Lightly Raced Old Pal in Snow Chief

May 25, 2023 Posted by CTBA In Uncategorized

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, CA (May 25, 2023)—Lightly raced but well at home on turf, Mark Glatt’s Old Pal appears a solid fit in his first stakes assignment as a field of seven sophomores try a mile and one eighth over the Santa Anita lawn in the $150,000 Snow Chief Stakes presented by City National Bank on Sunday. Named for one of the greatest California-breds of all-time and a winner of both the 1986 Santa Anita Derby and Preakness Stakes, the Snow Chief is part of the lucrative CTBA-sponsored Golden State Series for eligible California-bred or sired horses. Snow Chief, who was crowned Eclipse Champion 3-year-old colt for 1986 and who banked more than $3.3 million, was trained by the late Melvin F. Stute and Santa Anita is honored to have his widow Annabelle Stute present Sunday’s trophy. In a race in which nobody has been beyond a flat mile on dirt or turf, Old Pal, a dazzling 3 ½ length one mile turf winner two starts back... ...

Former Jockey Bobby Jennings Passes

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (May 25, 2023) — Bobby Jennings, a successful California-based jockey who won more than 1,100 races but was best known for being a racing anomaly as a six-foot rider, passed away at a care facility in Sacramento on Tuesday following a lengthy illness at age 79. A two-time winner of the prestigious Longacres Mile, in 1965 with Siempre and in 1966 with the Melvin Stute-trained Aurelious II, Jennings, whose nickname was “Skinny,” won stakes at both Hollywood Park and Del Mar but spent nearly his entire career as a regular at Northern California tracks such as Bay Meadows, Golden Gate Fields and the Northern fairs. “I’ve never seen a rider that was that tall and was as good a rider as Skinny,” said Arizona-based trainer Clay Brinson, who rode with Jennings in California in the 1960s. “There was a jock named Eldon Hall that was a little taller than Bobby, but he was probably the second-tallest jock I ever knew. “He was... ...

Big Switch Favored in Fran’s Valentine

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, CA (May 25, 2023)—John Sadler’s Big Switch takes a notable drop in class as she heads a field of seven California-bred or sired fillies and mares going one mile on turf in Sunday’s $100,000 Fran’s Valentine Stakes at Santa Anita. Owned and bred in California by George Krikorian, Big Switch, most recently third, beaten six lengths by multiple graded stakes winner Adare Manor going a mile and one sixteenth on dirt in Santa Anita’s Grade II Santa Maria Stakes April 29, has a win, two seconds and a third place finish, all on dirt, from four starts this year in open company. A close second to Adare Manor in a one mile allowance here on March 31, she’ll be reunited with Juan Hernandez, who was up for her most recent win, three races back on Feb. 18. A 4-year-old daughter of Mr. Big out of the Malibu Moon mare Two Faced Moon, Big Switch is a two-time statebred stakes winner who is 9-4-2-1 overall,... ...

American Farmer, Royal ‘n Rando Meet

ALBANY, Calif. (May 27, 2023) — California-bred stakes winners American Farmer and Royal ‘n Rando are entered in Monday’s $100,000 All American Stakes at Golden Gate. American Farmer is by Blugrass Cat, out of the Quiet American mare Farmers Wife and is owned by breeder BKB Stables and trainer Steve Sherman. He has six wins in 35 starts, earnings of $318,390 and is coming off a win in the Mar. 18 McCann’s Mojave. He was fifth in this race last year. Royal ‘n Rando is by Tamarando, out of the Grand Slam mare Royal Grand Slam, was bred by owners Mr. and Mrs. Larry Williams and is trained by Steve Specht. He has six wins in 18 starts, earnings of $201,644 and is coming off a sixth in the Jan. 30 Unusual Heat Turf Classic. ...

Desmond Doss, Positivity in Triple Bend

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 24, 2023) – California-bred stakes winners Desmond Doss and Positivity are entered in Saturday’s $200,000 Grade II Triple Bend Stakes at Santa Anita. Desmond Doss is by Grazen, out of the Malek mare Malley Girl, was bred by owner Nick Alexander and is trained by Steven Miyadi. He has seven wins in 22 starts, earnings of $430,911 and is coming off a fourth in a May 7 optional claimer. Positivity is by Paynter, out of the City Zip mare Sam’s Sunny City, was bred by Allen Farm, is owned by CTR Stables and Omar Aldabbagh and trained by Doug O’Neill. He has four wins in 17 starts, earnings of $288,792 and is coming off a third in the Apr. 22 Kona Gold. ...

Cal-bred Quartet Revs Up for Daytona

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 24, 2023) – Multiple stakes winner Indian Peak and fellow California-breds Lovesick Blues, Fast Buck and Burnin Turf are entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Grade III Daytona Stakes at Santa Anita. Indian Peak is by Comic Strip, out of the Roar mare Ms. Roar, was bred by Dr. & Mrs. William Gray, is owned by Wachtel Stable and Gary Barber and trained by Peter Miller. He has six wins in 30 starts, earnings of $455,122 and is coming off a third in the Apr. 23 Siren Lure. Lovesick Blues is by Grazen, out of the Ministers Wild Cat mare Queenofhercastle, was bred by owner Nick Alexander and is trained by Steven Miyadi. He has seven wins in 22 starts, earnings of $281,462 and is coming off back-to-back wins. Fast Buck is by Gallant Son, out of the Falstaff mare Zorra Roja, was bred by Daehling Ranch, is owned by Zephyr Racing, Peter Cruz and trainer Cesar DeAlba. He has four wins in eight starts, earnings of $215,474 and... ...

Passarando, Cousin Richie Enter Alcatraz

ALBANY, Calif. (May 25, 2023) – Stakes winner Passarando and fellow California-bred Cousin Richie are entered in Sunday’s $75,000 Alcatraz Stakes at Golden Gate. Passarando is by Tamarando, out of the Lucky Pulpit mare I’m Passing Ya Now, was bred by owners Mr. & Mrs. Larry Williams and is trained by Steven Specht. He has four wins in 10 starts, earnings of $248,830 and is coming off a fifth in the Apr. 29 California Derby. Cousin Richie is by Richard’s Kid, out of the Tapizar mare Crown on Tap, was bred by owner Larry Odbert and is trained by Sergio Ledezma. He has two wins in five starts, earnings of $36,900 and is coming off a third in the Apr. 30 Silky Sullivan. ...

NTRA Annual Report Online

From NTRA The NTRA’s Legislative annual report is now available. Click here to view. Features of the Legislative annual report include: A federal legislative summary of issues that affect horse racing and breeding A list of contributors to the NTRA’s Legislative Action Campaign through the ¼% Check-off Program and other related NTRA fundraising programs Calendars of NTRA sale company partners Biographies of NTRA Legislative team members Member discount information from NTRA partners (John Deere, Big Ass Fans, Sherwin-Williams, ODP Business Solutions and Farmers Insurance) Thank you to all who supported the NTRA’s federal legislative effort in Washington, DC, by giving to the ¼% Check-off Program, the Foal Program, the National Horseplayers Championship (NHC) Tour or through a direct contribution. Please share this report with others who have an interest in Thoroughbred racing and breeding and share your enthusiasm for the industry. ...

CHRB Issues Equine Shipping Advisory

Message from Dr. Jeff Blea and the CHRB Attention horsemen: please read this important message from Dr. Jeff Blea and the CHRB: Recently, there have been 15 new Vesicular Stomatitis Virus affected equine premises identified (4 confirmed positive, 11 suspect) in southern California. Due to the threat of a potential outbreak, effective immediately, all horses shipping into San Luis Rey Downs, Los Alamitos, and Santa Anita Racetrack from within California, shall be accompanied by a certificate of veterinary inspection with the following statement until further notice: “I have examined all the animals identified on this certificate within 14 days of the shipment date and have found them to be free from signs of vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV). During the last 14 days, these animals have not been exposed to VSV nor located on a VSV-confirmed or VSV-suspected premises.” ...

NorCal Sale Grad Wins Debut at Parx

BENSALEM, Pa. (May 23, 2023) – Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Yo Yo Candy won at first asking on Tuesday in the first race at Parx Racing, a maiden special weight for 2-year-olds. Yo Yo Candy is by Danzing Candy, out of the Two Punch mare Yolando B. Too, was bred by Checkmate Thoroughbreds, is owned by Happy Tenth Stable and trained by Daniel Velazquez. Yo Yo Candy ran the 4 ½ furlongs in :53.64 and won by three lengths at odds of 3-1 in a field of six. He sold for $6,000 at the Northern California Yearling Sale and resold for $35,000 at the OBS March 2-Year-Old in-training Sale. ...

Crazy Hot in Freakish Debut Rout

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (May 21, 2023) — Longtime trainer Jeff Bonde reported all was well with the promising 2-year-old filly Crazy Hot after her sparkling 10 ¾-length debut win here Saturday for owners Rusty Brown and Cory Thabit. “Everything is well. She looks good,” Bonde said from Clocker’s Corner. Crazy Hot was bet down to the 9-5 favorite for her debut in Saturday’s third race, a 4 ½-furlong dash for Cal-bred 2-year-old fillies. She did not disappoint. The daughter of Kentucky-based stallion Goldencents chased the early pace after breaking from the outside stall under Geovanni Franco. But at about the three-eighths pole, Crazy Hot unleashed a sweeping move to blow past the field. She continued to extend her advantage through the stretch before crossing the wire in a final time of 52.44 seconds. Crazy Hot was purchased by Bonde last year for $75,000 at the Fasig-Tipton California Fall Yearlings and Horses of All Ages Sale. She is campaigned by Rusty Brown and Cory Thabit.... ...

Recalcitrant is Stallion Pavel’s First Winner

From Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (May 20, 2023) — Recalcitrant became the first winner for freshman sire Pavel when she took a California-bred $61,500 maiden special weight race by 4 1/4 lengths at Santa Anita Park May 20. The Reddam Racing homebred trained by Doug O’Neill, led from start to finish in the 4 1/2-furlong dirt race, timed in :52.80 under Mario Gutierrez on a fast track. She returned $3.40 to win after having been second in her debut April 29 at Santa Anita. Pushiness , the morning-line favorite, was scratched. Pavel also raced for the same connections as Recalcitrant, winner of the 2018 Stephen Foster Handicap (G1) at Churchill Downs in his top achievement. The former also won a maiden race at Santa Anita and the Smarty Jones Stakes (G3) at Parx Racing as a 3-year-old in 2017. The son of Creative Cause retired from racing in 2019 with a 3-1-2 record in 18 starts with earnings of over $2 million. Pavel entered stud in 2020 and stands this year for an advertised fee of $4,000 at Ocean Breeze Ranch in Bonsall, Calif. Reddam Racing also campaigned Recalcitrant’s... ...

McCarthy Unveils Another Repole Cal-bred

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (May 19, 2023) — High-profile owner Mike Repole is a born and raised New Yorker whose vast racing stable typically competes on the eastern and Midwest circuits. But in recent years, the founder of VitaminWater has increasingly dabbled with California-breds. Repole’s California presence will be on full display Saturday with first-time starter Pushiness, a 2-year-old filly by Kantharos who debuts in the opener for trainer Michael McCarthy. Repole purchased Pushiness for $115,000 at last year’s Fasig-Tipton California Fall Yearlings and Horses of All Ages Sale. McCarthy’s relationship with Repole dates to McCarthy’s time serving as an assistant for Hall of Famer Todd Pletcher, who is Repole’s main trainer in New York. Repole and Pletcher had the morning-line favorite for this year’s Kentucky Derby, Forte, but that colt was scratched the morning of the race. McCarthy says he currently has a “handful” of California-bred 2-year-olds owned by Repole and more are expected in the coming days. “He likes the statebred program... ...

Big Summer has Big Shot in Mizdirection

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (May 17, 2023) – Dirt or turf, short or long, Big Summer seems to always run her race. On Saturday, trainer Carla Gaines hopes another of Big Summer’s typical performances will result in the mare’s first stakes win against open company in the Mizdirection Stakes on the hillside turf course. She is the slight 7-2 favorite on the morning line to do just that. “She’s just as consistent as they come, this mare. And she’s doing great,” Gaines said Friday morning. Bred in California by Bob Abrams and Mitchell Dutko, Big Summer is owned by her breeders along with Michael Paran. With an overall race record of 13-4-7-2, she has earnings of $355,160. Big Summer has never missed the board in 13 career starts. Her record includes four wins, seven runner-up finishes and two thirds. She will face several familiar foes in the Mizdirection. After winning the Sunshine Millions Filly & Mare Turf Sprint on... ...

Nominations for Gold Rush Close Thursday

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 17, 2023) — Nominations for the May 28 Gold Rush card at Santa Anita, races exclusively for California-bred and -sired horses worth nearly $1 million, close this Thursday, May 18. Included on the card are five stakes: The $150,000 Snow Chief Stakes for 3-year-olds at 1 1/18 miles on the turf; the $150,000 Melair Stakes for 3-year-old fillies at 1 1/16 miles on dirt; the $100,000 Thor’s Echo Stakes for 3-year-olds and up at six furlongs on dirt; the $100,000 Crystal Water Stakes for 3-year-olds and up at one mile on turf and the $100,000 Fran’s Valentine Stakes for fillies and mares 3-years-old and up at one mile on turf. Also scheduled to be run are two maiden special weight races and two allowance optional claimers. ...

CTBA January Sale Grad Enters Golden Circle

ALTOONA, Iowa (May 15, 2023) – California Thoroughbred Breeders Association January Sale graduate Kyandi is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $50,000 Golden Circle Stakes for 3-year-olds at Prairie Meadows. Kyandi is by Danzing Candy, out of the Bertrando mare Surf Dancer, was bred by Liberty Road Stables, is owned by Jordan Racing and trained by Todd Jordan. The $9,000 purchase at the CTBA January Sale has one win in three starts, earnings of $24,943 and is coming off an Apr. 29 maiden win. ...

Golden Gate to Experiment with Monday Cards

From DRF.com ALBANY, Calif. (May 15, 2023) — Golden Gate Fields will operate an 18-day late summer and autumn meeting on a Saturday-through-Monday basis this year, eliminating racing on Fridays during the six-week season that begins Aug. 26. General manager David Duggan said Sunday that a move to Monday racing will be an attempt to boost handle for the Northern California track on a day in which few tracks operate after Labor Day. “Until we try to change things a little bit, we won’t be moving the needle,” Duggan said. The season will conclude Oct. 2. The proposed schedule change must be approved by the California Horse Racing Board, which is expected to address the track’s application for that race meeting in July. Mondays, as well as Tuesdays, are the slowest racing day of the week as measured by number of tracks operating. Last September, Arizona Downs and Arapahoe Park were the only tracks in the west to race on Mondays. Arizona Downs does not have racing dates in 2023. During... ...

CHRB Meeting Summary

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (May 19, 2023) — The California Horse Racing Board conducted a meeting on Thursday, May 18, 2023, at Cal Expo in Sacramento. Chairman Gregory Ferraro chaired the meeting, joined by Vice Chair Oscar Gonzales and Commissioners Dennis Alfieri, Damascus Castellanos, and Brenda Washington Davis. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcastlink. In brief: In his report to the Board concerning the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act/Authority (HISA), Executive Director Scott Chaney said HISA’s Anti-Doping Medication Control program “is set to go into effect this coming Monday, May 22. As you may recall, before it was halted through a legal stay at the end of March, California participated in testing three race cards (two at Santa Anita and one at Golden Gate Fields) as well as some out-of-competition-testing (OOCT), mostly for removal from the Veterinarian’s List. After five days, the program was temporarily enjoined by a court in Texas. I believe we are prepared to begin the program anew... ...

TOC Names Rookies of the Year for 2022

From TOC ARCADIA, Calif. (May 12, 2023) — Thoroughbred Owners of California (TOC) has named two Rookie of the Year award winners for 2022. Winners Robert Katayama of Clovis and Lisa Rodrigues of San Diego were among 13 nominees for the award, which is designed to honor enthusiastic new owners that are committed to racing in California. The TOC owner relations committee considers nominations on an annual basis and was impressed by the 2022 list of nominees. “The TOC Owner Relations Committee looks forward to the Rookie of the Year nominations and awards each year,” said Owner Relations Chairwoman, Stephanie Hronis. “We celebrate new owners and their commitment and appreciation of the equine athlete. This year we are thrilled to recognize a Rookie of the Year for the north and the south – Robert and Lisa. To the winners and all nominees, congratulations and welcome to the owner community!” Robert Katayama, who races under TAK Racing, has horses in training with Jonathan Wong. He was introduced to the business by... ...

Pleasanton Mile Added as Richest Fair Race

By DRF.com PLEASANTON, Calif. (May 11, 2023) — The stakes schedule for the Alameda County Fair in Pleasanton, Calif., this summer has been enhanced to include the $150,000 Pleasanton Mile, a newly created race that will be the richest in the history of the Northern California fair circuit. The Pleasanton Mile will be run on July 9 for 3-year-olds and up at a mile and 70 yards. The race is part of the closing day of the county fair’s four-week meeting, which begins on June 16. The July 9 program will include the $75,000 Everett Nevin Stakes for 2-year-olds at 5 1/2 furlongs. “This is a chance to hopefully create a special day of racing,” said Tom Doutrich, Pleasanton’s racing secretary. The 13-day meeting will be run primarily on a Friday-through-Sunday schedule and will include racing on Tuesday, July 4, in conjunction with the holiday. Pleasanton will host four Thoroughbred stakes and one for Quarter Horses. The other Thoroughbred stakes are worth $75,000 – the She’s a Tiger Stakes for fillies... ...

Ready for a Fight Ready for Jacques Cartier

TORONTO, Ontario (May 11, 2023) – Ready for a Fight is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $150,000 Grade III Jacques Cartier Stakes at Woodbine. Ready for a Fight is by Boisterous, out of the Giant’s Causeway mare Irish Tart, was bred by Gary Barber, is owned by Paul Braverman and Timothy Pinch and is trained by John Charalambous. The 6-year-old gelding has seven wins in 18 starts, earnings of $223,405 and is coming off an Apr. 23 optional claiming win. ...

Don’t Get Pickled Enters Goldfinch Stakes

ALTOONA, Iowa (May 10, 2023) — California-bred stakes winner Don’t Get Pickled is entered in Saturday’s $50,000 Goldfinch Stakes for 3-year-old fillies at Prairie Meadows. Don’t Get Pickled is by Misremembered, out of the Successful Appeal mare C C’s Pride, was bred by Harry Keshian & Cheryl Keshian, is owned by Stable H. M. A. and trained by Kevin Eikleberry. She has two wins in nine starts, earnings of $101,588 and is coming off a sixth in the Apr. 8 Santa Anita Oaks. ...

Sir Prancealot Filly Caste Wins Group 2

From Racing.com ADELAIDE, Australia (May 6, 2023) — Ben and JD Hayes continued their affinity with the Adelaide Goodwood Carnival by winning the Group 2 Queen Of The South Stakes (1600m) with promising filly Caste, by California stallion Sir Prancealot. The three-year-old filly jumped $6.50 third-favourite and was set a task of overrunning Foxy Frida ($2.90F) in the run to the post but proved too strong under a perfect ride from Michael Dee who brought up a treble. It was a second successive Stakes victory in Adelaide for the Sir Prancealot filly, who won the Listed Nitschke Stakes (1400m) last start. “That was very impressive in what was a very hard race,” Ben Hayes said. “She came from the rear of the field and just attacked the line over a mile. “To win a Group 2 when she was so down in the weights – she was poorly weighted – it’s a very good effort.” Hayes said the paddock would likely beckon for Caste, who is unbeaten this preparation. “We’re going... ...

One in Vermillion

One in Vermillion wins $100,000 La Barrera Stakes. ...

One in Vermillion Wins Laz Barrera Stakes

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, CA (May 7, 2023) — California-bred One in Vermillion was resting comfortably at Santa Anita Sunday morning one day after upsetting the seven-furlong Lazaro Barrera for 3-year-olds. One in Vermillion’s 5 ¼-length win as the longest shot on the board was his fourth stakes win and first for trainer Eric Kruljac. The Army Mule colt, bred by Richard Barton Enterprises, made his first five starts at Turf Paradise and Sunland Park for trainer Esteban Martinez. Last year, he won the Turf Paradise Open Spring Futurity and Lost in the Fog Juvenile, also at Turf Paradise. He returned to win the Riley Allison Derby on Jan. 29 before running fifth in the GIII Sunland Park Derby. One in Vermillion joined Kruljac’s stable ahead of the GI Santa Anita Derby on April 8 where he ran fifth at 53-1. Cut back to an elongated sprint distance in the Lazaro Barrera, One in Vermillion broke in front under Hector Berrios and was never headed. He extended... ...

Chismosa, Tom’s Regret Enter Senorita

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 3, 2023) – Unbeaten Chismosa and fellow California-bred stakes winner Tom’s Regret are entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Senorita Stakes for 3-year-old fillies at Santa Anita. Chismosa is by Clubhouse Ride, out of the Cat Dreams mare You Can Dream, was bred by owner Jaime Renella and is trained by Rafael DeLeon. She has won all three starts with earnings of $190,500 and is making her first start since winning the Sept. 5 Generous Portion. Tom’s Regret is by Tom’s Tribute, out of the Quality Road mare Pure, was bred by DP Racing, is owned by Cinema Thoroughbreds, Beckerle, Michelle K., Carrillo, Saul, Flores, Victor M., Johnson, Burton and Zondlo, Eugene and trained by Steven Miyadi. She has two wins in five starts, earnings of $196,253 and is coming off a second in the Apr. 8 Evening Jewel. ...

One in Vermillion One of Four in Barrera

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 3, 2023) – Multiple stakes winner One in Vermillion is the lone California-bred in a field of four entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Laz Barrera Stakes for 3-year-olds at Santa Anita. One in Vermillion is by Army Mule, out of the Any Given Saturday mare Given Star, was bred by Richard Barton Enterprises, is owned by Jonathan Kalman and trained by J. Eric Kruljac. He has three wins in six starts, earnings of $182,440 and is coming off a fifth in the Apr. 8 Runhappy Santa Anita Derby. ...

Dr. Bramlage to Receive Dinny Phipps Award

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (May 3, 2023) — The Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation announced today that noted equine surgeon Dr. Larry Bramlage will be presented with the Dinny Phipps Award. The award will be presented at a dinner hosted by the chairman of The Jockey Club, Stuart S. Janney III, in Saratoga Springs, New York, the week of the Round Table Conference on Matters Pertaining to Racing. Ambassador Earle Mack, an active participant in Thoroughbred racing and breeding for more than five decades, created the award in 2017 in memory of Phipps to honor an individual or individuals who have demonstrated dedication to equine health. Previous winners of the Dinny Phipps Award are the Phipps family, Frank Stronach, John C. Oxley, Michael Del Giudice, and Dell Hancock. “Dr. Bramlage’s contributions to The Jockey Club and Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation are unmatched,” said Janney. “Not only is he one of the best surgeons in our industry, but he is one of the best advocates for our sport and our... ...

Jockey Club Scholarships Announced

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (May 2, 2023) — The Jockey Club announced today the recipients of its five academic scholarships, which will be awarded for the 2023-2024 academic year. Megan Elcombe has been selected to receive The Jockey Club Scholarship, which provides $15,000 ($7,500 per semester) to a student who is pursuing a bachelor’s degree or higher at any university and has demonstrated interest in pursuing a career in the Thoroughbred industry. Elcombe is studying veterinary medicine at UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine with a graduation date of May 2024. Following graduation, she plans to join a racetrack veterinary practice. The winner of The Jockey Club Advancement of Women in Racing Scholarship ($20,000; $10,000 per semester), which is open to women pursuing a career in the Thoroughbred industry, is Carly Schuerger. Schuerger will graduate in May 2024 from California State University, San Marcos, with a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology and a minor in Business Administration. She plans to become a racehorse trainer. Silke Hoffman is the recipient... ...

EquiRing to Host May Mixed Sale

From EquiRing.com Press Release LEXINGTON, Ky. (May 1, 2023) – EquiRing.com has posted its May 2 sale consignment online for preview. This sale features eight entries highlighted by Cashing Tickets by Indian Charlie in foal to Into Mischief on a 3/2/23 last cover date. Cashing Tickets is the dam of G2 winning and Graded Stakes-placed Leggs Galore, who is herself also bred to Into Mischief for the 2023 breeding season. Cashing Tickets is only one of two mares offered in foal to Into Mischief in all of 2022 and 2023 at public auction. Also catalogued is Magically Honored in foal on an early cover to first year California stallion Eight Rings, and her 2023 Blame filly by side. The boutique auction is consigned by Checkmate Thoroughbreds and available online for preview and registration. Bidding will start at 3 pm EDT on May 2, with the first hip closing at 6 pm EDT. To preview the catalog, click May Mixed Sale (equiring.com) ...

Kangaroo Court on Docket for Pat Day Mile

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (May 1, 2023) – Stakes winner Kangaroo Court is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $500,000 Grade II Pat Day Mile Stakes presented by TwinSpires for 3-year-olds at Churchill Downs. Kangaroo Court is by Dads Caps, out of the Hard Spun mare Bonus Spin was bred by Richard Barton Enterprises, is owned by George Sharp and trained by Tim Yakteen. He has three wins in four starts, earnings of $197,200 and is coming off a win in the Apr. 8 Echo Eddie. ...

Lil Anthony Debuts in Churchill Downs Stake

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (May 1, 2023) – Lil Anthony is the lone California-bred entered in Thursday’s $250,000 Kentucky Juvenile Stakes for 2-year-olds at Churchill Downs. Lil Anthony is by Anthony’s Cross, out of the Mining for Money mare Lil Nugget, was bred by David Chase, is owned by William Branch and trained by Luis Mendez. Lil Anthony is also entered in a maiden special weight race at Churchill Downs on Tuesday. Either would be his racing debut. ...

Sassy Nature Targets Churchill Downs Stake

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (May 1, 2023) – Stakes winner Sassy Nature is the lone California-bred entered in Wednesday’s $225,000 Mamzelle Overnight Stakes for 3-year-old fillies at Churchill Downs. Sassy Nature is by Straight Fire, out of the After Market mare Renee’s Queen, was bred by Straight Fire, LLC, is owned by C T R Stables and trained by Luis Mendez. She has three wins in six starts, earnings of $156,990 and is coming off a fifth in the Apr. 14 FanDuel Limestone Stakes. ...

Hasta La Vista for Stakes Winner Luv Luv

PHOENIX, Ariz. (May 1, 2023) – Stakes winner Luv Luv and fellow California-bred Falsely Accused are entered in Saturday’s $60,000 Hasta La Vista Stakes at Turf Paradise. Luv Luv is by Lakerville, out of the Fasliyev mare Lucera, was bred by Michael Neumann & Francoise Dupuis and is owned by trainer Adam Kitchingman. He has four wins in 27 starts, earnings of $269,750 and is coming off a win in the Apr. 15 Wildcat Stakes. Falsely Accused is by Strong Mandate, out of the Maria’s Mon mare Princess Hillary, was bred by Dale Mahlum, is owned by Chris Randall & Gary Hughes and is trained by Shane Peacock. He has four wins in 23 starts, earnings of $110,567 and is coming off a sixth in an Apr. 17 optional claimer. ...

CTBA Sale Grad Enters Turf Paradise Stake

PHOENIX, Ariz. (May 1, 2023) – California Thoroughbred Breeders Association January Sale graduate Perfect Mischief and fellow Cal-breds Sister Cousin and Big Moonie are entered in Saturday’s $60,000 Turf Paradise Open Spring Futurity for 2-year-olds. Sister Cousin is a filly by Sharp Azteca, out of the Tapit mare Cal Gal, was bred by Richard Barto Enterprises, is owned by Chris Nolan and trained by Robertino Diodoro. She is a maiden making her second start with earnings of $3,998. Big Moonie is a gelding by Cat Burglar, out of the Square Eddie mare Moonie, was bred by Richard Barton Enterprises, is owned by Roberto Baeza and trained by Candelario Villamar. He is a maiden making his second start with earnings of $1,000. Perfect Mischief is a filly by Curlin to Mischief, out of the Paynter mare No Prob Lama, was bred by Kaitlyn Raboin & Matthew Raboin and is trained by Vann Belvoir. The $3,500 purchase at the CTBA January Sale is a maiden making her second start with earnings of... ...

Hacking It Up Gets Up to Win Silky Sullivan

From Golden Gate Publicity ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 30, 2023) – Southern California invader Hacking It Up sat in midfield off a swift pace, swung to the center of the course in midfield turning into the stretch, and ran down runner up finisher Clovisconnection for a half-length win in Sunday’s $75,000 Silky Sullivan Stakes for Golden State Series-eligible 3-year-olds. With the win, Hacking It Up improved his lifetime race record to 3 wins and 1 third place finish from 8 lifetime starts. The son of Nyquist out of the Square Eddie mare Hacktivism earned $45,000 for the Silky Sullivan victory and increased his career earnings to $160,580. Hacking It Up was bred in California by Reddam Racing LLC and is owned by Qatar Racing LLC. Hacking It Up, who stopped the clock for one mile on firm turf in 1:37.87, went off as the 7-2 second choice in the wagering and paid $9.60 to win, $5.60 to place, and $4.40 to show. 4-1 shot Clovisconnection, who stalked a quick pace, took... ...

Hacking It Up

Hacking It Up wins $75,000 Silky Sullivan Stakes. ...

Another Alexander/Grazen Stakes Winner

From Golden Gate Publicity ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 30, 2023) – California-bred Carole Lombard continued the dominating weekend of breeder/owner Nick Alexander and stallion Grazen on Sunday by rallying through the lane to edge Proof She Zips and win the $75,000 Campanile Stake for Golden State Series-eligible 3-year-old fillies at Golden Gate. Out of the Afleet Alex mare Shesabronxbomber and trained by Phil D’Amato, Carole Lombard has three wins in six starts, earnings of $151,820 and was coming off a Mar. 31 optional claimer win. Carole Lombard ran the mile on turf in 1:37.97 and won by a neck at odds of 7-5 in a field of six. Proof She Zips was second and favored Sell the Dream was third. On Saturday, Alexander was the breeder and owner of Cal-bred Grazen daughters Rose Maddux, winner of the Golden Poppy Stakes and Alice Marble, winner of the Camilla Urso, both at Golden Gate. Carole Lombard, given a well-timed ride by Golden Gate Fields Winter/Spring meet leading rider Assael Espinoza, sat off a quick... ...

Carole Lombard

Carole Lombard wins $75,000 Campanile Stakes. ...

Rose Maddux

Rose Maddux wins $75,000 Golden Poppy. ...

Alice Marble

Alice Marble wins $75,000 Camilla Urso. ...

Rose Maddux Shines in Golden Poppy

ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 29, 2023) – Reliable California-bred Rose Maddux made up a five-length deficit in the final eighth of a mile to win Saturday’s $75,000 Golden Poppy Stakes for fillies and mares at Golden Gate. Rose Maddux is by Grazen, out of the Unusual Heat mare Heat the Rocks, was bred by owner Nick Alexander and is trained by Steven Miyadi. She has five wins in 14 starts, earnings of $307,782 and is coming off a second in the Mar. 17 Irish O’Brien. Alexander also is the breeder and owner of Alice Marble, who won the Camilla Urso Stakes two races earlier and also was sired by Grazen. Rose Maddux ran the 1 1/16 on turf in 1:44.17 and won by a head at odds of 5-1 in a field of 10. ...

Top Harbor on Top in Lost in the Fog

ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 29, 2023) – Odds-on favorite Top Harbor overcame a late start with a rush in the middle of the stretch to win Saturday’s $75,000 Lost in the Fog Stakes at Golden Gate. Top Harbor is by Harbor the Gold, out of the He’s Top mare Reba Is Tops, was bred by owners Eric Schweiger, Gordy Jarnig & Kenny Marshall and is trained by Tim McCanna. He has seven wins in 16 starts, earnings of $327,114 and was coming off a win in an Apr. 1 allowance. He ran the six furlongs in 1:09 4/5 and won by 2 1/4 lengths at odds of 4-5 in the field of seven. ...

Alice Marble’s Class Shows in Camilla Urso

ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 29, 2023) – Classy California-bred Alice Marble rallied with a rush to nail Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Chancery Way at the wire to win Saturday’s $75,000 Camilla Urso Stakes for fillies and mares at Golden Gate. Alice Marble is by Grazen, out of the More Than Ready mare Unsung Heroine, was bred by owner Nick Alexander and is trained by Phil D’Amato. She has eight wins in 16 starts, earnings of $515,880 and was coming off a win in the Mar. 17 Irish O’Brien. “It was the first time I’ve been on her, and it was an absolute pleasure,” said jockey Umberto Rispoli. “I think, for her, she prefers six, six and a half [furlongs]. I feel that she was gearing up at the top of the stretch and when I put her into the clear, she did the rest.” She ran the five furlongs in :56.59 and won by a head as the 6-5 favorite in the field of eight. ...

Princess Kokachin Wires Primonetta Stakes

LAUREL, Md. (Apr. 29, 2023) – Princess Kokachin, a Maryland-bred daughter of California stallion Graydar, won Saturday’s $100,000 Primonetta Stakes for fillies and mares at Laurel Park. Princess Kokachin, out of the Speightstown mare Serenity Hill, has 11 wins in 22 starts and earnings of $453,420. The 5-year-old mare went wire-to-wire over the six furlongs in 1:11.95 on a good track and won by one-half length as the 2-1 favorite. She was fourth in this race last year. ...

Disturbingthepeace Passes at Age 25

By Bloodhorse.com GEORGETOWN, Ky. (Apr. 28, 2023) — Old Friends, the Thoroughbred retirement facility in Georgetown, Ky., announced April 28 the passing of Disturbingthepeace due to complications from colic. The two-time winner of the Pat O’Brien Stakes (G2) and earner of over $650,000 was 25. The beautiful bay gelding by Bold Badgett out of Regal Riot, by Sovereign Dancer, was bred in California by Old English Rancho and Patsy McKuen. Disturbingthepeace scored his first win as a 3-year-old in his fourth start in a maiden special weight race at Del Mar Aug. 27, 2001, under the care of trainer Darrell Vienna, and owners David and Rita Milch. He would improve substantially with maturity and strung together six straight wins at 4. Three of those victories were captured at Del Mar in the Triple Bend Breeders’ Cup Invitational Handicap (G2), Bing Crosby Breeders’ Cup Handicap (G2), and his first win in the Pat O’Brien. The win streak began with wins in two allowance races at Santa Anita Park, and one allowance optional claiming race at... ...

Closing Remarks Cruises onto Wilshire

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 27, 2023) – California-bred Closing Remarks, fresh off her win in the Grade II Royal Heroine Stakes, is entered in Sunday’s $100,000 Grade III Wilshire Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita. Closing Remarks is by Vronsky, out of the Unusual Heat mare Orange Cove, was bred by owner Harris Farms and is trained by Carla Gaines. She has four wins in 18 starts, earnings of $554,820 and is coming off her first graded win. ...

Clovisconnection Enters Silky Sullivan

ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 27, 2023) – Clovisconnection is the lone stakes winner in a field of 10 entered in Sunday’s $75,000 Silky Sullivan Stakes for Golden State Series-eligible 3-year-olds at Golden Gate. Happy Does is by Southern Image, out of the Comic Strip mare Handfull, was bred by Dr. & Mrs. William Gray, is owned by Gray Farms and trained by Felix Rondan. He has three wins in 10 starts, earnings of $91,348 and is coming off a fifth in a Mar. 31 optional claimer. Clovisconnection is by Vronsky, out of the Perfect Mandate mare La Darling, was bred by owners William and Judy Hedrick and is trained by Blaine Wright. He has three wins in five starts, earnings of $91,380 and is coming off a fifth in the Apr. 8 Echo Eddie. Bob’s Blue Moon is by Richard’s Kid, out of the Good Journey mare Nicolette Charmant, was bred by Rancho San Miguel, is owned by Blue Moon Racing, Steve Dietrich and Thomas Halasz and is trained by Angelo... ...

Sell the Dream Seeks First Stakes Victory

ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 27, 2023) – Multiple graded-stakes placed Sell the Dream seeks her first black-type victory in Sunday’s $75,000 Campanile Stakes for Golden State Series-eligible 3-year-old fillies. Get My Point is by Stanford, out of the Indian Charlie mare Didugetmypoint, was bred by owner Tommy Town Thoroughbreds and is trained by Jonathan Wong. She has one win in eight starts, earnings of $24,660 and is coming off a maiden claiming win Apr. 22. Proof She Zips is by Idiot Proof, out of the City Zip mare Zipping My Way, was bred by Daniel O’Neill, is owned by Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners and Gary Barber and is trained by Michael McCarthy. She has one win in four starts, earnings of $64,740 and is coming off a second in a Mar. 19 optional claimer. Like No Other is by Stanford, out of the Lemon Drop Kid mare She’s Not a Lemon, was bred by owner Tommy Town Thoroughbreds and is trained by Jonathan Wong. She has one win in four starts, earnings... ...

Cal-breds Bring Six Figures at OBS Sale

OCALA, Fla. (Apr. 27, 2023) – A pair of California-breds brought six-figure prices at Thursday’s session of the OBS 2-Year-Old in Training Spring Sale. Hip 843, a Nyquist colt, sold for $400,000 to Slugo Racing. The colt, out of the stakes-placed Square Eddie mare Radish, was bred by Reddam Racing and consigned by Wavertree Stables, agent. He posted a 10.0 second time in the under-tack furlong workout. Hip 834, a colt by Maclean’s Music, sold for $240,000 to Jet Horse LLC. The colt, out of the Bernardini mare Queen Bernardina, was bred by Liberty Road Stables and consigned by Scanlon Training and Sales, agent. A $145,000 purchase at the Fasig-Tipton California Yearling Sale, he also was timed in 10.1 for one furlong. ...

Big Switch Eyes Graded Glory in Santa Maria

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 26, 2023) – Multiple stakes winner Big Switch and fellow California-bred Smoothlikebuttah, both daughters of Mr. Big, are entered in Saturday’s $200,000 Grade II Santa Maria Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita. Big Switch is out of the Malibu Moon mare Two Faced Moon, was bred by owner George Krikorian and is trained by John Sadler. She has four wins in eight starts, earnings of $339,924 and is coming off a second in a Mar. 31 optional claimer. Smoothlikebuttah is out of the Five Star Day mare Eight Daughters, was bred by NP Thoroughbreds, is owned by Robert Bach & William Tessar and is trained by Steve Knapp. She has three wins in 38 starts, earnings of $384,012 and is coming off a win in a Mar. 13 optional claimer. ...

Passarando Gunning for California Derby

ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 26, 2023) – Multiple stakes winner Passarando and fellow California-bred Nauvoo are entered in Saturday’s $100,000 California Derby for 3-year-olds at Golden Gate. Passarando is by Tamarando, out of the Lucky Pulpit mare I’m Passing Ya Now, was bred by owners Mr. & Mrs. Larry Williams and is trained by Steven Specht. He has four wins in nine starts, earnings of $246,830 and is coming off a fourth in the Feb. 11 El Camino Real. Nauvoo is by Not This Time, out of the Uncle Mo mare Hallelujah Girl, was bred by Chappell Alpine Farm, is owned by MJVET Stables and Taboada Racing Stables and is trained by Jonathan Wong. He has five wins in 10 starts, earnings of $62,986 and is coming off a Mar. 31 claiming win. ...

Alice Marble Seeks Consecutive Stakes Wins

ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 26, 2023) – Stakes winner Alice Marble, Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Chancery Way and fellow California-bred Carolina Mia are entered in Saturday’s $75,000 Camilla Urso Stakes for fillies and mares at Golden Gate. Alice Marble is by Grazen, out of the More Than Ready mare Unsung Heroine, was bred by owner Nick Alexander and is trained by Phil D’Amato. She has seven wins in 15 starts, earnings of $470,880 and is coming off a win in the Mar. 17 Irish O’Brien. Chancery Way is by Mr. Big, out of the War Chant mare This Means War, was bred by Harris Farms & John Nicoletti, is owned by Andy Smolich & Rob Smolich and is trained by Jamey Thomas. The $6,500 purchase at the Northern California Yearling Sale has four wins in six starts, earnings of $126,770 and is coming off a fifth in the Feb. 19 Spring Fever. Carolina Mia is by Gallant Son, out of the Sought After mare Carolina Grande, was bred by Daehling... ...

Top Harbor Looking for Lost in the Fog

ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 26, 2023) – Multiple stakes winner Top Harbor is one of six California-breds entered in Saturday’s $75,000 Lost in the Fog Stakes at Golden Gate. Cool Mountain Lad is by Unionize, out of the Stormin Fever mare Honeysuckle Rose, was bred by Francis O’Leary, is owned by William Lordan, O’Leary and Larry Powers and is trained by Victor Trujillo. He has seven wins in 22 starts, earnings of $221,180 and is coming off a fourth in an Apr. 1 allowance. He was fifth in this race last year. Top Harbor is by Harbor the Gold, out of the He’s Top mare Reba Is Tops, was bred by owners Eric Schweiger, Gordy Jarnig & Kenny Marshall and is trained by Tim McCanna. He has six wins in 15 starts, earnings of $282,114 and is coming off a win in an Apr. 1 allowance. Lovesick Blues is by Grazen, out of the Ministers Wild Cat mare Queenofhercastle, was bred by owner Nick Alexander and is trained by Steven Miyadi.... ...

Rose Maddux, Tam’s Little Angel Tangle

ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 26, 2023) – California-bred stakes winners Rose Maddux and Tam’s Little Angel are entered in Saturday’s $75,000 Golden Poppy Stakes for fillies and mares at Golden Gate. Rose Maddux is by Grazen, out of the Unusual Heat mare Heat the Rocks, was bred by owner Nick Alexander and is trained by Steven Miyadi. She has four wins in 13 starts, earnings of $262,782 and is coming off a second in the Mar. 17 Irish O’Brien. Tam’s Little Angel is by Tamarando, out of the Lucky Pulpit mare Angel Diane, was bred by owners Mr. & Mrs. Larry Williams and is trained by Steven Specht. She has four wins in 17 starts, earnings of $195,860 and is coming off a fifth in a Mar. 12 allowance. ...

Smiling Lady Enters California Oaks

ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 26, 2023) – Smiling Lady is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $75,000 California Oaks for 3-year-old fillies at Golden Gate. Smiling Lady is by Smiling Tiger, out of the Pleasantly Perfect mare Banner Elk Lady, was bred by Premier Thoroughbreds, is owned by Philip Lebherz and trained by Andy Mathis. She has three wins in nine starts, earnings of $85,124 and is coming off a Mar. 26 optional claiming win. ...

California Chrome Elected to Hall of Fame

From National Museum of Racing SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. (Apr. 25, 2023) — Eight new members have been elected to the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame. The class of 2023 is comprised of jockey Corey Nakatani and the racehorses Arrogate (KY), California Chrome (CA), and Songbird (KY) in the contemporary category; jockey Fernando Toro via the Historic Review Committee; and Pillars of the Turf selections John W. Hanes II, Leonard W. Jerome, and Stella F. Thayer. Arrogate, California Chrome, and Songbird were all elected in their first year of eligibility. The 2023 Hall of Fame class will be enshrined on Friday, Aug. 4, at the Fasig-Tipton sales pavilion in Saratoga Springs at 10:30 a.m. The ceremony will be broadcast live on the Museum website at www.racingmuseum.org. The event is open to the public and free to attend. Corey Nakatani, 52, a native of Covina, Calif., won 3,909 races with purse earnings of $234,554,534 in a career that spanned from 1988 through 2018. His 341 graded stakes victories included 10 Breeders’... ...

Santa Anita Revives Seabiscuit Tour

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 23, 2023) — The Seabiscuit Tram Tour returns to Santa Anita beginning next Saturday. The guided tour, which is free of charge, departs Clocker’s Corner at 9:45 a.m. It includes a visit to Santa Anita’s Stable Area, Receiving Barn, Paddock Gardens and a drive by Seabiscuit’s original barn and stall. Participants will also walk through the Silks Rooms before visiting the saddling paddock. The Seabiscuit Tram Tour will run every Saturday through June 17 with some exceptions. The tour will not be offered May 6, May 20 and June 10. Free parking is also available through Gate 8 off Baldwin Avenue. To reserve a spot, visitwww.santanita.com/tramtour or call (626) 574-6677. ...

Brickyard Ride Wins Kona Gold Again

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (April 23, 2023)— California-bred Brickyard Ride was in fine fettle Sunday morning after successfully defending his title in the $100,000 Grade III Kona Gold here on Saturday. “All good,” trainer Craig Lewis said trackside Sunday morning. In the 6 ½-furlong Kona Gold, odds-on favorite Brickyard Ride sped to the front under Juan Hernandez and clicked off sharp fractions of 21.77 and 43.92 seconds for the opening half mile. He was being pressed throughout by 9-5 second choice Anarchist, who would prove a stubborn foe in his first graded stakes on dirt for trainer Doug O’Neill. Brickyard Ride continued to motor in the stretch and held a one length advantage when reaching the eighth pole in 1:08.95. He held well in the final furlong, ultimately crossing the wire a half-length winner in a time of 1:15.84. The effort returned a 95 Beyer Speed Figure, according to Daily Racing Form. “He’s a warrior. This horse has won 13 races.... ...

Brickyard Ride

Brickyard Ride wins $100,000 Grade III Kona Gold. ...

Cal-sired Filly Offered in Fundraiser

From SportHorseAuctions.com WILLCOX, Ariz. — A California-sired yearling daughter of leading stallion Stay Thirsty is being auctioned, with proceeds benefiting paralyzed jockey Anne Von Rosen, according to breeder Dorothée Kieckhefer. The filly, named Peanut Bar, is out of the Rocky Bar mare Rocky Top Girl. The filly is eligible to compete in all races with enhanced purses which are restricted to California-sired and California-bred Thoroughbreds. She is eligible to be nominated to the lucrative Golden State Stakes Series, according to Kieckhefer. Because she was foaled in Arizona, she would also qualify for owners’ and breeders’ awards in the Grand Canyon State. For further information, click https://internethorseauctions.com/auction-lot-detail.php?aucid=494&Id=27027&Start=0&closeinc=50&AnName=&Cate=&Sexx=&Discip=&Sttate= ...

CHRB Meeting Summary

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Apr. 21, 2023) — The California Horse Racing Board conducted a meeting on Thursday, April 20, 2023, at Cal Expo in Sacramento. Chairman Gregory Ferraro chaired the meeting, joined by Vice Chair Oscar Gonzales and Commissioners Damascus Castellanos, Brenda Washington Davis, Thomas Hudnut, and Wendy Mitchell. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link. In brief: The Board voted to amend the Inclement Weather Policy by imposing greater restrictions on horses exercising immediately after the surface has been unsealed. Typically, when wet weather is anticipated, dirt surfaces are compacted hard to promote runoff and prevent water from seeping into the soil. When the surface is later unsealed, indications are that at least 24 hours is needed for it to fully settle. Under the new policy, horses will only be allowed to jog during those 24 hours. The track superintendent and CHRB’s equine medical director, Dr. Jeff Blea, will decide together whether it is safe for horses to perform... ...

California-bred Trio Answers Siren Lure

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (April 20, 2023)—California-breds Indian Peak, Sunrise Journey and Burnin Turf are entered in Sunday’s $100,000 Siren Lure Stakes at Santa Anita. Third, beaten a head over the course by perhaps the best California-bred in training, The Chosen Vron, in the statebred Sensational Star Stakes March 19, Peter Miller’s hard-hitting 6-year-old gelding Indian Peak need only run back to his most recent start to be a factor in open company Sunday. Ridden by Juan Hernandez at 8-1 in the Sensational Star, Indian Peak will hope to get clear sailing under Ramon Vazquez in the Siren Lure as he seeks his second stakes win down the hill in what will be his fifth try. By Comic Strip, Indian Peak, who has proven versatile on all surfaces both routing and sprinting, was bred by Dr. & Mrs. William Gray and is owned by Wachtel Stable and Gary Barber. The leading money earner in the field with $443,122, Indian Peak, a two-time stakes winner, is 29-6-5-3 overall. A... ...

Freshened Slow Down Andy Back to Work

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 20, 2023) — California-bred multiple graded winner Slow Down Andy, sidelined since a third in the Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile at Keeneland Nov. 5, had his first work of the year on Sunday for trainer Doug O’Neill. The Grade II winner drilled three furlongs in 36.6 seconds on a track listed as “fast.” Slow Down Andy was originally slated to return in the GI Malibu here on Dec 26, but that plan was scrapped when O’Neill was not satisfied with how he had been training. Slow Down Andy was sent to owner Paul and Zilla Reddam’s Ocean Breeze Ranch in early February where he was turned out. Slow Down Andy has four wins in 10 starts with earnings of $909,100. Last year, he won the GIII Sunland Park Derby on dirt and GII Del Mar Derby on turf. In the Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile, Slow Down Andy was forwardly placed throughout before crossing the wire third, less than two lengths behind... ...

Brickyard Ride Aims for Another Kona Gold

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, CA (April 18, 2023)—Lightning quick and with a recent race to his credit, California-bred Brickyard Ride would appear to tower over five rival older horses as he defends his title in Santa Anita’s Grade III, $100,000 Kona Gold Stakes at 6 ½ furlongs on Saturday. Owned and bred by Alfred Pais and trained by Craig Lewis, Brickyard Ride, with two graded stakes wins to his credit, will be in search of his eighth overall stakes victory in what will be his 25th start. A 6-year-old full horse by top California-based stallion Clubhouse Ride out of the Southern Image mare Brickyard Helen, Brickyard Ride unfurled early splits of 21.40 and 43 flat prior to checking third, beaten 2 ¾ lengths going about 6 ½ furlongs down Santa Anita’s hillside turf course in the Grade III San Simeon Stakes on March 5—his first start since well beaten in the Grade II Triple Bend Stakes at seven furlongs here on May 29 of last year. A winner on both... ...

Bertrando Stakes Set for Los Al Fair Meet

From Los Alamitos Publicity CYPRESS, Calif. —Three stakes – including the $100,000-guaranteed Bertrando for 3-year-olds & up bred or sired in California — highlight the Los Angeles County Fair meet at Los Alamitos. The nine-day season is scheduled to begin Friday, June 23 and continue through Sunday, July 9. Racing will be conducted Friday-Sunday opening week (June 23-25), Saturday-Tuesday (July 1-4) the middle week and Saturday-Sunday (July 8-9) the final weekend. Post time will be 1 p.m. The richest event is the Grade II, $200,000-guaranteed Great Lady M. Stakes for fillies & mares at 6 ½ furlongs. Captured by Nick Alexander’s Cal-bred Becca Taylor in 2022, the Great Lady M. will be offered Tuesday, July 4. Besides Becca Taylor, the seven other winners of the Great Lady M. at Los Alamitos are Doinghardtimeagain (2014), Fantastic Style (2015), Eclipse Award winner Finest City (2016), Skye Diamonds (2017), Marley’s Freedom (2018-2019), Sneaking Out (2020) and Gamine (2021). The $125,000-guaranteed Los Alamitos Derby, which was won a year ago by High Connection, providing... ...

Luv Luv Wins Wins Wildcat Wildcat

PHOENIX, Ariz. ( Apr. 16, 2023) — California-bred Luv Luv won Saturday’s $60,000 Wildcat Stakes at Turf Paradise. Luv Luv is by Lakerville, out of the Fasliyev mare Lucera, was bred by Michael Neumann & Francoise Dupuis and is owned by trainer Adam Kitchingman. He has four wins in 27 starts and earnings of $269,750. Luv Luv ran the 1 3/8 miles on turf in 2:14.64 and won by a head at odds of 9-2. ...

Opening Buzz Enters Giant’s Causeway

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Apr. 12, 2023) – Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Opening Buzz is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $250,000 Giant’s Causeway Stakes for fillies and mares at Keeneland. Opening Buzz is by Stanford, out of the Unbridled’s Song mare Open Mic, was bred by owner Tommy Town Thoroughbreds and is trained by Jonathan Wong. The multiple stakes winner has five wins in eight starts, earnings of $201,993 and is coming off a win in the Mar. 17 WEBN Frog Stakes at Turfway Park. ...

Sassy Nature Digging for Limestone

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Apr. 12, 2023) – Stakes winner Sassy Nature is the lone California-bred entered in Friday’s $250,000 FanDuel Limestone Stakes for 3-year-old fillies at Keeneland. Sassy Nature is by Straight Fire, out of the After Market mare Renee’s Queen, was bred by Straight Fire, LLC, is owned by C T R Stables and trained by Luis Mendez. She has three wins in five starts, earnings of $151,440 and is coming off a win in the Mar. 25 Melody of Colors Stakes at Gulfstream Park. ...

Kangaroo Court

Kangaroo Court wins $150,000 Echo Eddie. ...

Kangaroo Court Over Bus Buzz in Thriller

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, CA (April 8, 2023)—In a thrilling stretch duel that included some contact, Tim Yakteen’s Kangaroo Court prevailed by a head over Steve Knapp’s Bus Buzz in Saturday’s $150,000 Echo Eddie Stakes at Santa Anita. A 3-year-old gelding owned by George Sharp, trained by Tim Yakteen and ridden by Flavien Prat, Kangaroo Court got 6 ½ furlongs in 1:15.66. The Echo Eddie is part of the lucrative CTBA-sponsored Golden State Series for California-bred or sired 3-year-olds and was one of six stakes on the Runhappy Santa Anita Derby Day card. With Edwin Maldonado up, Bus Buzz out-footed the winner early, but was engaged to his outside leaving the three furlong pole by Kangaroo Court and the two were head and head from the top of the stretch to the wire, with each horse contributing equally to bumping approaching the eighth pole and again a sixteenth of a mile out. After a stewards’ inquiry, the original order of finish was allowed to stand. ... ...

Ceiling Crusher

Ceiling Crusher wins $150,000 Evening Jewel. ...

NorCal Sale Grad Ceiling Crusher Crushes

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, CA (April 8, 2023)—To quote the late, legendary Charlie Whittingham, “It was over when we entered.” And The Bald Eagle would’ve been right, as Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Ceiling Crusher pressed Tom’s Regret to the far turn and then opened up to air by 15 ½ lengths in Saturday’s $150,000 Evening Jewel Stakes for 3-year-old fillies. Ridden by Juan Hernandez, Ceiling Crusher got 6 ½ furlongs in 1:15.18 to remain unbeaten in three starts. Presented by the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance and part of the lucrative CTBA-sponsored Golden State Series for eligible California-bred or sired runners, the Evening Jewel attracted a field of five. With Abel Cedillo and Tom’s Regret speeding to a narrow early lead, Ceiling Crusher put a head in front mid-way around the turn and from there, her only competition was the clock. “All the credit to my filly, she’s really great!” said Hernandez, Santa Anita’s runaway leading rider who registered his meet-leading 13th stakes win. “Doug brought her ready... ...

Cal Coalition to Fund AHC Impact Study

From LOSANGELES, Calif. (Apr. 6, 2023) — California Horse Power Coalition (CHPC), a growing partnership of Thoroughbred associations, organizations representing backstretch workers and jockeys, animal wellness advocates and more, announced today the coalition’s commitment to fund the California breakout report as part of the American Horse Council’s California Economic Impact Study. The American Horse Council consistently produces the most comprehensive national economic impact studies that showcase the vast benefits that the equine industry brings to communities across the country,” said Josh Rubinstein, President of Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, an American Horse Council member. “As our industry continues to evolve, we are confident that the results will underscore our industry’s commitment to advancing California’s economy, expanding the travel and tourism industry, and creating a space for friends and family to create unforgettable shared experiences together.” The American Horse Council’s economic impact studies examine the industry’s contributions to the national GDP as well as individual states, which includes employment, volunteers, equid population, acreage, and more. Each category is also broken... ...

Absolutely Zero, Ceiling Crusher Meet

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADA, CA (April 5, 2023)—Stakes winner Absolutely Zero, off since the Grade II Sorrento at Del Mar Aug. 13, and unbeaten stablemate Ceiling Crusher give trainer Doug O’Neill a strong hand for Saturday’s $150,000 Evening Jewel Stakes for statebred 3-year-old fillies. Absolutely Zero won her debut last May going 4 ½ furlongs at Santa Anita and returned a month later to knock off males in the Fasig-Tipton Futurity at five furlongs. Stepping up for the GII Sorrento going six furlongs at Del Mar Aug. 13, the Nyquist homebred for Reddam Racing stalked the pace before fading in the stretch to finish last of six. Absolutely Zero has worked eight times at Santa Anita for her comeback. She will break from the rail under regular rider Mario Gutierrez. Ceiling Crusher won her debut last June at Santa Anita when making her only start of the year. The Mr. Big filly resurfaced Jan. 29 at Santa Anita and took down a first-level allowance for statebreds... ...

Kangaroo Court, Bus Buzz in Rematch

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, CA (April 5, 2023)—One race after the Grade I Runhappy Santa Anita Derby on Saturday, 3-year-old statebreds take the spotlight with an intriguing rematch between Kangaroo Court and Bus Buzz in the $150,000 Echo Eddie Stakes. Contested at 6 ½ furlongs on the main track, the Echo Eddie has a field of eight that also includes the ascendant Clouseau for trainer Ian Kruljac and promising debut winner Left Hand Man for trainer Mark Glatt. Kangaroo Court was a 14 ¼ -length maiden winner sprinting at Del Mar last August before heading to the sidelines for the remainder of the year. He returned here on March 4 in a first-level allowance for statebreds where he hooked Bus Buzz, who himself had served notice when popping a 93 Beyer Speed Figure in his Feb. 4 bow here going six furlongs on the main track. In their first matchup, contested at six furlongs, Kangaroo Court and Bus Buzz dueled through fractions of 21.60 and 44.0 seconds for... ...

One in Vermillion Shooting for Derby

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 5, 2023) – Multiple stakes winner One in Vermillion is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $750,000 Grade I Santa Anita Derby for 3-year-olds. One in Vermillion is by Army Mule, out of the Any Given Saturday mare Given Star, was bred by Richard Barton Enterprises, is owned by Jonathan Kalman and trained by J. Eric Kruljac. He has three wins in five starts, earnings of $167,440 and is coming off a fifth in the Mar. 26 Sunland Park Derby. ...

Don’t Get Pickled Gets Oaks Acid Test

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 5, 2023) – Stakes winner Don’t Get Pickled is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $400,000 Grade II Santa Anita Oaks for 3-year-old fillies. Don’t Get Pickled is by Misremembered, out of the Successful Appeal mare C C’s Pride, was bred by Harry & Cheryl Keshian, is owned by Stable H. M. A. and trained by Lorenzo Campuzano. She has two wins in eight starts, earnings of $101,088 and is coming off a third in the Mar. 26 Sunland Park Oaks. ...

Leggs Galore, Big Summer Enter Monrovia

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 5, 2023) – California-bred graded stakes winner Leggs Galore and fellow Cal-bred stakes winner Big Summer are entered in Saturday’s $200,000 Grade III Monrovia Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita. Leggs Galore is by Bayern, out of the Indian Charlie mare Cashing Tickets, was bred by owner William Sims and is trained by Phil D’Amato. She has nine wins in 18 starts, earnings of $694,548 and is making her first start since a second in the Oct. 15 California Distaff Handicap. Big Summer is by Mr. Big, out of the Cee’s Tizzy mare Ultimate Summer, was bred by Bob Abrams & Mitchel Dutko, is owned by Abrams, Dutko and Michael Paran and is trained by Carla Gaines. She has four wins in 12 starts, earnings of $315,160 and is coming off a second in the Feb. 18 Wishing Well. ...

Cal-bred Trio Enters Wildcat Stakes

PHOENIX, Ariz. (Apr. 9, 2023) – California-breds Luvluv, Shinny and Club Mesquite are entered in Saturday’s $60,000 Wildcat Stakes at Turf Paradise. Luvluv is by Lakerville, out of the Fasliyev mare Lucera, was bred by Michael Neumann & Francoise Dupuis and is owned by trainer Adam Kitchingman. He has three wins in 26 starts, earnings of $234,782 and is coming off a sixth in a Feb. 5 optional claimer. Shinny is by Square Eddie, out of the Indian Charlie mare Cryptic, was bred by Reddam Racing and is owned by trainer Mike Chambers and Bradley Green. He has 18 wins in 35 starts, earnings of $220,451 and is coming off a second in a Mar. 25 optional claimer. Club Mesquite is by Clubhouse Ride, out of the Huddle Up mare Mesquite, was bred by Harris Farms, is owned by Harry Richardson and trained by Matt Williams. He has three wins in 30 starts, earnings of $65,112 and is coming off a third in a Mar. 29 starter’s optional claimer. ...

I’m Lock N Load Gets First Winner

ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 9, 2023) – California stallion I’m Lock N Load was represented by his first winner on Sunday when Lucky Lockett won the first race at Golden Gate. Lucky Lockett is out of the Lucky Pulpit mare Blue’s Lucky Girl, was bred by owner Carol Anderson and trained by Isidro Tamayo. The 3-year-old filly ran the mile in 1:41.70 and won by one length at odds of 2-1 in a field of six. ...

Sir Prancealot’s Rio Natal Wins Stake

PISA, Italy (Apr. 5, 2023) — Rio Natal, a 5-year-old Irish-bred son of California stallion Sir Prancealot, won Sunday’s listed 42,900 (Euro) Premio 24 Regione Toscana at Hippodromo San Rossore. Rio Natal, out of the Azamour mare Dansalong, ran the 2200 meters on turf in 2:18.80 and won by a length. ...

One in Vermillion to Enter Santa Anita Derby

By DRF.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 2, 2023) — The Grade 1 Runhappy Santa Anita Derby next Saturday added two starters on Sunday with the inclusion of a well-regarded contender in National Treasure and the California-bred longshot One in Vermillion, their trainers said Sunday. National Treasure, third in the Grade 1 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile at Keeneland in November, is more likely to start in the $750,000 Santa Anita Derby than Saturday’s Grade 1 Blue Grass Stakes at Keeneland. Trainer Tim Yakteen allowed that there is “small chance” National Treasure could be shipped to Kentucky. National Treasure was third in the Grade 3 Sham Stakes at Santa Anita on Jan. 8 in his lone start so far this year. National Treasure was withdrawn from the Grade 2 San Felipe Stakes at Santa Anita on March 4 because of a tender foot, but has had a steady sequence of workouts since mid-March. One in Vermillion, based in Arizona, was fifth in the Grade 3 Sunland Derby at Sunland Park on March 26. He... ...

Closing Remarks

Closing Remarks wins $200,000 Grade II Royal Heroine. ...

Harris’ Closing Remarks Wins Royal Heroine

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, CA (April 1, 2023)—Recently troubled but worry-free today, Harris Farms’ homebred Closing Remarks got a perfect trip in Saturday’s Grade II, $200,000 Royal Heroine Stakes at Santa Anita and she responded with an authoritative 1 ½ length score under Joe Bravo. Trained by Carla Gaines, Closing Remarks, the lone California-bred in the field, got one mile on turf in 1:34.82. A much-troubled third at the same trip in the Grade II Buena Vista Stakes here on March 4, Closing Remarks was a settled fourth early as recent allowance winner Honey Jar sped to the lead which she held to the quarter pole. On the move at that point and just two lengths off the lead, Closing Remarks wheeled four-deep into the lane and won as much best. “She just leaves the gate so settled and relaxed,” said Bravo, who was aboard for the eighth consecutive time today. “Carla has done a great job bringing her around in each one of these races. She... ...

Clayton Delaney Entered in Inaugural

FARMINGTON, N.M. (Apr. 3, 2023) – Clayton Delaney is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $75,000 Inaugural Stakes at Sunray Park. Clayton Delaney is by Grazen, out of the Bertrando mare Sudden Sunday, was bred by Nick Alexander, is owned by Jeremy Ramsland and is trained by Dick Cappellucci. He has four wins in 22 starts, earnings of $181,488 and is coming off a fifth in the Mar. 26 Bill Thomas Memorial Stakes. ...

Breeders’ Cup Tickets Now on Sale

From Breeders’ Cup LEXINGTON, Ky. (Mar. 30, 2023) — Tickets for the 40th running of the Breeders’ Cup World Championships, to be held Nov. 3 and 4 at iconic Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, California, will go on sale Thursday, May 4. Starting today, fans can begin browsing seating options and pricing at BreedersCup.com/Tickets and sign up to receive exclusive ticket pre-sale information at BreedersCup.com/2023. The 2023 World Championships will feature 14 Grade 1 races and $31 million in purses and awards as fans from around the globe gather to celebrate the world’s best horses, jockeys, and trainers as they compete over two days in racing’s most spectacular international showcase. “We are delighted to welcome guests from around the world to beautiful Santa Anita Park as we celebrate the milestone 40th running of racing’s premier international championship,” said Breeders’ Cup President and CEO Drew Fleming. “Extensive ticket options are available for all racing fans, and we are working closely with our partners at Santa Anita, and with the broader Arcadia and Pasadena communities, to ensure this year’s fan... ...

Closing Remarks Could Be a Royal Heroine

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, CA (March 29, 2023)—With standout distaffer Quattroelle absent, Harris Farms’ homebred Closing Remarks rates a huge chance from off the pace in Saturday’s Grade II, $200,000 Royal Heroine Stakes at Santa Anita. For older fillies and mares at one mile on turf, the Royal Heroine attracted a field of six—four of which exit the Grade II Buena Vista which was won by Quattroelle at a mile on grass here March 4. A 5-year-old California-bred mare by Vronsky, Closing Remarks was full of run at the rail in the run up the backside March 4, but had to steady and lose all position three furlongs out when pacesetter Kitty Kitana stopped suddenly. Although she was shuffled back at a critical point of call, Closing Remarks, under regular pilot Joe Bravo, was able to gather herself, swing wide and mount an impressive rally, finishing third, beaten 1 ½ lengths. Trained by Carla Gaines, Closing Remarks was third, beaten one length... ...

Bloodhorse Offering Paid Internship

From Bloodhorse BloodHorse will accept applications through April 17 for a new paid internship position to work on the leading industry publication’s various platforms this summer. The accepted intern will work with the BloodHorse editorial department on its monthly magazine, popular website, BloodHorse Daily newsletter, and BH+ website, which features news videos as well as leading industry analysis through MarketWatch and breeding information. The paid internship is being funded by BloodHorse and the National Turf Writers and Broadcasters (NTWAB). “We’re looking forward to launching, with support of the NTWAB, this opportunity for a journalist interested in covering the racing industry,” said BloodHorse Editorial Director Frank Angst, who also is an NTWAB board member. “At BloodHorse, we have a number of platforms to tell stories and any number of topics to cover, from racing, to industry news, to sales, to breeding.” The BloodHorse internship is targeted toward those with an interest in pursuing a journalism career in horse racing. The Lexington, Ky.-based internship will run over eight weeks this... ...

Sassy Nature

Sassy Nature wins $100,000 Melody of Colors Stakes. ...

Sassy Nature Wires Melody of Colors

HALLANDALE BEACH, Fla. (Mar. 25, 2023) – California-bred Sassy Nature led all the way to win Saturday’s $100,000 Melody of Colors Stakes for 3-year-old fillies at Gulfstream Park. Sassy Nature is by Straight Fire, out of the After Market mare Renee’s Queen, was bred by Straight Fire LLC, is owned by CTR Stables and trained by Jack Sisterson. The even-money favorite in a field of 10, Sassy Nature has three wins in five starts, earnings of $151,440 and was coming off a Mar. 1 optional claiming win. She ran the five furlongs on turf in :55.50 and won by 2 ¼ lengths. ...

Teddy’s Barino Ships to Oaklawn Park

HOT SPRINGS, Ark. (Mar. 25, 2023) – Stakes winner Teddy’s Barino is the lone California-bred entered in Friday’s $250,000 Matron Stakes for fillies and mares at Oaklawn Park. Teddy’s Barino is by Grazen, out of the Speightstown mare Miss Rebound, was bred by owner Red Baron’s Barn & Vaya Con Suerte and is trained by Mark Glatt. She has six wins in 10 starts, earnings of $367,590 and is coming off win in a Feb. 18 optional claimer. ...

Quick Turnaround for Clayton Delaney

SUNLAND PARK, N.M. (Mar. 26, 2023) – Clayton Delaney is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $150,000 Sunland Park Handicap. Clayton Delaney is by Grazen, out of the Bertrando mare Sudden Sunday, was bred by Nick Alexander, is owned by Jeremy Ramsland and is trained by Dick Cappellucci. He has four wins in 22 starts, earnings of $181,488 and is being wheeled back seven days after finishing fifth in the Bill Thomas Memorial Stakes. ...

TOC Announces 2022 Owner Awards

From TOC ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 24, 2023) – The Thoroughbred Owners of California (TOC) has announced the winners of its 2022 statistical awards for leading California owners. Reddam Racing was leading owner in total purse earnings; Tommy Town Thoroughbreds LLC led all owners by number of California wins as well as most California starts; and the partnership of Pegram, Watson and Weitman took leading owner for most California stakes wins. Reddam Racing runners earned a total of $2,653,978 in California last year, with 31 wins from 230 starts, including four stakes wins. Their top runners included Del Mar Derby winner Slow Down Andy, Eddie’s New Dream, winner of the California Distaff Handicap and Irish O’Brien Stakes, Absolutely Zero, winner of the Fasig-Tipton Futurity, multiple stakes-placed runner Awake At Midnyte, Fun Money, An Agent Mistake, and Don’t Swear Dave. Tommy Town Thoroughbreds had 52 wins from 251 California starts, for total earnings of $1,659,404. Their top runners included Golden Gate Debutante winner Sally’s Sassy, Empire House, winner of the California Governor’s Cup Stakes, Shoppingforpharoah, Day... ...

Touched by Autism Relocated to Easterbrook

SAN MIGUEL, Calif. (Mar. 27, 2023) – Stakes-winning California stallion Touched by Autism has been relocated to Easterbrook Ranch in San Miguel for the remainder of the 2023 breeding season, owner Johnny Toboada announced. Touched by Autism, a graduate of the Northern California Yearling Sale, is a 10-year-old son of Sierra Sunset who won the 2018 Oakland Stakes at Golden Gate, one of his eight career wins. His first foals arrived this year. ...

Jockey Club Fact Book Available Online

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky (Mar. 23, 2023) — The Jockey Club announced today that the 2023 edition of the Fact Book is available in the Resources section of its website at jockeyclub.com. The online Fact Book is a statistical and informational guide to Thoroughbred breeding, racing, and auction sales in North America and is updated quarterly. It also features a directory of Canadian, international, national, and state organizations. Links to the Breeding Statistics report that is released by The Jockey Club each September and the Report of Mares Bred information that is published by The Jockey Club each October can be found in the Breeding section of the Fact Book. This edition of the Fact Book includes updates to the Reports of Mares Bred (RMBs) and Breeding Statistics sections. RMBs are now sortable by stallion name, number of mares bred, and state. The Breeding Statistics can be sorted by year and then by stallion name, mares bred, reports received, live foals, percent of live foals, and... ...

NorCal Sale Grad Sells for $100,000 at Ocala

OCALA, Fla. (Mar. 22, 2023) – A graduate of the Northern California Yearling Sale sold for $100,000 in Wednesday’s session of the Ocala Breeders’ Sale 2-Year-Olds in Training Sale. The Cat Burglar colt, out of the Harlan’s Holiday mare Janice Sue, was bred by Richard Barton Enterprises, consigned by Triple J Equine Sales and was purchased by Michael Pender, agent for Fihn Holdings. He was timed in 9.4 for on furlong in the under-tack workout. A half-brother to the stakes-placed Sharetheblame, the colt sold for $4,500 to Juan Zamora at the Northern California Yearling Sale. ...

Santa Anita Cancels Friday, Adds Monday

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, CA (March 21, 2023)—With heavy rain and the likelihood of more than three inches of precipitation at Santa Anita through Wednesday, track officials, in consultation with both the CHRB, TOC, Jockeys’ Guild and the CTT, have opted to cancel Friday’s eight-race program and to instead enter on Thursday morning for a make-up day of live racing on Monday, March 27. Along with entries for Monday, entries will also be taken as originally scheduled on Thursday for this Sunday’s races as well. “By running on Monday instead of Friday, we’re going to allow both the main track and our turf course an extra day to dry out before we run on Saturday,” said Santa Anita Director of Racing and Racing Secretary Jason Egan. “This will also enable us to run on the grass all three days and it will give horses a chance to return to training prior to racing this weekend.” Entries for live racing this... ...

One in Vermillion Seeking Derby Points

SUNLAND PARK, N.M. (Mar. 19, 2023) – Multiple stakes winner One in Vermillion is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $600,000 Grade III Sunland Park Derby for 3-year-olds. One in Vermillion is by Army Mule, out of the Any Given Saturday mare Given Star, was bred by Richard Barton Enterprises, is owned by Jonathan Kalman and trained by Esteban Martinez. He has three wins in four starts, earnings of $149,620 and is coming off a win in the Jan. 29 Riley Allison Derby. ...

Is Third Time the Charm for Minister of Soul?

SUNLAND PARK, N.M. (Mar. 19, 2023) – Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Minister of Soul and fellow California-bred Clayton Delaney are entered in Sunday’s $100,000 Bill Thomas Memorial Stakes at Sunland Park. Minister of Soul is by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Bernstein mare Sensitive Soul, was bred by Dahlberg Farms and is owned by trainer Esteban Martinez. He has 16 wins in 52 starts, earnings of $504,242 and is coming off a seventh in the Mar. 11 Phoenix Gold Cup. The $16,000 purchase at the Northern California Yearling Sale was third in this race last year and was second in 2019. Clayton Delaney is by Grazen, out of the Bertrando mare Sudden Sunday, was bred by Nick Alexander, is owned by Jeremy Ramsland and trained by Dick Cappelucci. He has four wins in 21 starts, earnings of $178,488 and did not finish his last start Mar. 11 in the Cottom Fitzsimmons. ...

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