her fifth victory without a loss this year, was a close-up third under highweight of 125 pounds, finishing a half-length farther back in third. Julien Leparoux piloted Vasilika in the absence of regular rider Flavien Prat who competed at Saratoga Saturday. Fourth in the field... ...

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Big Returns Wins Graduation by DQ

From DMTC Publicity DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 2, 2019) — Big Returns, the 6-5 favorite, was second under the wire in the $100,000 Graduation Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 2-year-olds on Friday but was elevated into first place when 13-1 longshot Square Deal, the original winner, was disqualified for causing interference in the stretch. Square Deal, with jockey Norberto Arroyo, Jr., in the saddle, reached the wire a length and three-quarters in front but drifted in late in the stretch, interfering with Pas de Panique, third at the end of the five and one-half furlongs, a length and one-half behind Big Returns. After viewing the videotape of the stretch run, Del Mar’s board of stewards disqualified Square Deal, placing him third and moving Big Returns into first and Pas de Panique to runner-up. Big Returns, piloted by Ruben Fuentes for owner William R. Peeples and trainer Luis Mendez, earned $57,000 with his second victory in as many starts. The winner, a son of Mr. Big bred by George Krikorian,... ...

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Lifesbeengoodsofar in Manitoba Derby

WINNIPEG, Manitoba (Aug. 2, 2019) – Lifesbeengoodsofar is the lone California-bred entered in Monday’s $75,000 Manitoba Derby for 3-year-olds at Assinboia Downs. Lifesbeengoodsofar is by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Globalize mare Life Is a Stone, was bred by Tommy Town Thoroughbreds, is owned by Garth Greider and Violetta Adamczyk and is trained by M Duncan. He has three wins in 13 starts, earnings of $48,521 and is coming off a second in the June 22 Golden Boy. ...

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Wrona to Replace Burgart at Los Alamitos

By DRF.com CYPRESS, Calif. (Aug. 2, 2019) — Michael Wrona will replace Ed Burgart as the year-round announcer at Los Alamitos beginning in December, the track announced Friday. Wrona, 53, will begin calling races at Los Alamitos during the track’s two-week daytime Thoroughbred meeting that begins Dec. 5 and will start calling the night-time Quarter Horse and lower-level Thoroughbred meeting on Dec. 27. The Quarter Horse and Thoroughbred meeting operates year-round on a Friday-through-Sunday basis. Burgart is retiring as track announcer Dec. 15, having held the position since the early 1980s. “It’s a great honor to be selected as Ed Burgart’s successor at Los Alamitos,” Wrona said in a statement released by Los Alamitos. “However, it’s also a somewhat daunting task because Ed personifies Los Al and is truly irreplaceable.” A native of Queensland, Australia, Wrona previously called races at Santa Anita from the spring of 2016 through the fall of 2018 before being dismissed last November. In the past, Wrona has called at tracks such as Arlington Park, Golden... ...

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Classy Papa Enters Manzano Stakes

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (Aug. 4, 2019) – Classy Papa is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday night’s $50,000 Manzano Stakes for 2-year-olds at Albuquerque. Classy Papa is by Papa Clem, out of the Tizbud mare Tiz a Classy Lady, was bred by Pamela Ziebarth and is owned by trainer Esteban Martinez. He is a maiden making his third start with earnings of $3,460. ...

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