Sir Prancealot’s Sir Busker Wins at Ascot

Jun 18, 2020 Posted by CTBA In News

From The Racing Post Day two at a behind-closed-doors Royal Ascot will be one trainer William Knight never forgets, after he saddled an emotional first winner at the meeting when Sir Busker, a son of California stallion Sir Prancealot, landed the Silver Royal Hunt Cup. The Kennet Valley Thoroughbreds-owned four-year-old powered home late under champion jockey Oisin Murphy to defeat the Roger Varian-trained Salayel by three-quarters of a length with the first four home racing on the stands’ side from stalls 18, 17, 21 and 19. Knight, who recently moved bases from Sussex to Newmarket, said: “When Sir Busker won at Newcastle that was my first runner from the yard, which is important, but that morning my father died and he was a big supporter of mine. “So the horse has a real emotional bond to me now and to enjoy a Royal Ascot win with him is fantastic. All credit has to go to my team. “He’s tailor-made for these big mile handicaps. We’ll go where the money is... ...

Stakes-winning Trio Meet in Melair

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 18, 2020) – Stakes winners Warren’s Showtime, Smiling Shirlee and Big Sweep pack a compact but talented field in Sunday’s $150,000 Melair Stakes for Golden State Series-eligible 3-year-old fillies at Santa Anita. Big Sweep is by Mr. Big, out of the City Zip mare Misszippityslewda, was bred by George Krikorian, is owned by Red Baron’s Barn or Rancho Temescal and is trained by Mark Glatt. She has won both starts with earnings of $123,000 and is coming off a win in the May 16 Echo Eddie. Smiling Shirlee is by Smiling Tiger, out of the Grand Slam mare Whobetterthanus, was bred by Premier Thoroughbreds, is owned by Brown Jr., Klein or Lebherz and is trained by Jeff Bonde. She has three wins in eight starts, earnings of $239,220 and is coming off a win in the May 16 Evening Jewel. Reiwa is by James Street, out of the Utopia mare Oh Molly Brannigan, was bred by owner Willow Tree Farm and is trained by Jonathan Wong. She... ...

Ward ‘n Jerry Goes Long in San Juan Capistrano

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 18, 2020) – Graded winner Ward ‘n Jerry is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $100,000 Grade III San Juan Capistrano Stakes at Santa Anita. Ward ‘n Jerry is by Lucky Pulpit, out of the Dehere mare Tamarack Bay, was bred by owner Mr. & Mrs. Larry Williams and is trained by Mike Puype. He has six wins in 21 starts, earnings of $375,579 and is coming off a fifth in the June 6 Crystal Water. ...

Ultimate Bango Enters Siren Lure

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 18, 2020) – Ultimate Bango is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $75,000 Siren Lure Stakes at Santa Anita. Ultimate Bango is by Uh Oh Bango, out of the Cee’s Tizzy mare Ultimate Summer, was bred by Mitchell Dutko & Bob Abrams, is owned by Abrams, Dutko or Paran and is trained by Blake Heap. He has four wins in 14 starts, earnings of $234245 and is making his first start since a third in the Nov. 24 Cary Grant. ...

Pleasanton Loosens Owner Restrictions

From CARF PLEASANTON, Calif. (June 17, 2020) — Horse owners will now be allowed on grounds for racing at the Alameda County Fairgrounds. Owners must follow these guidelines to be on grounds: Owners only allowed to bring one guest per owner. Owners are allowed to only watch the race their horse is entered in. Owners must abide by the safety protocols of the Alameda County Fair (including wearing a face mask and social distancing.) Owners will be restricted to access only the apron and paddock areas. We have also learned that the Alameda County Health Department has approved outside dining at the Fairgrounds. The Fairgrounds will be hosting Trackside Terrace Outdoor Patio Dining on the second level of the Grandstand that owners may purchase tickets to. Those who are participating in the dining experience will be allowed to stay for the full duration of the race card. Those tickets can be purchased here and include a meal and bottomless cocktails. Questions about watching your horse run? Contact Tom Doutrich... ...

Margot’s Boy Risks Win Streak in Snow Chief

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 17, 2020) – Margot’s Boy puts a three-race win streak on the line in Saturday’s $150,000 Snow Chief Stakes for Golden State Series-eligible 3-year-olds at Santa Anita. Sacred Rider is by Lucky Pulpit, out of the Ride the Rails mare Lady Railrider, was bred by owners Mr. & Mrs. Larry Williams and is trained by Steve Specht. He has two wins in 13 starts, earnings of $134,234 and is coming off a second in a May 30 optional claimer. Margot’s Boy is by Clubhouse Ride, out of the Creachadoir mare Margot Marchance, was bred by owner Alfred Pais and is trained by Craig Lewis. He has three wins in four starts, earnings of $108,020 and has a three-race win streak. Canyon Crest is by Karakontie, out of the Bernardini mare Capaz, was bred by owner Richard Barton and is trained by Michael McCarthy. He has two wins in eight starts, earnings of $76,841 and is coming off a sixth in a May 22 optional claimer. Descartes is... ...

Phantom Boss Seeks Second Graded Win

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 17, 2020) – Graded winner Phantom Boss is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Grade III Lazaro Barrera Stakes for 3-year-olds at Santa Anita. Phantom Boss is by Shackleford, out of the Street Boss mare Bossy Belle, was bred by Terry Lovingier, is owned by Beckerle, Lovingier or Navarro and is trained by Jorge Periban. He has two wins in six starts, earnings of $141,339 and is coming off a fourth in the June 6 Desert Code. ...

Cordiality Lone Cal-bred in Wilshire

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 17, 2020) – Multiple stakes winner Cordiality is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Grade III Wilshire Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita. Cordiality is by Papa Clem, out of the Unusual Heat mare Warmth, was bred by Dr. Ed Allred, is owned by Donnie Crevier and trained by Tim Yakteen. She has 10 wins in 30 starts, earnings of $504,835 and is coming off a fifth in the June 6 Fran’s Valentine. She was third in this race last year. ...

Collmus to Sub for Denman at Del Mar

From DMTC Publicity DEL MAR, Calif. (June 17, 2020) — Larry Collmus, the voice of the Triple Crown and the Breeders’ Cup on NBC television and a national race caller with 35 years of experience on his ledger, will become the announcer at Del Mar this summer when he steps in on a “pinch hitting” assignment for the track’s regular caller, Trevor Denman. Because of health concerns surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, Denman recently told Del Mar officials that he and his wife Robin did not wish to travel away from their Minnesota farm and asked to kindly bow out of his summer assignment. Del Mar, of course, said yes to the iconic announcer who has been its caller for the past 36 years. “When Trevor told us of his situation, we naturally had to respect what he was feeling,” said Josh Rubinstein, Del Mar Thoroughbred Club’s president and COO. “We immediately worked up a short list of possible replacements and Larry was the man we zeroed in on. Happily, he... ...

Tiger Dad

Tiger Dad wins $100,000 Thor’s Echo. ...

Tiger Dad Digs In to Win Thor’s Echo

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (June 13, 2020)–With most of the attention focused on last year’s winner, trainer Carla Gaines’ “Avis choice,” consistent Tiger Dad, set the tone early as he battled head and head for the lead with a well-meant Principe Carlo, eventually gaining the ascendency in deep stretch as he drew off to win Saturday’s $100,000 Thor’s Echo Stakes for Golden State Series eligibles by three quarters of length. Ridden by regular pilot Victor Espinoza, Tiger Dad, a 4-year-old California-bred gelding by Smiling Tiger, got six furlongs in 1:09.56 while never threatened by his well fancied stablemate Desert Law, who checked in third as the even money favorite. “I have been riding him quite a few times (his last eight races), so I really have the confidence in him,” said Espinoza. “When some other horse is outside, it is exactly what he wants because he won’t let them go by. I didn’t want to take the lead too soon because he has a bad habit of waiting... ...

CHRB Meeting Summary

From CHRB The California Horse Racing Board conducted a meeting by teleconference on Thursday, June 11. The public participated by dialing into the teleconference and/or listening through the audio webcast link on the CHRB website. Dr. Gregory Ferraro chaired the meeting, joined by Vice Chair Oscar Gonzales and Commissioners Dennis Alfieri, Damascus Castellanos, Wendy Mitchell, and Alex Solis. 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 approved a regulatory amendment that further restricts the use of the riding crop in both racing and training. The rule prohibits using the crop more than six times in the race, excluding simply showing the crop to the horse or tapping the horse on the shoulder, and within that limit prohibits using the crop more than two times in succession without giving the horse time to respond. The rule cites the proper way for using the crop in an underhanded position without it ever rising above the shoulders of the... ...

TOC Raises Participation Guarantee

From TOC ARCADIA, Calif. (June 12, 2020) – The unfortunate combination of seven weeks of no live racing coupled with statewide increases in workers compensation costs have created a funding shortfall for the horse industry’s workers compensation program covering jockeys and backstretch workers that is operated by Post Time Self Insurance. As a result, Post Time has found it necessary to increase the amounts to be paid by both owners and trainers, which fund the majority of program costs via per-stall charges from trainers and race per-start fees from owners. The owners’ per-start fee will be raised from $120 to $149 effective July 1, 2020. The per-start fee will continue to be automatically deducted from the owner’s paymaster account every time they start a horse.To offset increased workers’ compensation per-start increases and provide additional financial support to California owners, TOC authorized an increase in the Guaranteed Participation Purses earlier this year from $351 to $500 per start in Southern California and from $300 to $450 at Golden Gate Fields.Guaranteed participation... ...

Cal-bred Kitten’s Joy Filly Sells for $115,000

OCALA, Fla. (June 12, 2020) – A California-bred filly by Kitten’s Joy sold for $115,000 in Friday’s final session of the Ocala Sales Spring Sale of 2-Year-olds. The filly, out of the Dynaformer mare Dynarhythm, was bred by Hanson’s River Ranch, was consigned by Sequel Bloodstock and purchased by Red Baron’s Barn and Rancho Temescal. She’s a full sister to Fear the Kitten, a stakes-placed winner of $232,505. ...

Camino Del Paraiso on Road to S.F. Mile

ALBANY, Calif. (June 12, 2020) – Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Camino Del Paraiso is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $250,000 Grade III San Francisco Mile Stakes at Golden Gate. Camino Del Paraiso is by Suances, out of the Successful Appeal mare Loni’s Appeal, was bred by Red Baron’s Barn, is owned by Paradise Road Ranch and is trained by O.J. Jauregui. The $5,000 purchase at the Northern California Yearling Sale has five wins in 36 starts, earnings of $370,192 and is coming off a third in the May 25 All American Stakes. He was fifth in this race in 2018 and sixth in 2017. ...

Possibly Perfect Lures Streak of Luck

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 11, 2020) – Streak of Luck is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $75,000 Possibly Perfect 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 26 starts, earnings of $305,859 and is coming off a third in a May 25 optional claimer. ...

Desert Law Seeks Repeat in Return

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 11, 2020) – Defending champion Desert Law returns from an 11-month layoff in Saturday’s $100,000 Thor’s Echo Handicap for Golden State Series eligible at Santa Anita. Desert Law is by Desert Code, out of the Lemon Drop Kid mare Treasure Chest, was bred by owner Harris Farms and is trained by Carla Gaines. He has five wins in 16 starts, earnings of $319,707 and is making his first start since a second in the July 27 Bing Crosby. He won this race last year. Tiger Dad is by Smiling Tiger, out of the Unusual Heat mare Q T Shea, was bred by owners Devereaux or Gross and is trained by Carla Gaines. He has three wins in 14 starts, earnings of $216,661 and is coming off a second in a May 17 optional claimer. Stakes-winning Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Oliver is by Papa Clem, out of the Premiership mare Snobby Princess, was bred by Thomas Bachman, is owned by William Peeples and is trained by Doug... ...

Been Studying Her in Angel’s Flight

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 11, 2020) – Multiple stakes winner Been Studying Her is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $75,000 Angel’s Flight Stakes for 3-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 Art Sherman. She has three wins in seven starts, earnings of $229,780 and is coming off a third in the May 16 Evening Jewel. ...

Bettor Trip Nick Sent to Alcatraz Stakes

ALBANY, Calif. (June 11, 2020) – Multiple stakes winner Bettor Trip Nick and fellow California-breds Darn Quick and Indian Peak are entered in Saturday’s $75,000 Alcatraz Stakes for 3-year-olds at Golden Gate. Bettor Trip Nick is by Boat Trip, out of the In Excess mare Bettor Knot, was bred by Running Horse Equine Training Center, is owned by William Delia, Gary Oetman or Ray Pagano and is trained by Delia. He has four wins in seven starts, earnings of $141,180 and is coming off a fourth in the May 16 Echo Eddie. Darn Quick is by Run Brother Ron, out of the Forest Camp mare Darncat, was bred by owner Clifford Plum and is trained by Allen Rogers. He has three wins in five starts, earnings of $73,090 and is coming off an eighth in a May 17 optional claimer. Indian Peak is by Comic Strip, out of the Roar mare Ms. Booty, was bred by owners Dr. and Mrs. William Gray and is trained by Quinn Howey. He has... ...

Breeders’ Cup Members Announced

From Bloodhorse.com LEXINGTON, Ky. (June 10, 2020) — The Breeders’ Cup announced June 9 that 19 individuals were elected to serve as Breeders’ Cup members. Voting for the 2020 member election by Breeders’ Cup 2019 foal and stallion nominators concluded at 5:00 p.m. ET June 8. The following individuals, listed alphabetically, received the most votes of the Breeders’ Cup nominators to fill 19 member seats, and will serve four-year terms: Conrad Bandoroff, Barbara Banke, Jimmy Bell, Boyd Browning, Doug Cauthen, Craig Fravel, Eric Gustavson, Dr. Andreas Jacobs, W. Gray Lyster IV, Clem Murphy, Maria Niarchos-Gouazé, David O’Farrell, Bill Oppenheim, Bernie Sams, Alex Solis II, Oliver Tait, W. Elliott Walden, Barry Weisbord, Aron Wellman. “It is an honor to welcome our new and re-elected members to serve with us over the next four years,” said Fred Hertrich III, Breeders’ Cup chairman. “We look forward to their meaningful contributions, along with our other sitting members, toward our efforts to further grow and expand the popularity of the Breeders’ Cup World Championships, improve... ...

Kelsey’s Cross Wins Ginger Punch

From Gulfstream Park Publicity HALLANDALE BEACH, Fla. (June 9, 2020) – Given a short freshening after competing in five consecutive graded-stakes dating back to last fall, Kelsey’s Cross got some class relief and rallied to secure her elusive first career stakes victory in Saturday’s $100,000 Ginger Punch for Florida-breds at Gulfstream Park. Kelsey’s Cross is a Florida-bred by California stallion Anthony’s Cross, who stands at Rancho de los Aviadores. Ridden by Luca Panici for trainer Patrick Biancone, who co-owns the 4-year-old filly with Sanford Bancon, Kelsey’s Cross ($7.80) completed the distance in 1:42.94 over a turf course rated good as the 5-2 second choice in a field of 11. Kelsey’s Cross was last seen finishing ninth in the Orchid (G3) March 28 at Gulfstream, three weeks after her third-place effort in the Hillsborough (G2) at Tampa. Also third in the Wonder Again (G3), Martha Washington and Saratoga Oaks last summer, she had been training steadily for her comeback at Palm Meadows, Gulfstream’s satellite training facility in Palm Beach County. “It’s... ...

Santa Anita Pushes Back Post Time to 1 p.m.

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (June 7, 2020)–With six racing days and a total of 11 stakes races remaining in its current Winter Spring Meeting, Santa Anita Park has announced it will go with a 1 p.m. first post time beginning Friday, June 12 through closing day, Sunday, June 21. The track will offer a pair of stakes this Saturday, June 13, the $75,000 Angels Flight, for 3-year-old fillies at 6 ½ furlongs and the $100,000 Thor’s Echo Stakes, for California-bred or sired 3-year-olds and up at six furlongs. On Sunday, June 14, fillies and mares three and up will go a mile and one quarter on turf in the $75,000 Possibly Perfect Stakes. Four graded stakes remain at the current meet, the Grade III, $100,000 Lazaro Barrera for 3-year-olds at 6 ½ furlongs on Saturday, June 20; the Grade III, the $100,000 Wilshire, for fillies and mares three and up going one mile on turf also on June 20; the Grade III, $100,000 American Stakes, for three year... ...

After a Year Off, Mikes Tiznow Repeats

ALBANY, Calif. (June 6, 2020) – In his first start back after a year on the sidelines, Mikes Tiznow successfully defended his title in Saturday’s $50,000 Albany Stakes at Golden Gate. Mikes Tiznow is by Slew’s Tiznow, out of the Maria’s Mon mare Babes Bridge It, was bred by Eagle Ridge Racing, is owned by Mike Schott and trained by Andy Mathis. The 5-year-old gelding has five wins in nine starts with earnings of $187,555. Mikes Tiznow ran the five furlongs in :56.26 and won by three-quarters of a length at odds of 9-2 in a field of nine. ...

Grinning Tiger in 92-1 Crystal Water Shocker

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (June 6, 2020)–In his first-ever try going two turns on grass, the Anthony Saavedra-trained Grinning Tiger went to the front and never looked back, winning Saturday’s $100,000 Crystal Water Stakes for Golden State Series eligibles by 1 ¾ lengths at odds of 90-1. Ridden by Heriberto Figueroa, the 5-year-old Oregon-bred gelding by California stallion Smiling Tiger got a flat mile on turf in 1:35.75. Fitted with blinkers in his last three starts, Grinning Tiger was most recently sixth going 5 ½ furlongs on turf versus statebreds in the 5 ½ furlong Sensational Star Stakes here on March 22. “I really did think we could get it done,” said an elated Saavedra. “He shuts off (relaxes) so easy, he’s not a runoff. He will just bow that head and do whatever we want him to do. We were dying to try two turns…We were going to scratch him at the last minute, but we all came together and said he needs to run.” In his... ...

Grinning Tiger

Grinning Tiger wins $100,000 Crystal Water Stakes. ...

Super Patriot

Super Patriot wins $100,000 Fran’s Valentine. ...

Super Patriot Rallies to Win Fran’s Valentine

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (June 6, 2020)–Last by about seven lengths heading into the far turn, Super Patriot rallied three-deep turning for home to win Saturday’s $100,000 Fran’s Valentine Stakes for Golden State Series eligible fillies and mares by 1 ¾ lengths under a well executed hand ride from Santa Anita’s leading man Flavien Prat. Trained by Richard Baltas, the 5-year-old Unusual Heat mare got a mile on turf in 1:35.66. Well beaten in the Grade II Buena Vista Stakes going a mile turf Feb. 22, Super Patriot was the 3-2 favorite with Prat aboard for the first time and in a field of six California-bred or sired fillies and mares paid $5.00, $2.80 and $2.10. “She’s not easy to deal with, but she’s special,” said Baltas, who notched his meet-leading 27th win. “She’s got a great turn of foot. They were walking, but she was off the bridle and looked very comfortable. All I told Flavien was ‘Don’t get her stopped.’ She was inside, they he took... ...

CHRB Meeting Advisory

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (June 5, 2020) — The California Horse Racing Board will conduct a teleconference meeting on Thursday, June 11, beginning at 9:30 a.m. Consistent with the Governor’s Executive Order N-29-20, the meeting will be teleconference only and no physical location will be provided. The public is encouraged to participate in either of two ways: The webcast audio link on the CHRB website will continue to provide a way for the public to listen to the meeting. Furthermore, those wishing to speak during the meeting may dial 888-392-4564 and enter 6896291# when prompted. The operator will provide instructions to those wishing to speak on any agenda item. Those providing public comment on individual agenda items will be limited to two minutes. Note that for agenda item #15, Public Comment, no further comments will be permitted after 30 minutes. The agenda and package of materials for this teleconference meeting are available on the CHRB website. ...

Lava Man to Lead Gold Cup Post Parade

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (June 4, 2020)—A three-time winner of the prestigious Hollywood Gold Cup, legendary California-bred Lava Man, who currently resides at trainer Doug O’Neill’s Barn 88, will lead the parade to the post for the race’s 81st running this Saturday at Santa Anita. Run at Hollywood Park from 1938 through 2013, the iconic mile and one quarter fixture for 3-year-olds and up was shifted to Santa Anita in 2014 and renamed the Gold Cup at Santa Anita. Recently restored to its original title, the Grade I, $300,000 Hollywood Gold Cup will be run as the 10th race on an 11-race program on Saturday, with approximate post time listed at 5:12 p.m. PT. Lava Man, a dark bay gelding foaled on March 20, 2001, is by Slew City Slew and is out of the Nostalgia’s Star mare Li’L Ms. Leonard. He was bred by Lonnie Arterburn and Eve and Kim Kuhlmann. A winner of three consecutive Gold Cups from 2005-07, Lava Man became the... ...

Streaking Fashionably Fast in Triple Bend

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 4, 2020) – Fashionably Fast risks his six-race win streak in Sunday’s $200,000 Grade II Triple Bend Stakes at Santa Anita. Fashionably Fast is by Lucky Pulpit, out of the Forestry mare Fall Fashion, was bred by Harris Farms, is owned by Harris Farms, Antonsen or Nicoletti and is trained by Dean Pederson. He has seven wins in 16 starts, earnings of $449,745 and has won his last six starts, four of them stakes, most recently the Mar. 1 Tiznow Stakes. ...

Blue Diva Shows Up for Golden Poppy

ALBANY, Calif. (June 4, 2020) – Stakes winner Blue Diva is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $75,000 Golden Poppy Stakes for fillies and mares at Golden Gate. Blue Diva is by Bluegrass Cat, out of the Quiet American mare Farmers Wife, was bred by BKB Stables, is owned by Frankly Speaking and trained by Isidro Tamayo. She has seven wins in 19 starts, earnings of $199,209 and is coming off a Feb. 28 allowance win. ...

Sunday Golden Gate Works Open to Owners

From TOC ALBANY, Calif. (June 4, 2020) — Golden Gate Fields is inviting owners to watch their horses exercise on Sunday morning, June 7. On that day, owners can check in with the security hut adjacent to the main stable gate entrance, answer the GGF questionnaire, be issued a pass, and proceed via the vets gate to the winners circle. All parties must wear face masks at all times and practice social distancing. The time frame will be from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. Owners will not be allowed access to the barn area. Unfortunately, at this time, Golden Gate Fields does not have the capacity to provide refreshments of any kind. Owners are still not allowed to attend a live race day. We appreciate Golden Gate Fields taking this first step in allowing owners to see their horses training. ...

Crystal Water Entices Graded Stakes Winners

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 3, 2020) – Graded winners Prince Earl and Ward ‘n Jerry are among the entries in Saturday’s $100,000 Crystal Water Stakes for Golden State Series eligible at Santa Anita. Cono is a Kentucky-bred by California stallion Lucky Pulpit, out of the Cowboy Cal mare Cashmere, was bred by owner John & Diane Fradkin and is trained by Michael McCarthy. He has three wins in 20 starts, earnings of $159,646 and is coming off a win in a Mar. 7 optional claimer. Grinning Tiger is an Oregen-bred by California stallion Smiling Tiger, out of a Pioneering mare Karlee’s Kitten, was bred by Patrick Cosgrove, is owned by Tyree Wolesensky and is trained by Anthony Saavedra. He has seven wins in 26 starts, earnings of $149,801 and is coming off a second in the Mar. 22 Sensational Star. Graded winner 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... ...

Fran’s Valentine Draws Potent Lineup

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 3, 2020) – Multiple stakes winners Pulpit Rider and Warren’s Showtime are entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Fran’s Valentine Stakes for Golden State Series fillies and mares at Santa Anita. Sedamar is by Richard’s Kid, out of the Stormy Atlantic mare Win Allison Win, was bred by Mick Ruis, is owned by Ruis Racing and trained by Shelbe Ruis. She has four wins in 12 starts, earnings of $221,624 and is coming off a consecutive optional claiming wins. 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 or Salvatore, et al and is trained by Richard Baltas. He has five wins in 27 starts, earnings of $293,954 and is coming off a seventh in the Feb. 22 Buena Vista. Pulpit Rider is by Lucky Pulpit, out of the Ride the Rails mare Lady Railrider, was bred by owner Mr. and Mrs. Larry Williams and is trained by Mike Puype. She... ...

Smiling Shirlee Stepping Up to Oaks

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 3, 2020) – Stakes winner Smiling Shirlee is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $200,000 Grade II Santa Anita Oaks for 3-year-old fillies. Smiling Shirlee is by Smiling Tiger, out of the Grand Slam mare Whobetterthanus, was bred by Premier Thoroughbreds, is owned by Brown, Klein or Lebherz and is trained by Jeff Bonde. She has three wins in eight starts, earnings of $239,220 and is coming off a win in the May 16 Evening Jewel. ...

Club Aspen on the Marquee for Cinema

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 3, 2020) – Stakes winner Club Aspen is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $150,000 Cinema Stakes for 3-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 two wins in 10 starts, earnings of $154,211 and is coming off a third in the May 16 Echo Eddie. ...

Phantom Boss, El Tigre Terrible in Desert Code

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 3, 2020) – Stakes winners Phantom Boss and El Tigre Terrible and fellow California-bred Rookie Mistake are entered in Saturday’s $75,000 Desert Code Stakes for 3-year-olds at Santa Anita. Phantom Boss is by Shackleford, out of the Street Boss mare Bossy Belle, was bred by Terry Lovingier, is owned by Beckerle, Lovingier or Navarro, et al, and is trained by Jorge Periban. He has two wins in five starts, earnings of $135,201 and is coming off a fifth in the May 16 Echo Eddie. El Tigre Terrible is by Smiling Tiger, out of the Gotham City mare King City Kitty, was bred by Martin Bach, is owned by Slam Dunk Racing or Nentwig and is trained by Peter Miller. He has three wins in five starts, earnings of $118,300 and is making his first start since a win in the Oct. 6 Speakeasy. Rookie Mistake is by Square Eddie, out of the General Meeting mare Meetmeinthewoods, was bred by owner Reddam Racing and is trained by Doug... ...

Mikes Tiznow Returns Seeking Repeat

ALBANY, Calif. (June 3, 2020) – Defending champion Mikes Tiznow, running for the first time since winning this race a year ago, is joined by fellow California-breds Sunset Dragunn and Daddysprize in Saturday’s $50,000 Albany Stakes at Golden Gate. Mikes Tiznow is by Slew’s Tiznow, out of the Maria’s Mon mare Babes Bridge It, was bred by Eagle Ridge Racing, is owned by Mike Schott and trained by Andy Mathis. He has four wins in eight starts, earnings of $157,555 and is making his first start since winning this race last year. Sunset Dragunn is by Sierra Sunset, out of the Indian Charlie mare Luke’s Finest, was bred by Lorrie Anthony-Wanger and Oliver Wanger, is owned by La Penita Racing Stable, Gomez or Gonzalez and is trained by Tirso Rivera. He has five wins in 28 starts, earnings of $168,976 and is coming off a third in a Mar. 7 claimer. Daddysprize is by Scatt Daddy, out of the You and I mare Youtheprizeandi, was bred by owner Jethorse and... ...

Cal-bred Lennyfromalibu Passes at Age 21

From Harris Auerbach COTTONWOOD, Calif. (May 30, 2020) — Multiple stakes winner, former course record holder and important California horse retirement figure Lennyfromalibu passed away due to complications from colic on Thursday evening at his home at Tranquility Farm in Cottonwood, Calif. He was 21. Bred in California by owners Jim and Madeline Auerbach, Lennyfromalibu hailed from the first crop of California’s All Time Leading Sire Unusual Heat and was the first foal of the Half A Year mare Style of the Year. Lenny is widely recognized as the horse who put Unusual Heat on the map as his first star runner. Unusual Heat would go on to become a 7 time leading sire in California while Lenny’s dam Style of the Year would become an important foundation mare of 15 foals amassing over $1.6 million in earnings and producers of black type runners. A versatile athlete with pure speed, Lenny won races on dirt and turf and both sprinting and around 2 turns. Trained by Barry Abrams, he won the 2003 California Cup Mile... ...

Cal-bred Pair in California Oaks

ALBANY, Calif. (May 29, 2020) – California-breds Reiwa and Mollie O ‘ McEvoy are entered in Sunday’s $75,000 California Oaks for 3-year-old fillies at Golden Gate. Reiwa is by James Street, out of the Utopia mare Oh Molly Brannagan, was bred by owner Willow Tree Farm and trained by Jonathan Wong. She has one win in seven starts, earnings of $58,540 and is coming off a second in a Mar. 29 optional claimer. Mollie O ‘ McEvoy is by Clubhouse Ride, out of the Game Plan mare Mollie O, was bred by owners Bill Delia, Patricia George & Mike Stone and is trained by Delia. She has three wins in five starts, earnings of $55,932 and is coming off a Mar. 8 optional claiming win. ...

Del Mar Lists Eight Golden State Series Stakes

DEL MAR, Calif. (May 29, 2020) — Del Mar will offer eight California-bred stakes, part of the Golden State Series consisting of 39 restricted stakes for registered California-bred or California-sired horses. They are: Friday, July 24 $100,000 Fleet Treat Stakes, for 3-year-old fillies at seven furlongs; Sunday, July 26 $125,000 California Dreamin’ Stakes, for 3-year-olds and up at 1 1/16 miles (turf); Friday, July 31 $100,000 Real Good Deal Stakes, for 3-year-olds at seven furlongs; Saturday, August 1 $100,000 CTBA Stakes, for 2-year-old fillies at 5 1/2 furlongs; Sunday, August 2, $100,000 Graduation Stakes, for 2-year-olds at 5 1/2 furlongs; Saturday, August 15, $125,000 Solana Beach Stakes, for 3-year-olds and up, fillies and mares at one mile (turf); Sunday, August 30, $100,000 Generous Portion Stakes, for 2-year-old fillies at six furlongs; Friday, September 4, $100,000 I’m Smokin Stakes, for 2-year-olds at six furlongs ...

Racing Launches National Ad Campaign

From NTRA WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 28, 2020) — The NTRA has made a major financial commitment to a newly created national advertising campaign focused on the thrill of watching and wagering on horseracing. The campaign, titled “Still. Running. Strong.”, launched today by the Breeders’ Cup and The Jockey Club, represents a chance for horseracing to gain additional attention at a time when it is attracting widespread television coverage and is one of the only live sporting events currently being conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Now is an unprecedented opportunity for horseracing to attract additional fans and for the NTRA to support its members,” said Alex Waldrop, NTRA President and CEO. “With the extensive COVID-19 safety protocols that our racetrack operators have implemented for their employees and participants, the NTRA is glad to play a part in this collaborative initiative that showcases the best of what horseracing offers sports fans and bettors.” The campaign includes broadcast, digital and social elements and highlights the bond between human and horse, along... ...

Del Mar Planning July 10 Opening

From DMTC Publicity DEL MAR, Calif. (May 28, 2020) — The Del Mar Thoroughbred Club announced today its intention to begin the 2020 summer race meet on July 10 and employ a three-day-a-week race schedule pending the approval of the California Horse Racing Board at its June 11 meeting. Further, following guidelines issued by San Diego County public health officials, California state officials and in consultation with other public health experts, the track’s traditional summer meeting is preparing to operate without spectators, but will continue to work with state and local officials to adopt any changes as they happen. In all cases, Del Mar will follow similar COVID-19 protocols that have enabled racing to be conducted safely in California and throughout the country. “We’re coming back and we’re going to put on the most unique show in Del Mar history,” said Del Mar’s CEO, Joe Harper. “It’s going to look different, it’s going to feel different, but it’s going to be first-class horse racing at Del Mar and in these... ...

Owners May Attend Workouts at Santa Anita

From TOC ARCADIA, Calif. (May 27, 20o20) — Santa Anita has announced a comprehensive plan to allow CHRB licensed owners at the race track to watch their horses breeze in the mornings. Since the number of owners attending at one time will be limited to comply with county health department protocols, reservations must be made ahead of time by your trainer. Trainers will be able to make reservations through the Santa Anita Racing Office for their owners to attend on a first-come-first-served basis. The new owners’ viewing area has been set aside in the Clubhouse section of the Grandstand overlooking the far turn. The viewing area contains tables and chairs, which have been appropriately spaced for social distancing. Extensive cleaning and disinfecting of the viewing area and restrooms will be done regularly to conform to COVID-19 protocols. There will also be coffee service available in the viewing area. Owners must enter Santa Anita through Gate 8 off Baldwin Avenue and park in the Clubhouse Valet. They will enter through the Clubhouse... ...

CHRB Debates NorCal Summer Racing Dates

By Bloodhorse.com SACRAMENTO, Calif. (May 27, 2020) — The framework for a summer racing season in Northern California was discussed during a May 27 teleconference of the California Horse Racing Board Race Dates Committee, though the finalization of dates will not take place until the CHRB regular monthly meeting June 11. Under dates mentioned by committee members Oscar Gonzales and Wendy Mitchell, the summer racing season in Northern California could include an Alameda County Fair race meet at Pleasanton from June 19-July 12 followed by a Cal Expo at Pleasanton meet from July 17-Aug 2. Those dates would be contingent on Pleasanton receiving authorization from the Alameda County Public Health Department to race amid the COVID-19 pandemic, and CHRB approval at the June 11 meeting. Golden Gate Fields, currently running spectatorless and set to race through June 14, could pick up summer fair dates, resuming racing Aug. 7 and staging a Santa Rosa at Golden Gate meet through Aug. 16. It could then continue with other race dates through Oct.... ...

Horsemen Approve Workers’ Comp Deal

From TOC ARCADIA, Calif. (May 26, 2020) — The California Thoroughbred Business League (CTBL) board today unanimously approved a subsidy of $2 million from its reserves to be paid to Post Time Self Insurance Group, the entity which insures California trainers for workers’ compensation. CTBL, Post Time and the California Thoroughbred Trainers (CTT) have agreed to support the creation of a new position of Director of Safety to establish and regulate uniform safety standards and to oversee and coordinate those standards at California tracks and auxiliary training facilities. “We spent substantial time over the last three months working with the trainers and Post Time to develop substantial improvements in the workers’ comp program, including significant safety initiatives,” said Nick Alexander, TOC Chairman and representative on the CTBL board. “I especially want to thank Tim Yakteen, Post Time president and southern California vice-president of CTT, for his important input and the countless hours he contributed to the process.” “We greatly appreciate this funding from the CTBL,” said Yakteen. “It was vital... ...

Spiced Perfection Enters Winning Colors

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (May 25, 2020) – Two-time California-bred Horse of the Year Spiced Perfection and fellow Cal-bred stakes winner Sneaking Out are entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Grade III Winning Colors Stakes at Churchill Downs. Multiple Grade I winner Spiced Perfection is by Smiling Tiger, out of the Pleasantly Perfect mare Perfect Feat, was bred by Premier Thoroughbreds, is owned by Haruya Yoshida and is trained by Mark Casse. She has nine wins in 21 starts, earnings of $1,223,705 and is coming off a fourth in the Jan. 25 Inside Information. 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 Jerry Hollendorfer. She has four wins in nine starts, earnings of $308,531 and is coming off an Apr. 25 allowance win. ...

Ima Happy Cat, Fantasy Heat in Camilla Urso

ALBANY, Calif. (May 25, 2020) – Stakes winners Ima Happy Cat and Fantasy Heat are among seven California-breds entered in Saturday’s $75,000 Camilla Urso Stakes for fillies and mares at Golden Gate. Coco Bee is by Richard’s Kid, out of the Slewdledo mare Hope I Do, was bred by owner Chappell Alpine Farms and is trained by Blaine Wright. She has five wins in 10 starts, earnings of $136,011 and is coming off a third in a Mar. 22 allowance. Ima Happy Cat is by Smiling Tiger, out of the Wekiva Springs mare Infernal McGoon, was bred by Dale Mahlum, is owned by Tim & Sue Spooner and is trained by Dan Markle. She has six wins in 21 starts, earnings of $221,038 and is coming off a second in a Mar. 22 allowance. Princess Vivian is by Uh Oh Bango, out of the Macho Uno mare Seductive Charm, was bred by NMN Thoroughbreds, is owned by NMN Thoroughbreds, MacDonald, Marsh & Mendoza and is trained by Sergio Ledezma. She... ...

CTBA Sales Grads on a Winning Spree

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 24, 2020) – Graduates of California Thoroughbred Breeders Sales have won five races in the state this weekend. Salsa Verde, a 3-year-old daughter of U S Ranger, won a maiden claimer at Golden Gate on Thursday. Out of the Victory Gallop mare Blue Sky Holiday, Salsa Verde was bred by Liberty Road Stables, is owned by trainer Paul Aguirre and Bryce Packnit and was purchased at the 2019 CTBA January Mixed Sale for $1,000. Take the One O One, a 5-year-old by Acclimation, won an optional allowance claimer at Santa Anita on Friday. Out of the Jump Start mare North Freeway, Take the One O One was bred by Thomas Bachman, is owned by Jay Em Ess Stable, is trained by Brian Koriner and was a $47,000 purchase at the 2016 Northern California Yearling Sale. Take the One O One has five wins in 13 starts, earnings of $382,306 and is graded-stakes placed. Gardees World, a 2-year-old filly by Atticus, won an open maiden special weight race... ...

Mucho Unusual Enters Gamely Stakes

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 22, 2020) – Graded stakes winner Mucho Unusual is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $300,000 Grade I Gamely Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita. 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 12 starts, earnings of $469,382 and is coming off a third in the Feb. 22 Buena Vista. ...

Cal-bred Pair in Monrovia Stakes

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 22, 2020) – California-bred stakes winners Stealthediamonds and Just Grazed Me are entered in Sunday’s $200,000 Grade II Monrovia Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita. Stealthediamonds is by Unusual Heat, out of the Pure Prize mare No Better Terms, was bred by KMN Racing, is owned by Driver or Driver and is trained by Mike Puype. She has six wins in 18 starts, earnings of $309,875 and is coming off a second in the Mar. 22 Sensational Star. Just Grazed Me is by Grazen, out of the Cuvee mare Fairway Road, was bred by owner Nick Alexander and is trained by Phil D’Amato. She has six wins in 12 starts, earnings of $430,332 and is coming off a fourth in the Mar. 22 Sensational Star. ...

Camino Del Paraiso in All American

ALBANY, Calif. (May 22, 2020) – Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Camino Del Paraiso and fellow California-bred Premium Forest are entered in Monday’s $100,000 All American Stakes at Golden Gate. Camino Del Paraiso is by Suances, out of the Successful Appeal mare Loni’s Appeal, was bred by Red Baron’s Barn, is owned by Paradise Road Ranch and trained by O.J. Juaregui. The $5,000 purchase at the Northern California Yearling Sale has five wins in 35 starts, earnings of $358,192 and is coming off a second in the Mar. 21 San Luis Rey Stakes. He was ninth in this race in 2017. Premium Forest is by Forest Command, out of the Any Given Saturday mare Saturday Premium, was bred by Four Quarters Corp., is owned by Steve Goldberg and trained by Isidro Tamayo. He has 12 wins in 26 starts, earnings of $183,825 and is coming off a three-race win streak. ...

Black-type Purse Minimum Lowered

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (May 21, 2020) — The North American International Cataloguing Standards Committee (NAICSC) met today and voted to lower the minimum purse requirement for existing non-listed black-type races by 20% for the remainder of 2020. Given the negative economic impacts of COVID-19-related restrictions on available sources for purse funds, the minimum purse value for non-listed black-type races that ran prior to 2019 will be reduced from $50,000 to $40,000 for the remainder of 2020, and the minimum purse value for non-listed black-type races that ran for the first time in 2019 will be reduced from $75,000 to $60,000 for their second running in 2020. Requests to receive black-type for any new races will continue to be reviewed by a subcommittee of NAICSC and require a minimum purse of $75,000. ...

New Connections for Spiced Perfection

By Bloodhorse.com LOUISVILLE, Ky. (May 17, 2020) — Back-to-back California-bred Horse of the Year Spiced Perfection has been privately purchased and transferred from trainer Peter Miller to Mark Casse. The 5-year-old mare will target the $100,000 Winning Colors Stakes (G3) May 30 going six furlongs at Churchill Downs, according to Casse. “She was privately purchased by Haruya Yoshida over the winter, and she’s been a great addition to our barn,” Casse said. “I think we’re going to be on target for the Winning Colors and get her 5-year-old campaign going at Churchill.” The multiple Grade I-winning Spiced Perfection recorded a bullet May 17, getting a half-mile in :47 on a fast track at Churchill. The work was the fastest of 134 at the distance. The California-bred daughter of Smiling Tiger worked an opening quarter-mile split of :22 3/5 and galloped out five furlongs in 1:02. Spiced Perfection’s previous ownership group was Pantofel Stable, Wachtel Stable, and Peter Deutsch. She has earned over $1.2 million with grade 1 wins in the La Brea... ...

Smiling Shirlee

Smiling Shirlee wins $150,000 Evening Jewel Stakes. ...

Big Sweep

Big Sweep wins $150,000 Echo Eddie Stakes. ...

Smiling Shirlee Wins Evening Jewel

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (May 16, 2020)–Unhurried early from her rail post position, Smiling Shirlee, under confident handling from Mike Smith, came running late to overhaul a well meant Bella Vita in taking Saturday’s $150,000 Evening Jewel Stakes at Santa Anita. Trained by Jeff Bonde, the 3-year-old daughter of Smiling Tiger got six furlongs in 1:10.49, which was .26 of a second slower than Big Sweep’s final clocking in the Evening Jewel’s counterpart, the Echo Eddie, which was run two races earlier. Sponsored by the CTBA, the Evening Jewel is part of the lucrative Golden State Series for eligible California-bred or sired horses. A one mile state-bred allowance winner on March 6, Smiling Shirlee, who is owned by Edward Brown, Jr., Alan Klein and Phillip Lebherz, had been Cal-bred stakes place on three occasions and notched her first stakes victory today in her eighth career start. “What a race she ran,” said Smith, who was aboard for the first time today. “I thought that if she ran back... ...

Big Sweep Beats the Boys in Echo Eddie

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (May 16, 2020)–In just her second career start and the lone filly in the lineup, Big Sweep came rolling from off the pace to take Saturday’s $150,000 Echo Eddie Stakes by a head under Flavien Prat. Owned by Red Baron’s Barn, LLC and Rancho Temescal and trained by Mark Glatt, the 3-year-old daughter of Mr. Big got six furlongs in 1:10.23. Sponsored by the CTBA, the Echo Eddie is part of the lucrative Golden State Series, for eligible California-bred or sired horses. Breaking from the number seven post position in a field of eight sophomores, Big Sweep had two horses beat a half mile from home, but was on the move while fourth, two off Better Trip Nick and Rookie Mistake a quarter mile out. From there, Rookie Mistake took the lead at the furlong marker and Big Sweep was all out to collar him on the money. “She ran really well,” said Prat, who had guided Big Sweep to a 2 ¼ length... ...

Auctioneer Cris Caldwell Passes at 63

By Bloodhorse.com Cris Caldwell, notable auctioneer and loving father of two children, died May 15 after a battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 63. Born Feb. 14, 1957 in Upland, Calif. to Tom and Mary Caldwell, Caldwell started his auction career at the age of 16 at Maclin Caldwell Auction Company in Chino, Calif, selling everything from furniture to horses five days a week. In 1975 he joined the Keeneland auction ranks under his father. He would go on to sell hundreds of millions of dollars worth of horses during a 45-year tenure that concluded with the 2020 Keeneland January Horses of All Ages Sale. At home in Oregon, Caldwell was crucial to many farm and charity auctions, always giving back to the community in any way possible. Caldwell had a passion for ranching and the western way of life. That passion was instilled in his girls, Alden and Laurel, who continue his legacy as a fourth-generation rancher and budding veterinarian, respectively. An avid athlete and daredevil, Caldwell’s life was... ...

New CHRB Licensing Requirements

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (May 18, 2020) — The California Horse Racing Board Licensing Offices at Santa Anita Park, Golden Gate Fields, and Los Alamitos Race Course are now open for renewals and new owner licenses only. The Sacramento Licensing Office is still closed awaiting modifications for COVID-19 mitigation. In order to prevent introduction of new licensees to the contained backside of the tracks, new licenses (other than owners) will not be issued at this time. Exceptions to the suspension of issuing new licenses will be considered if the license is necessary for the health and safety of people and/or horses. All requests for exceptions shall be emailed to Shawn Loehr, Chief of Enforcement and Licensing (slloehr@chrb.ca.gov). Please contact one of the Licensing Offices below with any application questions. Golden Gate Fields: (916) 869-3267 GGFLicensing@chrb.ca.gov Santa Anita: (626) 574-6348 SALicensing@chrb.ca.gov Los Alamitos: (714) 820-2766 LosAlLicensing@chrb.ca.gov Sacramento: (916) 263-6000 LEMartin@chrb.ca.gov ...

Pensioned Stallion Birdonthewire Passes

MADERA, Calif. (May 16, 2020) – Madera Thoroughbreds’ pensioned stallion Birdonthewire, who sired 11 stakes winners with total progeny earnings of more than $14 million, passed away on Saturday at the age of 31. The son of Proud Birdie was a Grade I winner on the track, taking the Vosburgh Stakes at Belmont as a 4-year-old en route to career earnings of $541,752. After initially standing at Adena Springs in Florida and Canada, Birdonthewire relocated to Madera for the 2004 breeding season until he was pensioned in 2013. Birdonthewire sired multiple graded stakes winners Solid Wager and It’s a Bird. ...

Phantom Boss Returns in Echo Eddie

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (May 14, 2020) — A return to racing at Santa Anita Park on May 16 brings with it two stakes opportunities for California-breds in the $150,000 Echo Eddie Stakes and $150,000 Evening Jewel Stakes—both over six furlongs. Kicking off the afternoon races in the Echo Eddie is a field of nine 3-year-olds—six colts, two geldings, and one filly. Making his 2020 debut from the far outside post is Phantom Boss. The son of Shackleford impressed early last year at 2, winning the Bashford Manor Stakes (G3) at Churchill Downs at the Echo Eddie distance. The Jorge Periban trainee closed his freshman season with an off-the-board finish in the Aug. 30 I’m Smokin Stakes at Del Mar. Owned by Tom Beckerle, Dena Bengson, Rick Bengson, Terry Lovinger, and Amanda Navarro, Phantom Boss most recently worked May 10 when he was clocked in 1:14 2/5 for six furlongs. Drayden Van Dyke will have the call. The lone lady in the field is Red Baron’s Barn and Rancho Temescal’s Big... ...

Filly Big Sweep Faces Boys in Echo Eddie

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (May 13, 2020) — Borrowing a page from the D. Wayne Lukas trainer’s playbook, Mark Glatt will take on the boys with his talented filly Big Sweep in Saturday’s $150,000 Echo Eddie Stakes at six furlongs. Sponsored by the CTBA, the Echo Eddie is for Golden State Series eligible California-bred or sired three-year olds and has attracted a field of nine. “We nominated to both races (including the Evening Jewel) and to be honest, we looked at the noms for both of them and we just thought that maybe our best chance this time is against the boys,” said Glatt. “She’s obviously very talented and hopefully, we chose the right option.” Breaking from the rail in her debut going six furlongs here March 14, Big Sweep blasted off and enjoyed a 4 ½ length advantage turning for home en route to a 2 ¼ length win as the even money favorite. Owned by Red Baron’s Barn, LLC and Rancho Temescal, Big Sweep earned an... ...

Warren’s Showtime in Evening Jewel

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (May 13, 2020) — A solid group of 10 sophomore fillies, headed by Ben and Sally Warren’s classy homebred Warren’s Showtime, will go six furlongs in Saturday’s $150,000 Evening Jewel Stakes for eligible California-bred or sired runners. Sponsored by the CTBA, the Evening Jewel is part of the lucrative Golden State Series. A daughter of red hot sire Clubhouse Ride, out of the Grade I winning Affirmative mare Warren’s Veneda, Warren’s Showtime, who is trained by Craig Lewis, is a three-time stakes winner at one mile on turf, most recently taking the China Doll Stakes here on March 7. “It’s not my preference, but she’s been cooped-up so long and she’s just got to run,” said Lewis. “She’s much better going two turns on grass, but that said, good horses do good things.” Been Studying Her, a KMN Racing homebred filly by Fast Anna, has been idle since well beaten as the 3-1 favorite by Warren’s Showtime in the one mile turf Cal Cup... ...

County Approves Racing Restart at Santa Anita

By DRF.com ARCADIA, Calif. (May 13, 2020) — For nearly two months, there has been no racing at Santa Anita, only plenty of expectations for an opportunity to resume action amidst the coronavirus outbreak. The wait is finally over. The track is scheduled to run a nine-race program Friday, its first since March 22. Wednesday afternoon, Santa Anita officials received approval from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health to proceed with racing this weekend and through the scheduled conclusion of the winter-spring meeting on June 21. The same county health department notified Santa Anita on March 27 that the track was a nonessential business during the pandemic. Training has been allowed to continue on a regular basis, but racing was halted. :: To stay up to date, follow us on: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter When racing resumes Friday, Santa Anita will operate under some of the restrictions in place for five racing days from March 14-22 – no spectators will be permitted ontrack and a minimal number... ...

Santa Anita Releases Friday Overnight

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (May 12, 2020) — Despite the possibility that Los Angeles County may extend a current stay-at-home order for residents due to the global COVID-19 pandemic, Santa Anita Park officials remain hopeful they will be able to move forward with plans to resume racing. Santa Anita has been closed since the Los Angeles County Health Department ordered a cessation of racing March 27. The Southern California track released a May 15 overnight May 12, the same day the county’s Public Health Director Dr. Barbara Ferrer told the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors that “with all certainty” the lockdown will remain in place for the next three months in order to continue to combat the spread of COVID-19, according to a report from the Los Angeles Times. Ferrer further explained that with testing still not widely available, the best case scenario is that restrictions and social distancing directives could be eased slowly over the ensuing months. L.A. County Supervisor Kathryn Barger issued a clarification on the county’s position later Tuesday, alleging Ferrer’s... ...

Los Alamitos Derby on the Road to Ky. Derby

From Los Alamitos Publicity CYPRESS, Calif. (May 12, 2020) —The Grade III, $150,000 Los Alamitos Derby, which will be run Saturday, July 4, is among the races to be used for the extension of the “Road to the Kentucky Derby’’ announced Churchill Downs Racetrack on Tuesday. One of two graded stakes – along with the Grade II, $200,000 Great Lady M. (July 4) – to be offered during the upcoming Summer Thoroughbred Festival (June 26-July 5) at Los Alamitos, the Derby is run at 1 1/8 miles. Won a year ago by the Bob Baffert-trained Game Winner, the Los Alamitos Derby winner will receive 20 points, while the runner-up will collect eight, the third-place finisher four and the fourth-place finisher two. The Los Alamitos Derby is one of three races in California on the preliminary list leading to the 146th running of the Kentucky Derby presented by Woodford Reserve on Saturday, Sept. 5 at Churchill Downs. The other two local races are the Santa Anita Derby and the Shared Belief Stakes... ...

Golden Gate Champing at the Bit

By DRF.com ALBANY, Calif. (May 11, 2020) — Golden Gate Fields resumes racing for the first time in more than six weeks on Thursday, reviving major Thoroughbred racing in California after a spring being shut down because of the coronavirus outbreak. Golden Gate Fields has not raced since March 29, having been ordered shut by the Alameda County Public Health Officer on April 2. Santa Anita has not raced since March 22, having been ordered closed by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health on March 27. Santa Anita hopes to resume racing Friday, but as of early Monday had not announced it had gotten permission from county health officials. :: To stay up to date, follow us on: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter The tracks were closed after they were deemed nonessential businesses during the pandemic. Golden Gate Fields announced May 6 that racing would resume Thursday. “We’re back and it’s a good atmosphere,” David Duggan, track vice president and general manager, said Monday. Owners and trainers have... ...

Breeders’ Cup, TSG Donate for Mother’s Day

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (May 8, 2020) — The Breeders’ Cup, one of Thoroughbred horse racing’s most prestigious international events, today announced Blessings for the Backstretch, a charitable initiative in partnership with The Stronach Group to support mothers living and working on the backstretch at Santa Anita Park this Mother’s Day. On Sunday morning, May 10, the two organizations will hand-deliver Mother’s Day Blessings Baskets to these hardworking women in appreciation for their immeasurable contributions to the horse racing industry. Each basket will include chocolates, fresh flowers, body wash, moisturizers, nail polish and other special gifts and treats curated with moms in mind. “We are indebted to the mothers who are working day-to-day on the backstretch to support the horse racing industry through this unprecedented situation, all the while caring for their own families,” said Drew Fleming, President and CEO of Breeders’ Cup. “This Mother’s Day, we hope to express our gratitude for their hard work and add a bit of extra joy to their special day.” “Each year, and... ...

CHRB Licensing Advisory

From CHRB CYPRESS, Calif. (May 8, 2020) — The California Horse Racing Board is re-opening the Los Alamitos Race Course Licensing Office for renewal applications only. A protective shield has been installed at the Licensing Office to assist with mitigating the risk of COVID-19 for CHRB staff and the public we serve. Similar plans are in process at Golden Gate Fields, Santa Anita Park, and CHRB Headquarters in Sacramento. Updated advisories will be sent out as we re-open other locations. In order to prevent introduction of new people to the contained backside of the track, new licenses will not be issued at this time. Exceptions to the suspension of issuing new licenses will be considered if the license is necessary for the health and safety of people and/or horses. All requests for exceptions shall be emailed to Shawn Loehr, Chief of Enforcement and Licensing (slloehr@chrb.ca.gov). While the below CHRB Licensing Offices are still closed to the public, renewals may be done via email or mail. Call or email the respective... ...

McHargue Elected into Racing Hall of Fame

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (May 8, 2020) — Darrel McHargue, a jockey for 16 years until 1988, when he retired from the saddle to become a racing official – the last 30 years as a steward/Chief Steward with the California Horse Racing Board – has been elected to the National Museum of Racing Hall of Fame for his riding accomplishments. He will be inducted August 7. McHargue is best known for a brilliant 1978 campaign in which he won the Eclipse Award as champion jockey, while setting what at the time was a single-season earnings record for a jockey of $6,188,353. He won the 1975 Preakness and such other major races as the Apple Blossom Handicap, Blue Grass Stakes, Del Mar Debutante, Hollywood Derby, Hopeful Stakes, La Brea Stakes, Santa Anita Derby, Santa Anita Handicap, Santa Margarita Stakes, Strub Stakes, and Swaps Stakes. He also rode in Europe in the early 1980s. He won 2,553 races in North America. McHargue became a CHRB steward in 1990. In recognition of his... ...

CHRB Meeting Advisory

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (May 7, 2020) — The meeting of the California Horse Racing Board scheduled for May 21 has been canceled. The next meeting of the Board is scheduled for June 11 via teleconference. The agenda for the June 11 meeting, including the starting time and call-in procedures, will be announced at least 10 days beforehand. ...

Golden Gate Resumes Racing on May 14

By Bloodhorse.com ALBANY, Calif. (May 6, 2020) — After live racing was halted at Golden Gate Fields on April 2 because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Northern California track has been given provisional approval by the Alameda County Health Department to resume racing May 14. There have been no known cases of COVID-19 at Golden Gate Fields, and the track has been closed to the general public and to all but essential personnel since March 12. Racing will be conducted under strict protocols and without spectators “to protect the health, safety, and welfare of every person and every horse in the Golden Gate Fields community,” according to a May 6 news release from the track. “Finally, we have something to smile about,” Golden Gate-based trainer Blaine Wright said. The protocols are still being finalized with county officials and will be released in the coming days, as will the condition book. “It was a lot of work, but we got there in the end,” said David Duggan, Golden Gate’s general manager and vice president.... ...

Jockey Club Limits Stallion Breedings

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (May 7, 2020) — The Jockey Club board of stewards today announced that it has adopted a final rule limiting the annual breeding of individual stallions. The rule reflects The Jockey Club’s goal to preserve the health of the Thoroughbred breed for the long term and will apply prospectively to stallions born in 2020 or later. Effective today, The Jockey Club’s Principal Rules and Requirements of the American Studbook are amended by adding the following italicized language to the text of Rule 14C: C. Based on the information on a completed Report of Mares Bred form, The Jockey Club will forward to the stallion owner, lessee or authorized agent a preprinted Service Certificate for each broodmare bred, including the name of the stallion, the name of the broodmare, the name of the dam of the broodmare, and the date of the last cover. The total number of broodmares bred per individual stallion whose year of birth is 2020 or thereafter shall not exceed 140... ...

Farms May Apply for Disaster Loans

From NTRA WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 5, 2020) — The Small Business Administration (SBA) has reopened the application process for the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL)-COVID-19 related assistance program after a short delay. Farms with fewer than 500 employees whose primary activity is breeding horses may now apply for these loans offered to businesses that have suffered economic hardship as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. “This is welcome news and a terrific opportunity for horse farms that are currently facing a number of daunting challenges,” said NTRA President and CEO Alex Waldrop. “The NTRA encourages quick action by those interested, as the loans are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.” Click here to access the EIDL application. The NTRA lobbied the SBA for several weeks after farms were excluded from earlier federal emergency aid packages. On April 24, President Trump signed into law another package providing relief to small businesses, including farms and ranches. NTRA partner Dean Dorton, one of the nation’s leading experts on equine... ...

CHRB Tightens Ban on Bisphosphonates

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (May 4, 2020) — New California Horse Racing Board Rule 1867.1, which becomes effective July 1, prohibits the administration of bisphosphonates to any horse within a facility regulated by the CHRB and also prohibits any horse from entering the grounds that has been administered the drug within six months. This means that any horse administered bisphosphonates since January 1, 2020, will not be permitted within any CHRB-regulated facility (racetracks and training centers) within a six-month period of such administration. Bisphosphonates inhibit the normal bone repair process, which is potentially dangerous for young horses racing and in training. Additional information on bisphosphonate use in race horses is available on the CHRB website under both the Racing Safety and Veterinary sections. ...

Square Eddie Pensioned; Pavel Retired to Stud

By Bloodhorse.com BONSALL, Calif. (May 1, 2020) — Reddam Racing’s grade 1 winner Pavel was retired May 1 and will stand at Ocean Breeze Ranch in Bonsall, Calif. The owners also announced that their grade 1 winner Square Eddie has been pensioned from stud duty. Trained by Doug O’Neill, Pavel won the 2018 Stephen Foster Handicap (G1) at Churchill Downs. The son of Creative Cause won ﬁrst time out going 6 1/2 furlongs in 1:15.20 at Santa Anita Park as a 3-year-old. He went on to win the Smarty Jones Stakes (G3) at Parx Racing and then placed third in the Jockey Club Gold Cup Stakes (G1) at Belmont Park, beaten 1 3/4 lengths by winner Diversify. At 4, Pavel finished fourth to Thunder Snow in the Dubai World Cup Sponsored By Emirates Airline (G1) before winning the Stephen Foster. In his next start, he was the runner-up in the $1 Million TVG Paciﬁc Classic Stakes (G1) at Del Mar. At 5, he again finished fourth to Thunder Snow in the Dubai World Cup, beaten by three lengths. He... ...

Condition Book Includes Two Cal-bred Stakes

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 30, 2020) — Santa Anita Park officials, hopeful that racing could resume there behind closed doors by May 15 if a Safer at Home order is lifted in Los Angeles County, have released the track’s condition book and stakes schedule for the second half of May. In a letter to industry representatives distributed April 29, Aidan Butler, the acting executive director of California operations for The Stronach Group, which operates Santa Anita Park and Golden Gate Fields in the state, wrote that the release of the condition book was necessary to allow horsemen to prepare for the possible resumption of racing, though he emphasized a May 15 start date was not assured. He categorized the release of the condition book as a contingency plan pending local health department approval. Racing has not taken place at Santa Anita since March 22. The new condition book lists a number of stakes, beginning with the $150,000 Echo Eddie Stakes for 3-year-olds and the $150,000 Evening Jewel Stakes for... ...

Industry Leader R.D. Hubbard Passes at 84

By Bloodhorse.com PALM DESERT, Calif. (Apr. 30, 2020) — Influential racetrack owner and successful owner/breeder Randall Dee “R.D.” Hubbard died April 29 at 84, according to the American Quarter Horse Association. Born in Smith Center, Kan., in 1935, Hubbard was the youngest of eight children. He worked in his family’s icehouse and attended Butler Community College in El Dorado, Kan. He became a teacher after college but soon moved on to become a glass salesman in 1959. Nine years later, he became president of Safelite Auto Glass and by 1978 had formed his company, AFG Industries, which he helped grow into the second-largest glass manufacturer in North America and took private in a $1.1 billion buyout in 1988. During his first years in the glass business in Kansas, Hubbard and his boss, Art Lankin, became interested in Quarter Horses. They started with show horses but quickly realized racing was a more lucrative venture. In his own name, he has bred the earners of more than $4.7 million, and owned, bred... ...

NTRA Summary of Federal Benefits

From NTRA WASHINGTON, D.C. (Apr. 28, 2020) — All businesses are feeling economic hardship right now, and horse owners are no exception. Congress and the Trump Administration have provided several mechanisms to keep businesses afloat and provide some financial relief. Every business and every financial situation is unique, however, so it is critical that you have a conversation with your tax or financial advisor to ensure that you are accessing all the benefits to which you are entitled under the new law. 1. Tax Benefits. Owners may be entitled to some new tax benefits that allow them to file amended returns for prior years and get cash in the form of tax refunds. a. Net operating losses can now be carried back for up to 5 years. This applies to C corporations and individuals who generate net business losses. The IRS is currently accepting faxed refund requests in order to expedite these cash refunds. b. The excess business loss limitation for individuals, trusts and estates is now deferred until 2021. Those who... ...

TCA to Auction Halters of Champions

From TCA LEXINGTON, Ky. (Apr. 28, 2020) – Thoroughbred Charities of America (TCA) will host an online auction of halters worn by Triple Crown and Kentucky Derby winners during the upcoming virtual “Kentucky Derby: Triple Crown Showdown”. The halter auction is set to open on Friday, May 1 at 9 a.m. and will conclude on Saturday, May 2 at 9 p.m. EST. All proceeds will benefit TCA. “As the 13 Triple Crown winners face off in the virtual running of the Derby, we are excited to offer halters worn by the only two living Triple Crown winners American Pharoah and Justify, as well as past Derby winners,” said Erin Crady executive director of TCA. “Although the traditional first Saturday in May looks a little different this year, we are hopeful that offering an online auction during the Kentucky Derby at Home will provide an opportunity to raise money for distribution to TCA’s charities, many of which have had to cancel fundraisers as a result of the Corona virus.” In addition... ...

CHRB Meeting Summary

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Apr. 24, 2020) — The California Horse Racing Board conducted a meeting by teleconference on Wednesday, April 22. The public participated by dialing into the teleconference and/or listening through the audio webcast link on the CHRB website. Dr. Gregory Ferraro chaired the meeting, joined by Vice Chair Oscar Gonzales and Commissioners Dennis Alfieri, Damascus Castellanos, Wendy Mitchell, and Alex Solis. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link. In brief: Newly appointed Executive Director Scott Chaney said in his opening remarks, “Thank you Chairman Ferraro and thank you to the entire Board for the confidence you have placed in me as to my appointment. I knew this would be a challenging job, and the last six weeks (during the COVID-19 health crisis) even more so. I will do my best to validate your trust.” The Board approved the license application for the Los Alamitos Horse Racing Association (LAHRA) to conduct a thoroughbred meet at Los Alamitos... ...

Farms, Tracks Eligible for Federal Relief

From NTRA LEXINGTON, Ky. (Apr. 24, 2020) — President Trump signed into law today an emergency aid package providing additional relief to small businesses and health care facilities, and the Small Business Administration released updated guidance that will assist the horse industry. The new law provides $310 billion to replenish the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) for small businesses, which was oversubscribed. The additional appropriation will allow financial institutions to make additional forgivable loans to eligible small businesses in order to keep employees on the payroll for eight weeks. The new law also includes $60 billion in loans and grants for a separate Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, and makes farms and ranches eligible for the loans. Farms with 500 or fewer employees whose primary activity is breeding horses are now eligible to apply. Separately, the Treasury and SBA released updated interim final rules that contain a key clarification that will provide essential relief to racetracks and other businesses who rely on gambling income and otherwise qualify for an SBA loan.... ...

CHRB License Advisory

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Apr. 23, 2020) — The California Horse Racing Board (CHRB or Board) has partially suspended fingerprinting requirements for temporary occupational licenses pursuant to its authority under CHRB Rule 1406. Effective immediately, the CHRB’s partial suspension of CHRB Rule 1488, Temporary Occupational License, extends from 45 calendar days to 120 calendar days the window in which those with a temporary occupation license must comply with fingerprinting requirements. This extension is necessary due to the current closure of CHRB licensing offices due to the State’s efforts to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. The partial suspension of Rule 1488 will end 60 days after the CHRB licensing offices reopen to the public. As a reminder, the CHRB is not processing in-person license applications and/or renewals during this closure of CHRB licensing offices. Renewals may be done via email, mail, or phone. Call one of the numbers below for details: Golden Gate Fields: (510) 559-7437 Los Alamitos: (714) 820-2760 Santa Anita: (626) 574-6348 Cal Expo: (916) 263-6000 Expired licenses should... ...

Los Alamitos Names Race for Soi Phet

From Los Alamitos Publicity CYPRESS, Calif. (Apr. 23, 2020) – Los Alamitos has renamed the Bertrando Stakes as the $100,000 Soi Phet for California-breds, which will be run on Saturday, June 27, during the Summer Thoroughbred Festival that runs from June 26 through July 5. In addition to the Soi Phet, Los Alamitos will hold the $200,000 Grade II Great Lady M. for fillies and mares and the $100,000 Grade III Los Alamitos Derby, both on Saturday, July 4. The Soi Phet honors the Cal-bred gelding who won five stakes at Los Alamitos prior to his retirement in the summer of 2019. The son of Tizbud, who earned nearly $1 million after being claimed for $16,000 by trainer Leonard Powell for a partnership May 23, 2013 at Hollywood Park, won the race now named for him in 2014 and 2018. His other Los Alamitos stakes wins came in the 2014 Los Alamitos Mile and the E.B. Johnston in 2016 and 2017. Soi Phet, who now resides at Old Friends Farm in... ...

Barton Thoroughbreds Managing COVID-19

By Bloodhorse.com This is the second in a series of Q&A sessions with farm managers and general managers regarding how they are handling their Thoroughbred operation amid the COVID-19 pandemic. SANTA YNEZ, Calif. (Apr. 21, 2020) — Barton Thoroughbreds, a 200-acre property located in the Santa Ynez Valley in California, opened in August 2017. The farm is involved in breeding, foaling, boarding, lay-ups, and yearling sales prep. It stands five stallions: Champ Pegasus , Cat Burglar, Misremembered , Dads Caps, and Tiz a Minister . BloodHorse associate editor Byron King spoke with farm manager Kevin Dickson about how the farm has been dealing with COVID-19 and the virus-related suspension of racing at Santa Anita Park and Golden Gate Fields. Dickson, who studied equine science at Colorado State University, was previously the manager of Vessels Stallion Farm for 21 years and Ocean Breeze Ranch for two years. BloodHorse: How has COVID-19 impacted Barton Thoroughbreds, both directly and indirectly? Kevin Dickson: The biggest impact I think we’ve felt is business has been a bit slower... ...

Auerbachs Lose Mare Chi Chi Nette

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 21, 2020) — Madeline Auerbach lost her mare Chi Chi Nette April 20 to the infirmities of old age. The daughter of Ole’ was one of the broodmare prospects originally acquired by the California owner/breeder 17 years ago to support a young stallion named Unusual Heat. Chi Chi Nette did her part to prove the then-young sire’s ability by producing seven winners from seven starters, all by Unusual Heat, which included grade 2 and multiple stakes winner Majestic Heat and the grade 1-placed multiple stakes winner Mensa Heat. “We had a base group of mares that we started with Unusual Heat, and then when we saw how good his foals were, we acquired a second group and ‘Chi Chi’ was in that group,” recalled Harris Auerbach, Madeline Auerbach’s son and former managing partner of the Unusual Heat Syndicate. “She was a big mare, just under 17 hands, but it was hard to tell because all the parts fit so well. She was a big, correct mare,... ...

California-bred Wins Jockey Club TIP Award

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Apr. 21, 2020) – Raising Havoc, a California-bred thoroughbred owned and ridden by Hannah Rohr, won the California-bred Performance Award presented by The Jockey Club’s Thoroughbred Incentive Program that encourages the retraining of Thoroughbreds into other disciplines. Raising Havoc, shown as Jaeger Meister, is by Via Lombardia, out of the mare Wreak Havoc and was bred by Adrian Gonzalez. The performance awards recognize Thoroughbreds accumulating the most points at all horse shows in each of the T.I.P. award categories and divisions throughout the year. ...

CHRB Names Scott Chaney Executive Director

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Apr. 16, 2020) — Scott Chaney has been appointed Executive Director of the California Horse Racing Board, Chairman Greg Ferraro announced Thursday. Chaney, who assumed the post Thursday, replaces Rick Baedeker, who retired on March 31. Chaney has been a steward in California since 2005, serving initially on the Southern California thoroughbred circuit and most recently at the Los Alamitos quarter horse meet. A graduate of Dartmouth, cum laude, Chaney went on to graduate with honors from the University of Southern California Law School. He remains a member of the State Bar of California. Chaney grew up in Maryland, where his parents owned a few horses running at the Maryland tracks. With that background, and prior to becoming a steward, he groomed horses during summer breaks from law school, and then after graduation he became an assistant to trainer Darrell Vienna and traveled the country and world with horses. CHRB commissioners and executives recognized Chaney’s talents early on when they assigned him to complicated legal cases,... ...

CHRB Meeting Advisory

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Apr. 16, 2020) — The California Horse Racing Board will conduct a teleconference meeting on Wednesday, April 22, beginning at 9:30 a.m. Consistent with Governor Gavin Newsom’s Executive Order N-29-20, the meeting will be teleconference only and no physical location will be provided. The public is encouraged to participate in either of two ways: The webcast audio link on the CHRB website will continue to provide a way for the public to listen to the meeting. Furthermore, those wishing to speak during the meeting may dial 888-392-4564 and enter 6896291# when prompted. The operator will provide instructions to those wishing to speak on any agenda item. Those providing public comment on individual agenda items will be limited to two minutes. Note that for agenda item #12, Public Comment, no further comments will be permitted after 30 minutes. The agenda and package of materials for this teleconference meeting are available on the CHRB website. In compliance with authorities in Alameda, Los Angeles, and Sacramento Counties, all racing... ...

Northern Calif. Yearling Sale Set for August 11

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 16, 2020) — The 2020 Northern California Yearling and Horses of Racing Age Sale will be held on Tuesday, August 11, at noon at the Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton. For further information, contact: Loretta Veiga – (626) 445-7800 Ext 227 or email: loretta@ctba.com Christy Chapman – (626) 445-7800 Ext 247 or email: christy@ctba.com ...

Covid-19 Resources for Equestrian Venues

From CDFA SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Apr. 14, 2020) — This guidance is based on what is currently known about the transmission and severity of COVID-19. The California Department of Food and Agriculture, in consultation with the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), will update this guidance as needed and as additional information becomes available. Local environmental health and public health agencies may have additional guidance and/or requirements regarding these operations in their jurisdiction. Background According to the Governor’s Order, essential critical infrastructure workers (https://covid19.ca.gov/img/EssentialCriticalInfrastructureWorkers.pdf ) include those in animal agriculture. Individuals providing care and exercise to ensure the health of and welfare of equines in California are essential workers. Equestrian facilities must prepare for possible impacts of COVID-19 and take precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19. We are gaining more understanding of COVID-19’s epidemiology, clinical course, immunogenicity, and other factors as time progresses, and the situation is changing daily. Best Practices Guidelines for Equestrian Facilities It is necessary to act in a manner that incorporates Governor Newsom’s Executive Orders to... ...

Charles Fipke Waives Jersey Town Stud Fee

By Bloodhorse.com Owner/breeder Charles Fipke will be waiving the 2020 breeding fees on all his stallions in order to provide some relief to small breeders that could be particularly hard-hit by the economic downturn from the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, according to longtime consultant Sid Fernando. “What can I say? Small breeders will especially be affected by the economic conditions, and they are the backbone of this industry,” Fipke said in statement published on Twitter April 13 by Fernando. “None of my stallions stand for more than $5,000, and they are primarily supported by small breeders. Because I own my stallions outright and don’t have shareholder responsibilities, I am able to do this, with the support of the farms where they stand. I’m passionate about this game and will continue to support my stallions, and I’d like to show my appreciation for outside breeders who do so as well in these trying times.” Fipke stands seven stallions in the United States and Canada. At Darby Dan Farm near Lexington, he stands... ...

Shutdown Hitting Backstretch Workers Hard

From OCRegister.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 9, 2020) — More than 750 backstretch workers at Santa Anita racetrack now live and work in isolation, largely cut off from the outside world and increasingly from each other to prevent the spread of COVID-19. They sleep in worn dormitories, sometimes in pairs, tucked among the racetrack’s barns. New restrictions bar visitors, and even horse owners, from entering the historic grounds at the foot of the San Gabriel Mountains. And though nothing prevents the workers from leaving the 320-acre Arcadia park, many do not have cars or licenses. Even if they did, there’s really nowhere to go amid the pandemic. There is a sense of anxiety in the community, according to those who work and live at Santa Anita. Like everywhere else, their fears are primarily about the coronavirus, though there’s increasing worry about the future of their jobs as well. Rafael Gonzalez, a 61-year-old groom, is burying himself in his work. He begins tending to the horses shortly before 4 a.m. on most... ...

CHRB License Renewal Advisory

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Apr. 6, 2020) — In support of the State’s efforts to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, the California Horse Racing Board has closed all CHRB licensing offices until further notice. For safety reasons, and with apologies for any inconveniences this action might cause, the CHRB has determined this closure is in the best interests of CHRB employees and the public. During this closure, the CHRB will not process in-person license applications and/or renewals. Renewals may be done via email, mail, or phone. Call one of the numbers below for details: Golden Gate Fields: (510) 559-7437 Los Alamitos: (714) 820-2760 Santa Anita: (626) 574-6348 Cal Expo: (916) 263-6000 The issuance of new licenses will not occur until the Licensing Offices are re-opened. Exceptions to the temporary suspension of issuing licenses will be considered if the license is absolutely necessary for the health and safety of people and/or horses. All requests for exceptions shall be sent to the Chief of Enforcement and Licensing, Shawn Loehr, at slloehr@chrb.ca.gov for... ...

NorCal Sale Grad Minister of Soul Entered

CLAREMORE, Okla. (Apr. 2, 2020) – Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Minister of Soul and fellow California-bred Chatterman are entered in Tuesday’s $50,000 Highland Ice Stakes at Will Rogers Downs. 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. The $16,000 purchase at the Northern California Yearling Sale has eight wins in 22 starts, earnings of $215,176 and is coming off a Feb. 23 optional claiming win. Chatterman is by Dixie Chatter, out of the Afternoon Deelites mare Cappuccino Springs, was bred by Robert & Mary Ellen McKee, is owned by George Sharp and trained by Kerri Raven. He has 10 wins in 24 starts, earnings of $94,255 and is coming off consecutive starter’s allowance wins. ...

Industry Advised to Apply for Federal Aid

By Bloodhorse.com WASHINGTON, D.C. (Apr. 1, 2020) — A tax expert encouraged the many horse racing industry businesses, farms, small businesses, nonprofits, and self-employed people affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and economic shutdown that followed to apply for aid packages and loans made available by the federal government. During an 80-minute interactive teleconference April 1 organized by the National Thoroughbred Racing Association, Dean Dorton director of tax services and equine team leader Jen Shah offered advice on getting the most out of recent federal legislation, including the $2 trillion CARES Act. The conference attracted interest from more than 500 people in the industry. Though many people will consult with their own advisers first, Shah encouraged them to take action before some of the programs dry up. “I’m encouraging people who think they may qualify to apply, sooner rather than later, for these provisions,” Shah said. Significant aid for businesses and the self-employed is being made through United States Small Business Administration Loans through the CARES Act and two bills passed in... ...

TCA Funding Backstretch, Aftercare Aid

From TCA LEXINGTON, Ky. (Mar. 31, 2020) – Thoroughbred Charities of America’s Horses First Fund is providing funding to backstretch and aftercare organizations working to support the Thoroughbred community amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Established in 2016 by LNJ Foxwoods, the Horses First Fund assists Thoroughbreds and their caretakers in need of emergency aid due to large scale neglect, natural disaster, or other catastrophe. The Backstretch Employee Service Team (BEST) will receive funding to support their on-site medical clinic at Belmont Park. The Sam Houston Race Park Chaplaincy will receive an emergency grant to provide meal services for backstretch workers at the now closed racetrack. The Horses First Fund will also provide grants to several aftercare organizations throughout the U.S. that have taken in additional Thoroughbreds due to the pandemic or have additional needs. It is expected that more funding will be distributed as further emergency needs are identified. Thoroughbred industry related nonprofit organizations interested in applying for an emergency grant may contact Erin Crady at ecrady@tca.org. TCA has worked to... ...

Santa Anita Racing Update from TOC

From Thoroughbred Owners of California ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 29, 2020) — Per our email Friday, we continue to work with Stronach Group and CTT to persuade the LA County Department of Health to rescind its order prohibiting live racing at Santa Anita. Many of you have inquired about who you can contact to support these efforts. The Department of Health reports to the LA Board of Supervisors, and the Supervisor and current Chair for the Fifth District which includes Arcadia is Kathryn Barger. You can contact her at Kathryn@bos.lacounty.gov. We believe emails will be most effective if they are concise and respectful. The major themes Stronach Group, TOC and CTT have been emphasizing are: Allowing the continuation of live racing does not present a health risk to the 1000 + workers on the backstretch who live in dormitories at the track and must be at the track every day to support live training of 1700 horses every day. Daily training for these horses has already been determined to... ...

CHRB Meetings Summary

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Mar. 28, 2020) — The California Horse Racing Board conducted two separate meetings on Thursday, March 26, by teleconference. The public participated by dialing into the teleconference and/or listening through the audio webcast link on the CHRB website. Both meetings were chaired by Dr. Gregory Ferraro, joined for the first meeting by Vice Chair Oscar Gonzales and Commissioners Dennis Alfieri, Damascus Castellanos, Wendy Mitchell, and Alex Solis. Commissioner Mitchell did not participate in the second meeting. The audios of these two meetings are available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link. In brief, during the first, regular meeting: Chairman Ferraro opened the meeting by welcoming Commissioner Castellanos to his initial meeting as a member of the Board. Governor Gavin Newsom appointed Commissioner Castellanos on March 10. In two separate but related actions involving both emergency and permanent rules, the Board voted to re-establish the 48-hour restriction on the administration of medications or other substances to horses entered to race unless otherwise authorized by regulation.... ...

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