Rock Me Baby Wins Albany

Jun 14, 2015 Posted by CTBA In News

From Golden Gate Publicity ALBANY, Calif. (June 13, 2015) — California-bred Rock Me Baby, making his first start since Oct. 4, rallied from last-to-first under veteran jockey Corey Nakatani to score a one-length victory in the $61,065 Albany Stakes at Golden Gate Fields Saturday. Trained by Craig Dollase, Rock Me Baby won the five-furlong turf race for 3-year-olds and up in 57.76 seconds and paid $6.00 as the second choice in the betting. Streamside placed second by head over Serbian Syclone, who took third by a neck over 8-5 favorite Alert Bay. The victory was the seventh in 19 starts for Rock Me Baby, who earned his second career stakes win. “This horse has a lot of talent,” said Nakatani of Rock Me Baby, who was racing five furlongs for the first time. “He’s a route horse and I didn’t want to get his momentum stopped once I got him started. I was able to weave my way to the outside and let... ...

‘Chrome’s Sister in Solid Debut

By Bloodhorse.com ALBANY, Calif. (June 13, 2015) — Hope’s Love, a full sister to 2014 Horse of the Year California Chrome, made a strong debut June 13 at Golden Gate Fields when running a close second in a 4 1/2-furlong maiden special weight race for 2-year-old fillies (VIDEO). The Lucky Pulpit daughter, bred by owners Perry Martin and Steve Coburn out of the Not For Love mare Love the Chase, broke awkwardly in the fourth race after being fractious in the gate and was sixth inside despite being hustled by jockey Ricardo Gonzalez early on. While eventual winner Ourprincessmelanie sped straight immediately to the front to set the pace, she was almost collared by Hope’s Love in the final strides, as the chestnut filly accelerated with an eye-catching burst once swung out from the rail to close down the stretch. Final time was :52.75 on the all-weather track after Ourprincessmelanie went a quarter in :22.09 and set up a :46.15 half. Hope’s Love finished second by a neck in the nine-horse field, bringing $3.40 and $3 as the... ...

Waldrop to Appear at Tax Hearing

From NTRA WASHINGTON, D.C. (June 13, 2015) — Alex Waldrop, President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA), is scheduled to appear before a June 17 Hearing conducted by the United States Treasury Department and the Internal Revenue Service to address proposed changes to regulations related to withholding and reporting of winning pari-mutuel wagers. Waldrop’s appearance on behalf of NTRA members and the Thoroughbred racing industry is part of the NTRA’s on-going effort to modernize current IRS regulations relating to withholding and reporting. The NTRA’s proposed changes would clarify withholding and reporting rules by redefining the “amount of the wager” to include all of a bettor’s investment into a single pari-mutuel pool, and not simply the base amount of the winning combination. The NTRA’s proposed modernization would directly benefit pari-mutuel customers by reducing burdensome tax obligations while also lessening racing’s competitive disadvantage against other forms of gaming that are not subject to the same aggressive tax treatment. The hearing follows the June 2 conclusion of a... ...

Harlington’s Rose Enters Desert Stormer

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 11, 2015) – Graded winner Harlington’s Rose is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $75,000 Desert Stormer Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita. Harlington’s Rose is by Harlington, out of the Orientate mare A Rose for You, was bred by Y-Lo Racing Stables, is owned by Halasz, Johnson, Newhart, Miller et al and is trained by Steve Knapp. She has four wins in 22 starts, earnings of $374,040 and is coming off a fifth in the May 23 Spring Fever. ...

‘Chrome Works for Ascot Debut

By Paulick Report ASCOT, Great Britain (June 11, 2015) — Horse of the Year California Chrome worked out under jockey William Buick Thursday morning at Newmarket ahead of his upcoming tilt in the Group 1 Prince of Wales’s Stakes June 17 at Royal Ascot. According to a report in the Racing Post, the California-bred worked out as his U.S. connections looked on. Trainer Art Sherman and co-owner Steve Coburn arrived in England earlier this week. California Chrome will likely be a big price in the 10-furlong contest, with many bookmakers listing the colt at 10-1 odds. A field of 10 or 11 is expected for the Prince of Wales’s, with such top challengers such as The Grey Gatsby, Free Eagle, and Western Hymn expected to run. Co-owner Coburn is looking forward to the Prince of Wales’s and racing at Royal Ascot, which he hopes includes meeting the Queen. “I understand the Queen’s a Chromie and I’m looking forward to meeting her, although I’ll have to get a top hat instead of this... ...

Warren’s Veneda Enters Adoration

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 10, 2015) – Grade I winner Warren’s Veneda and fellow California-breds My Monet and Wild in the Saddle are entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Grade III Adoration Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita. Warren’s Veneda is by Affirmative, out of the Flying Continental mare More Cal Bread, was bred by owner Benjamin Warren and is trained by Craig Lewis. She has eight wins in 23 starts, earnings of $863,612 and is coming off a third in the May 9 Vanity. She was fourth in this race last year. My Monet is by Decarchy, out of the Lord Avie mare Madam, was bred by Ridgeley Farm, is owned by KM Racing and is trained by Ricky Agarie. She has five wins in 13 starts, earnings of $205,348 and is coming off a third in the May 23 Fran’s Valentine. Wild in the Saddle is by Silic, out of the Wild Deputy mare Local Law, was bred by Dinesh Maniar, is owned by Nadine Anderson and Cheyenne Ortiz... ...

Alert Bay Returns in Albany Stakes

ALBANY, Calif. (June 10, 2015) – Multiple graded winning California-bred Alert Bay risks a five-race win streak when he returns from a nearly five-month break in Saturday’s $50,000 Albany Stakes. Alert Bay is by City Zip, out of the Dushyantor mare Hickory, was bred by Thomas Bell and Ross McLeod, is owned by Peter Redekop and trained by Blaine Wright. He has eight wins in 14 starts, earnings of $754,707 and last ran and won the Jan. 24 California Cup Turf Classic. Slycy is by Crafty C. T., out of the Comic Strip mare Lucy’s Wild Again, was bred by Windfall Farms and is owned by trainer Matthew Troy. He has 10 wins in 35 starts, earnings of $157,923 and has a four race win streak. Rock Me Baby is by Rock Hard Ten, out of the Tale of the Cat mare Barbara Orr, was bred by Mercedes Stable, is owned by West Point Thoroughbreds and trained by Craig Dollase. He has six wins in 18 starts, earnings of $424,052... ...

CHRB Amends Whip Rule

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (June 10, 2015) – The California Horse Racing Board has instituted Rule 1688 in the Code of Regulations regarding the use of whips. The rule, effective July 1, 2015, reads as follows: 1688. Use of Whips Riding Crop. (a) In all races where a jockey will not ride with a whip riding crop, an announcement shall be made over the public address system of such fact. (b) Although the use of a whip riding crop is not required, any jockey who uses a whip riding crop during a race is prohibited from whipping using a riding crop on a horse: (1) on the head, flanks, or on any parts of its body other than the shoulders or hind quarters; (2) during the post parade except when necessary to control the horse; (3) excessively or brutally causing welts or breaks in the skin; (4) when the horse is clearly out of the race or has obtained its maximum placing; or (5) persistently even though the horse is... ...

Time for a Memory at Northlands

EDMONTON, Alberta (June 9, 2015) – Time for a Memory is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $50,000 John Patrick Handicap for fillies and mares at Northlands Park. Time for a Memory is by Time to Get Even, out of the Rio Verde mare Making Memories, was bred by Terry Lovingier, is owned by Elevated Bloodstock and trained by Tim Rycroft. She has eight wins in 22 starts, earnings of $89,088 and is coming off an eighth in the May 16 Wild Rose. ...

Bafferts Donate to CARMA

From CARMA ARCADIA, Calif. (June 9, 2015) — Bob and Jill Baffert announced major donations to four charities that care for racing’s retired athletes. Following American Pharoah’s historic victory in the Belmont Stakes and becoming the first Triple Crown winner in 37 years, the Bafferts said donations would be given to CARMA, Old Friends, TAA, and PDJF. “Jill and I are blessed and honored to be in a position to be able to donate a portion of my earnings to these four special charities whose work is vital to our industry,” said Bob Baffert. “We hope these contributions will go a long way toward supporting and bringing awareness to the very important work these non-profit organizations do in caring for our human and equine athletes.” “I spoke to both Bob and Jill before the race and they told me of their plans to shine a very bright spotlight on horse retirement,” said Madeline Auerbach, CARMA’s Founder and Past President. “We are very grateful to Bob and Jill for making such... ...

Gimme Da Lute

Gimme Da Lute wins $100,000 Grade III Affirmed Stakes. ...

CTBA Streamlines Registration Process

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 8, 2015) – The California Thoroughbred Breeders Association is launching a streamlined registration process that eliminates the need to send the original Jockey Club Certificate to the CTBA to complete the Cal-bred or Cal-Sired registration. Beginning immediately, once the Cal-bred or Cal-Sired application and fee are submitted to the CTBA, and a certificate has been issued by The Jockey Club, the CTBA will be notified by the Jockey Club and will send to the person or farm submitting the application a sticker to be affixed to the Jockey Club Certificate verifying the Cal-bred or Cal-Sired registration. The sticker will be similar to ones used for annual vehicle registration by the Department of Motor Vehicles. Certificates that were already processed by the CTBA and returned to applicants will not need or receive a sticker. For further information, contact Mary Ellen at CTBA, 626-445-7800, ext. 236 or Dawn Gerber, ext. 237. ...

Gimme Da Graded Win

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (June 7, 2015)–Bob Baffert’s Gimme Da Lute returned to Santa Anita and responded with a half length upset win in Sunday’s Grade III, $100,000 Affirmed Stakes. Ridden by Martin Garcia, the California-bred colt by Midnight Lute outdueled favored Prospect Park through the lane en route to getting a mile and a sixteenth in 1:41.40. A disappointing third as the favorite in the six furlong Chick Lang Stakes at Pimlico May 16, Gimme Da Lute seemed to appreciate a return to familiar environs. “He’s a tough little horse,” said Baffert assistant Mike Marlow. “I think coming back to his home track helped a lot and short fields never hurt either.” The second choice in a field of four three year olds at 7-2, Gimme Da Lute paid $9.20 and $3.20 (no show wagering). Owned by his breeders, Mike Pegram Karl Watson and Paul Weitman, all three of Gimme Da Lute’s wins have come at The Great Race Place. His overall mark now stands at 6-3-1-2... ...

Grace Upon Grace Gets First Winner

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 7, 2015) – California stallion Grace Upon Grace was represented by his first winner on Sunday when London Legacy won the first race at Santa Anita. London Legacy is a 3-year-old out of the Kelly Kip mare Passionate Kip, was bred by Terry Lovingier and is owned by Templeton Horses, Patsy London and Lovingier and was trained by Gary Sherlock. London Legacy ran the five furlongs in 1:02.64 and won by 8 ½ lengths as the 9-5 favorite. ...

Patriots Rule

Patriots Rule wins $100,000 Crystal Water Stakes. ...

Patriots Rule Wins Crystal Water

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (June 6, 2015)–Allowed to settle into last position out of the gate, longshot Patriots Rule, with Fernando Perez aloft, began to rally wide into the far turn and sustained a five-wide charge through the lane to take Saturday’s $100,000 Crystal Water Stakes for Golden State Series eligibles at Santa Anita by 1 ¼ lengths. Trained by Robertino Diodoro, the 4-year-old gelding by Tribal Rule got one mile on turf in 1:36.83. “The turf is a little wet today, he didn’t handle it great at first,” said Perez. “He likes to close and he finishes well though, so I wasn’t worried. He doesn’t like to be inside. In his last race, he was on the inside and was fighting the whole time, but today I had a really good trip and he fired.” Off at 8-1 in a field of seven California-bred or sired horses three and up, Patriots Rule paid $19.00, $6.80 and $4.40. Owned by Charles Garvey, Patriots Rule picked up $60,000 for... ...

Buick to Ride California Chrome

By Bloodhorse.com ASCOT, Great Britain (June 7, 2015) — William Buick is to ride U.S. Horse of the Year California Chrome in the Prince of Wales’s Stakes (Eng-I) June 17 at Royal Ascot, Racing Post reports. While Frankie Dettori rode the Lucky Pulpit in a racecourse gallop last week at Ascot, he will have the mount on trainer John Gosden’s English/French group winner Western Hymn in the Prince of Wales’s. “They’ve asked me to find out if (Buick) can ride him and as far as I know he can, and all being well William rides,” said trainer Rae Guest, who is overseeing the California-bred at his yard in Newmarket. “They (California Chrome’s connections) wanted Frankie, but as he can’t ride they wanted another top European jockey. Buick is a retained jockey for Godolphin and was aboard Prince Bishopwhen he won the March 28 Dubai World Cup (UAE-I), a race in which California Chrome was the runner-up before shipping to England “They’re very happy with him and he’ll be available, which is the main thing,” Guest said. California Chrome was... ...

Mark and Daryle Ann Giardino

By Emily Shields On a weekday afternoon when they have a horse running, Daryle Ann Giardino’s shouts of encouragement can be heard across the mostly empty racetrack while her husband, Mark, looks on, bemused. The scene depicts two of the Giardinos’ great passions: a love of their horses and their voracious desire to fill the seats with racing fans. “The horse racing industry was at one time on top of the world,” said Mark, “and it’s like they kicked the can down the steps from the ninth floor. Now racing is in the basement, and they don’t know how to get it back up to the ninth floor.” The Giardinos know just how thrilling horse racing can be because their homebred filly Home Journey has earned $279,920 and recently won the $100,750 Las Cienegas Stakes (gr. IIIT). They want to share that joy with as many people as possible, a drive that resulted in the making of “Behind the Gate,” their award-winning horse racing documentary. That Mark... ...

Triple Crown Drought Over

By Bloodhorse.com ELMONT, N.Y. (June 6, 2015) — The drought is mercifully over. In the 37th year after Affirmed swept the classics in 1978, Zayat Stables’ American Pharoah toyed with the field of seven other horses to win the $1.5 millionBelmont Stakes Presented by DraftKings (gr. I) June 6 at Belmont Park(VIDEO). After a good break, the Pioneerof the Nile colt trained by Bob Baffert easily took the lead and carried the field through fractions of :24.06, :48.83, and 1:13.41 for six furlongs as he used his long stride to gallop effortlessly down the backstretch. The mile went in 1:37.99 and he cruised through 1 1/4 miles in 2:02.33. When Materiality came to challenge in the turn, American Pharoah shrugged him off. When Mubtaahij went under a drive, he couldn’t get within striking distance. When Frosted made the final run, jockey Victor Espinoza simply opened American Pharoah up, cruising away from the rest to hit the wire in the 1 1/2-mile test in 2:26.65, a fifth of a second faster than Affirmed’s Belmont time. “We knew we had the horse and we... ...

Sherman Honored by TOC

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (June 5, 2015) — Trainer Art Sherman has been selected by the Thoroughbred Owners of California to receive the 2014 Ed Friendly Industry Service Award, presented each year to recognize outstanding contributions and service in the California Thoroughbred racing industry. Last year at age 77 Sherman sent out Kentucky Derby (gr. I) winner California Chrome. Two weeks later, The California-bred won the Preakness Stakes (gr. I) en route to the Lucky Pulpit colt being named 2014 champion 3-year-old male and Horse of the Year. For more than 60 years, Sherman has been an integral part of California racing—from stable hand to exercise rider to jockey to trainer. He also served on the TOC board of directors from 2002 to 2006. The TOC said California racing greatly benefited from the excitement surrounding California Chrome’s 3-year-old campaign, and even amidst controversy Sherman remained a wonderful ambassador for this sport. “We are very pleased to honor Art with this award,” TOC chairman Mike Pegram said. “His integrity, humility, and dedication to hard... ...

Bluegrass Angus Wins River

VANCOUVER, B.C. (June 6, 2015) – Bluegrass Angus, a Kentucky-bred son of California stallion Bluegrass Cat, won Saturday’s $50,000 River Rock Casino Handicap for 3-year-olds at Hastings Racecourse. Bluegrass Angus ran the 6 ½ furlongs in 1:16.15 and won by 6 ¼ lengths over California-bred Sam Slick. He has two wins in six starts with earnings of $54,633. ...

Gimme Da Lute in Affirmed

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 4, 2015) – Gimme Da Lute is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $100,000 Grade III Affirmed Stakes for 3-year-olds at Santa Anita. Gimme Da Lute is by Midnight Lute, out of the Proud Citizen mare Casino Gold, was bred by owners Pegram, Watson and Weitman and is trained by Bob Baffert. He has two wins in five starts, earnings of $187,560 and is coming off a third in the May 16 Chick Lang Stakes. ...

‘Chrome Works at Royal Ascot

By The Guardian ASCOT, Great Britain (June 4, 2015) — California Chrome ran what looked like a pleasing trial for Royal Ascot on his first visit to this track on Thursday morning but few people can ever have been so frankly and publicly sorry to be here than Alan Sherman, son of Art, the chestnut’s American trainer. “Obviously, we’d rather be home and running there,” Sherman said after watching the horse gallop. The decision to aim California Chrome at the Prince of Wales’s Stakes later this month was made by Perry Martin, who owns 70% of the colt. Art Sherman has already made it clear that he would have formed a very different plan and, short of bursting into tears, his son could not have been plainer about sharing that regret. “It’s not our decision, that was up to the owners and we’re just going to do what we can that’s best for the horse,” said Sherman Jr. In the buttoned-up world of British Flat racing, it would be rare to hear... ...

‘Chrome’s Martin, One Year Later

By Bloodhorse.com California Chrome‘s co-owner/breeder Perry Martin remembers a long day a year ago filled will nervousness and anticipation. He said his heart that day never seemed to stop racing. But it wasn’t at the 2014 Belmont Stakes (gr. I) when his superstar son of Lucky Pulpit was making his run at a Triple Crown title. The race that got Martin wound up the most had been the one he took aim on soon after his colt was born—the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I). “The emotions were all over the board that day,” Martin said about the Derby. “Our goal, what we had mapped out, was to get to the Derby and win the Derby. My mother even checked herself out of the hospital to go watch our horse run.” By the time the Belmont rolled around, Martin, who partners with Steve Coburn on California Chrome, said he didn’t feel any stress…at least before the race. “When they came out of the gate, I knew immediately something was... ...

Crystal Water Draws Forest Chatter

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 3, 2015) – Forest Chatter brings a four-race win streak into Saturday’s $100,000 Crystal Water Stakes for Golden State Series eligibles at Santa Anita. Patriots Rule is by Tribal Rule, out of the Seattle Bound mare Candy Factory, was bred by Dahlberg Farms, is owned by Charles Garvey and trained by Robertino Diodoro. He has four wins in 16 starts with earnings of $275,480 and is coming off a fifth in a May 8 optional claimer. Somethings Unusual is by Vronsky, out of the Unusual Heat mare Unusual Prospect, was bred by Old English Rancho, is owned by Bruce Treitman and trained by Michael McCarthy. He has two wins in 19 starts, earnings of $151,472 and is coming off a third in a May 17 optional claimer. Awesome Return is by Decarchy, out of the Mr. Broad Blade mare Awesome Broad, was bred by owner Richard Kritzski and is trained by Mike Puype. He has four wins in 13 starts, earnings of $390,980 and is coming off... ...

Sam Slick in River Rock

VANCOUVER, B.C. (June 3, 2015) – Sam Slick is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $50,000 River Rock Casino Handicap for 3-year-olds at Hastings Racecourse. Sam Slick is by Yankee Gentleman, out of the El Corredor mare El Gato Bueno, was bred by Southern Equine Stables and is owned by trainer Brian Kozak. He has one win in five starts, earnings of $41,810 and is coming off a May 16 maiden win. ...

After Ascot, ‘Chrome Targets Arlington

By Paulick Report LEXINGTON, Ky. (May 3, 2015) — In a visit to The Blood-Horse office Tuesday, California Chrome co-owner Perry Martin discussed future races for the chestnut colt, who is currently training at Newmarket for a start at Royal Ascot. A tweet by The Blood-Horse‘s Frank Angst revealed that after the Prince of Wales’s Stakes later this month, Chrome would return stateside to race in the Arlington Million Aug. 15, then race in the G1 Jockey Club Gold Cup and the Breeders’ Cup Classic at Keeneland before retiring to stud in Kentucky. The Prince of Wales’s will be California Chrome’s first start since a second-place finish in the Dubai World Cup March 28. The colt has earned $6,322,650 in 18 starts thus far, with nine wins on multiple surfaces. ...

Deb’s Wildcard

Deb’s Wildcard wins the $50,000 Seattle Handicap at Emerald Downs. ...

Deb’s Wildcard wins; Sister at NorCal Sale

PLEASANTON, Calif. (June 1, 2015) – A yearling full sister to Sunday stakes winner Deb’s Wildcard, the first stakes winner for Desert Code, will be offered at this summer’s Northern California Yearling and Horses of Racing Age Sale, to be held Aug. 11 at the Alameda County Fairgrounds. The filly offered at the Northern California Yearling Sale is owned by Victoria Polzin and consigned by Stony Creek Farm. Deb’s Wildcard, a graduate of the 2013 Northern California Yearling Sale, is the first stakes winner for California stallion Desert Code, out of the Demons Begone mare Deb’s Royal Flush, was bred by Victoria Polzin and Harris Farms, is owned by Robert Jones and Lloyd Mason and is trained by Mason. She has four wins in nine starts, earnings of $113,924 and she won Sunday’s Seattle Handicap at Emerald Downs. ...

Spanish Queen

Spanish Queen wins $400,000 Grade I American Oaks. ...

Classy Oaks Win for Spanish Queen

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (May 30, 2015)–California-bred Spanish Queen called upon her considerable class to rally three wide turning for home en route to a three quarter length win in Saturday’s Grade I, $400,000 American Oaks at Santa Anita. Ridden by Brice Blanc and trained by Richard Baltas, who celebrated his 54th birthday, the 3-year-old filly by the late Tribal Rule negotiated 1 ¼ miles on turf in 2:01.93 and stamped herself as one of the nation’s top 3-year-old fillies. Owned by her breeders, Jack Nakkashian, Harry Bederian and Harout Kamberian, Spanish Queen was heavily favored at 3-5 in a field of six sophomore distaffers and paid $3.40, $2.60 and $2.10. . “My saddle slipped a little bit and it affected my steering because she was a little aggressive when that happened,” said Blanc, who has ridden Spanish Queen in all of her starts. “The more I pulled on her, the more the saddle moved forward so I was a little…I wouldn’t say out of control, but I had... ...

Little Miss Lupe Wins at Finger Lakes

FARMINGTON, N.Y. (May 30, 2015) – Little Miss Lupe, a New York-bred daughter of California stallion Salute the Sarge, won Saturday’s $50,000 Susan B. Anthony Stakes for fillies and mares at Finger Lakes. Little Miss Lupe ran the six furlongs in 1:13.52 and won by one-half length. She has eight wins in 40 starts and earnings of $185,164. ...

Ultimate Eagle Changes Ownership

From Special T Thoroughbreds TEMECULA, Calif. (May 29, 2015) – Stallion and Grade I winner Ultimate Eagle has changed ownership. The new owner is Blackbird Thoroughbreds and they are very excited to have purchased Ultimate Eagle, who earned $547,800 winning the Grade I Hollywood Derby on the turf and Grade II Oak Tree and Grade II Strub Stakes on the dirt, defeating Breeders Cup Champion Tapizar by over 10 lengths. Kelly Cassidy, part owner of Blackbird Thoroughbreds, is happy to be involved with a true Classic Grade I winner. She likes to call him “My ultimate wire-to-wire sire with a triple digit Beyer,” and the only Mizzen Mast bloodline on the West Coast. Ultimate Eagle will remain at Special T Thoroughbreds in Temecula. The new owners encourage late foaling mare owners to inquire about the 17-hand athlete for a discounted stud fee. All inquiries should be directed to Rick Taylor, owner of Special T Thoroughbreds. ...

Cal-bred Sells for $130,000

DEL MAR, Calif. (May 28, 2015) – A son of Stormin Fever sold for $130,000 at Thursday’s Barretts May Sale of 2-Year-olds in Training at Del Mar and was the highest-priced California-bred to go through the ring. The colt, out of the Salt Lake mare Margarita Salt, was consigned by Checkmate Thoroughbreds as part of the partial dispersal for Golden Eagle Farm and was purchased by George Bolton. The sale showed an increase of 38.5% in gross and 5.4% in average over 2014’s edition, held in Pomona. A son of J P’s Gusto topped the sale at $230,000. ...

Bobby Z Man in Siren Lure

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 28, 2015) – Bobby Z Man is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s Siren Lure Stakes at Santa Anita. Bobby Z Man is by Unusual Heat, out of the Smokester mare Craven Cottage, was bred by Abrams and Huston Racing Stables, is owned by Huston Racing Stables, Little Red Feather Racing and Bob Zieman and is trained by Barry Abrams. He has five wins in 15 starts, earnings of $212,950 and is coming off a fifth in a May 10 optional claimer. ...

Barretts First Del Mar Preview

By Bloodhorse.com DEL MAR, Calif (May 27, 2015) — Six 2-year-olds breezed the fastest furlong in :10 in the first Barretts under-tack preview the company has held at Del Mar Race Course in preparation for its May sale of 2-year-olds and horses of racing age at the surfside race place May 28. The sale, which begins at 1 p.m. (PDT) is the first since the California sales company moved its auctions from Pomona to Del Mar. At Pomona, 2-year-olds breezed on a five-furlong track, while at Del Mar they worked over the mile oval on the new dirt surface. After last year’s fall race meet, Del Mar replaced its Polytrack surface with dirt in time for the sale and the upcoming summer race meeting. “The track worked out better than we could have ever hoped,” said Kim Lloyd, general manager of Barretts. “It was a safe and consistent track all day long. The horses handled the track very, very well. It played fair to every horse, and every horse had an opportunity... ...

G. G. Ryder

G. G. Ryder wins the $100,000 Grade III All American Stakes. ...

Spanish Queen Seeks Grade I Win

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 26, 2015) – Spanish Queen is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $400,000 Grade I American Oaks for 3-year-old fillies at Santa Anita. Spanish Queen is by Tribal Rule, out of the Unusual Heat mare Spanish Bunny, was bred by owners Bederian, Kamberian and Nakkashian and is trained by Richard Baltas. She has two wins in three starts, earnings of $183,600 and is coming off a win in the May 3 Honeymoon Stakes. ...

G. G. Ryder Wins All American

From Golden Gate Publicity ALBANY, Calif. (May 25, 2015) — Showing his versatility, California-bred G. G. Ryder followed up his victory on turf in the Grade 3 $100,000 San Francisco Mile with a score on Golden Gate Fields’ synthetic Tapeta racing surface Monday in the Grade 3 $100,000 All American Stakes. G. G. Ryder, employing the same running style he used in capturing the SF Mile on April 25, came from a few lengths off the pace to win the one-mile All American by 1 1/4 lengths under jockey Ricardo Gonzalez. Outside Nashville, ridden by Juan Hernandez, took second by a half-length over Pepper Crown and apprentice jockey David Lopez. Eagle Screams, ridden by Catalino Martinez, pressed front-running Summer Hit, the 2-1 favorite ridden by Russell Baze, from the start and finished fourth, a neck behind Pepper Crown and 2 1/4 lengths in front of Summer Hit. G. G. Ryder completed the mile in 1:36.14 and paid $7.80 as the 5-2 second choice in the wagering.... ...

Richard Mulhall Passes at 76

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (May 25, 2015) — Richard Mulhall, a former trainer and racing manager of The Thoroughbred Corp., died May 25 at his home in Monrovia, Calif., following a lengthy illness, officials with Santa Anita Park publicity department said. He was 76. During his career as a trainer, which began in 1959, Mulhall became widely known as a top developer of 2-year-olds. Later he became racing manger of Saudi Prince Ahmed bin Salman’s The Thoroughbred Corp., which campaign numerous top horses, including dual classic winners War Emblem and Point Given , the latter 2001 Horse of the Year. Salman entered racing in the 1980s as Universal Stable, with Mulhall, who was a friend from college, as his trainer. When the operation was retooled in 1994 into The Thoroughbred Corp., racing homebreds and sales purchases, Mulhall retired from training and became Salman’s top adviser and racing manager. The Thoroughbred Corp. achieved great success in both the sales and racing sides of the business. Prince Ahmed died age 43 in July 2002, only after Kentucky Derby and... ...

Ashleyluvssugar

Ashleyluvssugar wins $200,000 Grade II Charles Whittingham Stakes. ...

Ashleyluvssugar Wins Whittingham

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (May 24, 2015)–California-bred Ashleyluvssugar wheeled four-wide turning for home and went on to a half length win under Gary Stevens in Sunday’s Grade II, $200,000 Charles Whittingham Stakes at Santa Anita. Trained by Peter Eurton, the 4-year-old Game Plan gelding steadied mid-way around the far turn en route to covering 1 ½ miles on turf in 2:30.10. “It looked like it was going to be messy on paper and it was,” said Stevens. “There was no real speed in the race and he was very fresh today. I wasn’t afraid to put him on the lead if that’s where he wanted to be, but Mike (Smith, aboard Brazilian-bred Going Somewhere) sent his horse away from there pretty hard and was intent on getting the lead. ‘Ashley’ got a little rank with me just before we crossed over the dirt, but then he shut down for me and was push button…I got to know him even better today, it’s only the second time I’ve been... ...

Summer Hit Seeks Three-peat

ALBANY, Calif. (May 24, 2015) – Multiple graded stakes winner Summer Hit, winner of the race the last two years, will attempt a three-peat in Monday’s $100,000 Grade III All American Stakes at Golden Gate Pepper Crown is by Peppered Cat, out of the Crowning Storm mare Crown This Lady, was bred by owner and trainer Alex Paszkeicz. He has nine wins in 23 starts, earnings of $357,835 and is coming off a fourth in the Apr. 25 San Francisco Mile. Blues Blaster is by Reddatore, out of the Rhythm mare Miss Rhythmic, was bred by Briere Thoroughbreds and is owned by trainer Bruce Dillenbeck. He has four wins in 12 starts, earnings of $106,876 and is coming off a fifth in an Apr. 19 allowance. G. G. Ryder is by Chhaya Dance, out of the Storm Boot mare Stormy Gigi, was bred by Eagle Oak Ranch, is owned by Jerry Hollendorfer and George Todaro and trained by Hollendorfer. He has nine wins in 18 starts, earnings of $315,114 and... ...

Motown Men

Motown Men wins $150,000 Tiznow Stakes. ...

Neveradoubt

Neveradoubt wins $200,000 Snow Chief Stakes. ...

Sheer Pleasure

Sheer Pleasure wins $200,000 Melair Stakes. ...

Go West Marie

Go west Marie wins $125,000 Fran’s Valentine. ...

Sunday Rules

Sunday Rules wins $150,000 Spring Fever Stakes. ...

Tiznow Taken by Motown Men

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 23, 2015)–Favored Motown Men steadied momentarily a furlong from home while shifting outside pacesetter Spirit Rules en route to an authoritative three-quarter length win under Tyler Baze in Saturday’s $150,000 Tiznow Stakes, getting one mile in 1:35.77. Trained by Ted H. West, bred by Mark Gorman & Doug O’Neill and owned by Gulliver Racing, LLC, the 6-year-old gelding by Decarchy, who came off a close third place finish in the Grade III Precisionist Stakes May 2, got his first stakes win and his sixth career tally from 29 starts. (The Tiznow, run as Santa Anita’s ninth race, is part of the Golden State Series which is restricted to horses bred or sired in California). “Going into the far turn, I had the rail and my horse was really running,” said Baze, who got his third stakes win of the day in the Tiznow. “When I grabbed him (approaching the furlong pole), I didn’t really know if he would get goin’ again. For a split second, I kind... ...

Snow Chief was Neveradoubt

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (May 23, 2015)–Longshot Neveradoubt unleashed a furious stretch rally under Flavien Prat to take Saturday’s $200,000 Snow Chief Stakes by a half length while covering 1 1/8 miles on turf in 1:51.26. Trained by Mike Puype, bred by Janis Whitman and owned by SLO Racing Stable, Tom Hudson and Tony Narducci, the 3-year-old colt by Decarchy lagged early and angled five wide turning for home in what was only his fourth career start. (Run as Santa Anita’s eighth race, the Snow Chief is part of the Golden State Series, which is restricted to horses bred or sired in California). Off at 41-1 in a field of eleven 3-year-olds, Neveradoubt paid $85.40, $30.60 and $13.40. A first-out maiden winner going 6 ½ furlongs versus statebreds Nov. 16 at Del Mar, Neveradoubt got his second win and with top prize money of $110,000, hiked his bankroll to $151,350. “Puype was pretty confident before the race,” said Prat. “I didn’t know this horse but the pace helped... ...

Sheer Pleasure Romps in Melair

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (May 23, 2015)–Allowed to idle in the early stages, favored Sheer Pleasure turned on the after-burners at the top of the lane and went on to a devastating 7 ¼ length win under Tyler Baze in Saturday’s $200,000 Melair Stakes. Conditioned by Phil D’Amato, bred by Madera Thoroughbreds and owned by Little Red Feather Racing and RM Racing, Sheer Pleasure got a mile and a sixteenth in 1:42.78. (Run as Santa Anita’s seventh race, the Melair, for 3-year-old fillies, is part of the Golden State Series which is restricted to horses bred or sired in California). The 4-5 favorite in a field of seven 3-year-old fillies, Sheer Pleasure paid $3.60, $2.60 and $2.40. A winner of the 6 ½ furlong Evening Jewel Stakes at Santa Anita on April 4, Sheer Pleasure notched her third win from five starts and with the winner’s share of $110,000, increased her earnings to $257,450. “I don’t think me being near the lead was a matter of me trying... ...

Go West Marie Wins Fran’s Valentine

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (May 23, 2015)–Favored Go West Marie stretched out off of three consecutive sprints to win Saturday’s $125,000 Fran’s Valentine Stakes by 1 ¼ lengths, while covering one mile on turf under Gary Stevens in 1:38.81. Trained by Eddie Truman, bred by Summer Mayberry and owned by Peter Redekop BC, Ltd., the 4-year-old filly by Western Fame appeared on the muscle early but settled into a stalking trip en route to notching her fourth stakes win and seventh win from 20 starts. (The Fran’s Valentine, run as Santa Anita’s sixth race, was the second in a series of five Golden State Series stakes for horses bred or sired in California). “The key with her is to get relaxed,” said Stevens. “When Rafael (Bejarano, aboard eventual sixth place finisher Wild in the Saddle) was getting out pretty good going into the first turn, it gave me a little bump to get out and she got a little aggressive. Once I got her back midway around the... ...

Sunday Rules Spring Fever Stakes

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (May 23, 2015)–Nick Alexander’s homebred Sunday Rules kept her perfect record intact with a facile three length win in Saturday’s $150,000 Spring Fever Stakes for Golden State Series eligible fillies and mares, as she covered six furlongs in gate to wire fashion under Tyler Baze in 1:08.93. (The Spring Fever was the first of five Golden State Series races run Saturday at Santa Anita for horses bred or sired in California). Conditioned by Phil D’Amato, the 4-year-old California-bred daughter of Tribal Rule now has five wins from as many starts. Heavily favored at 1-5 in a field of six older fillies and mares, she paid $2.60, $2.20 and $2.10. With the winner’s share of $90,000, she increased her earnings to $314, 880. “Nice filly,” said an emphatic Baze. “She runs with her head a little low but…she’s not real fast that first jump out of the gate, but after that she’s a monster. She’s a train really, she just goes. Those first strides, she just... ...

CHRB Meeting Summary

From CHRB ARCADIA, Calif. (May 23, 2015) — The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Thursday, May 21, at Santa Anita Park. Chairman Chuck Winner presided. Vice Chair Richard Rosenberg and Commissioners Madeline Auerbach, Steve Beneto, Jesse Choper, George Krikorian, and Alex Solis also were in attendance. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link. In brief: The Board approved the license application for the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club to conduct a 40-day race meet at Del Mar from Thursday, July 16, through Monday, September 7 (Labor Day). These will be the first races run over Del Mar’s new, dirt main track. CHRB Executive Director Rick Baedeker reported that an additional $1.2 million has been allocated for equine drug testing and research at the U.C. Davis Maddy Laboratory. He also reported that he attended a recent legislative committee hearing in Sacramento concerning online gaming and he testified on the workings and merits of the California horse racing industry and the... ...

Blue Dancer Wins Western Canada

EDMONTON, Alberta (May 23, 2015) – Blue Dancer, a Kentucky-bred son of California stallion Bluegrass Cat, won Saturday’s $50,000 Western Canada Handicap for 3-year-olds at Northlands Park. Blue Dancer ran the six furlongs in 1:10.31 and won by 4 ¾ lengths at odds of 7-2. ...

Smoove It in Gamely

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 22, 2015) – Smoove It is the lone California-bred entered in Monday’s 300,000 Grade I Gamely Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita. Smoove It is by Square Eddie, out of the Distorted Humor mare Smoove, was bred by J. Paul Reddam, is owned by Reddam Racing and trained by Doug O’Neill. She has four wins in 18 starts, earnings of $268,980 and is coming off a second in the Apr. 26 Wilshire. ...

San Onofre in Los Angeles Stakes

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 22, 2015) – With the scratch of Spirit Rules, San Onofre is the lone California-bred expected in Monday’s $100,000 Los Angeles Stakes at Santa Anita. San Onofre is by Surf Cat, out of the Native Regent mare Marrakech Gold, was bred by Bruce Headley, is owned by Matson Racing and trained by Karen Headley. He has four wins in seven starts, earnings of $235,040 and is coming off a second in the Apr. 11 Kona Gold. ...

Cal-bred Pair at Canterbury Park

SHAKOPEE, Minn. (May 22, 2015) – California-breds Deal Master and World Famous Sam T are entered in Monday’s $75,000 Honor the Hero Stakes at Canterbury Park. Deal Master is by Mr. Broad Blade, out of the Master Derby mare Master Blaster, was bred by Kin and Man Hui and is owned by trainer Luis Canchari. He has one win in 12 starts, earnings of $8,940 and is coming off an Apr. 11 maiden win. World Famous Sam T is by Misty’sgoldentouch, out of the Olympio mare Yo Sal, was bred by Laura Bailey, is owned by Henry Paravecino and trained by Dayson Lavanway. He has five wins in 16 starts, earnings of $48,427 and is coming off a sixth in an Apr. 28 claimer. ...

Rebecca’s Surprise Might Go at Monmouth

OCEANPORT, N.J. (May 22, 2015) – Rebecca’s Surprise is on the also-eligible list for the main track only for Monday’s $75,000 Miss Liberty Stakes for fillies and mares at Monmouth Park. Rebecca’s Surprise is by Marino Marini, out of the Montbrook mare Violet Brook, was bred by Milt Policzer, Zuer Racing and Ray Jones, is owned by USA Thoroughbreds and trained by Kelly Breen. She has 12 wins in 32 starts, earnings of $283,478 and is coming off a second in an Apr. 5 optional claimer. ...

TOBA Awards Dinner on Sept. 11

By Bloodhorse.com LEXINGTON, Ky. (May 21, 2015) — The Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association announced that the 30th annual National Awards Dinner will be held Friday, Sept. 11 at Hill ‘n’ Dale Farms near Lexington. The dinner honors owners and breeders from 24 states and Canada, four Regional Owners of the Year, National Owner of the Year, two National Breeders of the Year, Broodmare of the Year, Rood & Riddle Sport Horse of the Year, and the recipient of the Robert N. Clay Award that recognizes a member of the Thoroughbred racing community who has made an outstanding contribution to preserving land for equine use. “We are honored that Hill ‘n’ Dale Farms will host this year’s National Awards Dinner,” said Dan Metzger, president of TOBA, in a release. “Hill ‘n’ Dale provided a spectacular setting for our 2007 dinner and we are excited to return for what promises to be a special evening honoring the leading owners and breeders in Thoroughbred racing.” “We’re excited to have the breeders, the very... ...

CHRB Tables Dates Dispute

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (May 21, 2015) — While pushing a conflict regarding fall racing dates in contention between Santa Anita Park and Los Alamitos Race Course down the line, the California Horse Racing Board still touched on the issues facing the track in northwest Orange County at their monthly meeting May 21 at Santa Anita.Discussion on Sept. 26-27 race dates, which both Santa Anita and Los Alamitos want, was tabled for the second monthly meeting in a row, and will be back on the CHRB agenda for their scheduled June 25 meeting at Los Alamitos. In a discussion about the approval of Los Alamitos’ eight-date meet from July 2 to July 12, however, talk focused on the challenges of the dates sitting between Santa Anita’s spring meeting and Del Mar’s much-anticipated summer meet.“We were disappointed last year, particularly with our on-track business,” Brad McKinzie, the general manager of Los Alamitos’ Thoroughbred racing, said of the track’s first Thoroughbred-only meet since expanding its dirt course to a mile. “There’s no question about it. It is... ...

Ashleyluvssugar in Whittingham

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (May 21, 2015)–Red hot Ashelyluvssugar heads a field of five 3-year-olds and up in Sunday’s Grade II, $200,000 Charles Whittingham Stakes, as the 4-year-old California-bred gelding by Game Plan bids for his second consecutive graded stakes win and his third overall win in a row. Trained by Peter Eurton and owned by his breeders, Sharon Alesia, Bran Jam Stable and Ciaglia Racing, LLC, Ashelyluvssugar rallied from far off the pace under Gary Stevens to take the Grade II, 1 ½ miles turf San Luis Rey Stakes on March 21 and will hope to have a legitimate pace to run at in the Whittingham. With Stevens set to ride back from the outside post position number five, “Ashley” seeks his sixth win from 11 starts as he tries to pad his current bankroll of $335,504. Trainer Todd Pletcher’s multiple graded stakes winning Divine Oath ships west from Belmont Park where he finished a close fourth in the Grade III, 1 1/8 miles turf Fort Marcy... ...

Bloodhorse.com on Gold Rush

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (May 20, 2015) — The most intriguing race on a loaded Santa Anita Park card May 23 might be the opening stakes on “California Gold Rush Day” at the Southern California track. The $150,000 Spring Fever Stakes, at six furlongs, will pit the only graded winner in the five races, Harlington’s Rose, against the lightly-raced but undefeated filly Sunday Rules. Part of the Golden State Series, “Gold Rush Day” features five stakes for horses bred or sired in California with combined purses totaling $825,000. Owned by Thomas Halasz, Ryan Johnson, Paul Newhart and Martha Miller, et al, Harlington’s Rose broke through last time out in the March 8 Las Flores Stakes (gr. III), her third graded try and 21st race overall. The 4-year-old Harlington filly will break from post 2 with jockey Joe Talamo, who guided her to a three-quarter length victory in the Las Flores, as well as a victory in the Kalookan Queen Stakes Dec. 28. BALAN: Harlington’s Rose Rallies to Take Las Flores “She won two stakes at the last meet, and... ...

Rousing Sermon Enters Tiznow

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 20, 2015) – Rousing Sermon is the high earner among entrants in Saturday’s $150,000 Tiznow Stakes for Golden State Series eligibles on the Gold Rush card at Santa Anita. Solid Wager is by Birdonthewire, out of the Valid Wager mare G Ma, was bred by Madera Thoroughbreds, is owned by Gary and Cecil Barber and Stanford Stables and is trained by Peter Miller. He has four wins in 17 starts, earnings of $177,750 and is coming off a fourth in an Apr. 10 optional claimer. Spirit Rules is by Tribal Rule, out of the Danzatore mare Heavenly Lady, was bred by John and Allegra Ernst, is owned by Murphy, Accardy, Seidler, Xitco and Xitco and is trained by Paul Aguirre. He has five wins in 18 starts, earnings of $339,378 and is coming off a fourth in the Apr. 11 Kona Gold. Toledo Eddie is an Idaho-bred by California stallion Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Cape Town mare Cape Town Charmer, was bred by Billingsley Creek... ...

Grazen Sky in Snow Chief

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 20, 2015) – Grazen Sky is joined by fellow stakes winner Richard’s Boy in Saturday’s $200,000 Snow Chief Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-olds on the Gold Rush card at Santa Anita. Cardiac is by Papa Clem, out of the Unusual Heat mare Heatinaheartbeat, was bred by owners Auerbach, Naify, Abrams & Pecoraro and is trained by Barry Abrams. He has one win in nine starts, earnings of $92,778 and is coming off a third in a May 10 optional claimer. Richard’s Boy is by Idiot Proof, out of the Cee’s Tizzy mare Marissa’ Joy, was bred by Harold and Pamela Tillema, is owned by Rockingham Ranch and is trained by Peter Miller. He has four wins in five starts, earnings of $187,840 and is coming off a win in the May 2 Desert Code. Book Thirty Four is by Behrens, out of the Mr. Broad Blade mare Charm N Broad, was bred by owner Ed Delaney and is trained by Doug O’Neill. He has one... ...

Sheer Pleasure, La Fiera Tangle

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 20, 2015) – Sheer Pleasure and La Fiera will be coming off stakes wins when they tangle in Saturday’s $200,000 Melair Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-old fillies on the Gold Rush card at Santa Anita. Barbara Beatrice is by Grazen, out of the Decarchy mare Showtime Apollo, was bred by Phil D’Amato, is owned by D’Amato and Queen Bee Racing and is trained by D’Amato. She has one win in three starts, earnings of $41,440 and is coming off an Apr. 26 maiden win. Thermodynamics is by The Pamplemousse, out of the Unusual Heat mare Thermal Ablasion, was bred by Rancho San Miguel, is owned by Thor-Bred Stables and trained by Dan Hendricks. She has one win in five starts, earnings of $52,570 and is coming off a third in an Apr. 19 allowance. Sheer Pleasure is by Birdonthewire, out of the Blare of Trumpets mare Kathryns Birthday, was bred by Madera Thoroughbreds, is owned by Little Red Feather Racing and R/M Racing and is... ...

Wild in the Saddle in Fran’s Valentine

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 20, 2015) – Dream of Summer stakes winner Wild in the Saddle takes on Saturday’s $125,000 Fran’s Valentine Stakes for Golden State Series eligible fillies and mares on the Gold Rush card at Santa Anita. My Monet is by Decarchy, out of the Lord Avie mare Madam, was bred by Ridgeley Farm, is owned by KM Racing Enterprises and trained by Ricky Agarie. She has five wins in 12 starts, earnings of $190,348 and is coming off consecutive optional claiming wins. Wild in the Saddle is by Silic, out of the Wild Deputy mare Local Law, was bred by Dinesh Miniar, is owned by Nadine Anderson and Cheyenne Ortiz and trained by Richard Baltas. She has eight wins in 34 starts, earnings of $289,318 and is coming off a win in the Mar. 22 Dream of Summer. Go West Marie is by Western Fame, out of the Swiss Yodeler mare Marie’s Rose, was bred by Summer Mayberry, is owned by Peter Redekop and trained by Eddie Truman.... ...

Harlington’s Rose in Spring Fever

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 20, 2015) – Las Flores Stakes winner Harlington’s Rose takes on unbeaten Sunday Rules in Saturday’s $150,000 Spring Fever Stakes for Golden State Series eligible fillies and mares on the Gold Rush card at Santa Anita. Shakeitupbetty is by Ghostszapper, out of the Is It True mare Ring True, was bred by Thomas Bachman, is owned by Seltzer Thoroughbreds and is trained by J. Eric Kruljac. She has two wins in 14 starts, earnings of $`137,549 and is coming off a fifth in an Apr. 18 optional claimer. Harlington’s Rose is by Harlington, out of the Orientate mare A Rose for You, was bred by Y-Lo Racing Stables, is owned by Halasz, Johnson and Newhart and trained by Steve Knapp. She has four wins in 21 starts, earnings of $371,040 and is coming off a win in the Mar. 3 Las Flores. Sidepocket Run is by Unbridled Native, out of the Exclusive Ribot mare On the Snap, was bred by owner Tony Sardo and trained by Phil... ...

Popalicious in First Lady

RUIDOSO, N.M. (May 20, 2015) – Popalicious is the lone California-bred entered in Monday’s $50,000 First Lady Handicap for fillies and mares at Ruidoso Downs. Popalicious is by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Forestry mare Sea Poppy, was bred by Tommy Town Thoroughbreds and is owned by trainer Henry Dominguez. She has six wins in 23 starts, earnings of $237,852 and is coming off an Apr. 24 allowance win. ...

Moussehistopheles in at Northlands

EDMONTON, Alberta (May 20, 2015) – Moussehistopheles is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $50,000 Western Canada Handicap for 3-year-olds at Northlands Park. Moussehistopheles is by The Pamplemousse, out of the Gold Market mare Marketable, was bred by Litt Family Horse Trust & White Crane Thoroughbred Stable, is owned by Garry and Lauri Kugler and trained by Rodney Cone. He is a maiden making his eighth start with earnings of $10,655. ...

Beer Festival at Gold Rush

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (May 20, 2015) — Spend one of the most exciting race days, California Gold Rush Day, trackside at the Santa Anita Gold Rush Beer Festival. Sample amazing and unique beers from the the best craft breweries in So-Cal, get a bite from delicious food trucks and, of course, watch and wager on Live Thoroughbred racing. http://www.santaanita.com/events/california-gold-rush/#.VVzSKvlViko ...

Golden Eagle Partial Dispersal

From Barretts DEL MAR, Calif. (May 20, 2015) — In 1957, John Mabee bought his first two horses for $6,000 at a yearling sale conducted at the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club where he would later become president, board chairman and spearhead for a $80 million rebuilding in the 1990’s. He directed the same passion and determination to the Thoroughbred breeding industry, transforming an undeveloped plot of land in Ramona to the world-renowned Golden Eagle Farm. In 1991, 1997 and 1998, John and Betty Mabee earned Eclipse Awards as the nation’s leading breeders, reigned as North America’s leading owner and breeder by money won in 1992 and topped the California breeders’ earnings list for 19 consecutive years. Golden Eagle Farm developed a reputation of developing broodmare families that were both deep and rich in quality. With the closing of Golden Eagle Farm last fall, the seven 2-year-olds in training and one unraced 3-year-old cataloged to sell at Barretts May Sale to be held on Thursday, May 28th at Del Mar will... ...

Bluegrass Cat Colt Sells for $450,000

By TDN TIMONIUM, Md. (May 20, 2015) — Hip 400 was led out unsold at $160,000 at the Fasig-Tipton Florida sale at Gulfstream Park in March, but the Bluegrass Cat colt had flourished in the interim and sold in Timonium Tuesday for $450,000. Bluegrass Cat stands in California. Taylor Made’s Jacob West, sitting alongside pedigree consultant Eddie Rosen, made the winning bid on behalf of an undisclosed client. Todd Pletcher, who conditioned the juvenile=s Grade I-winning sire, will train the colt. “Taylor Made actually sold him as a yearling and it’s well documented in our system that we loved him,” commented West. “We just had to give a little bit more for him now.” Out of Unbridled Melody (Unbridled’s Song), the colt is a full-brother to stakes winner Michael With Us and a half to Grade I-placed Tourist (Tiznow). After working a furlong in :10 1/5 at Gulfstream in March, he worked a co-bullet in :10 flat in Timonium last week. “I think in Florida, he was a victim of... ...

NTRA Seeks Comments Defining ‘Wager’

From NTRA LEXINGTON, Ky. (May 19, 2015) – With a June 2 deadline looming, only 14 days away, the National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA) is urging individuals to submit a comment to the U.S. Treasury Department in support of modernization of regulations relating to player withholding and reporting. “Recent communications with the Treasury department indicate they are closely monitoring both the quality and quantity of comments,” said NTRA president and CEO Alex Waldrop. “The changes we seek would have a positive impact on every segment of the industry as well as state and federal governments. We urge individual fans, gamblers and other stakeholders to submit a comment through an easy-to-use electronic process available atNTRA.com/IRScomment.” Nearly 2,500 comments originating from all 50 states and the District of Columbia have already been submitted. The changes proposed by the NTRA on behalf of its membership and the Thoroughbred racing industry would positively impact all levels of horseplayers, regardless of whether a person typically wagers $1, $100 or $1,000. For example, the amount wagered... ...

Central Heat

Central Heat wins $61,615 Golden Poppy Stakes. ...

CHRB Meeting Advisory

From CHRB ARCADIA, Calif. (May 18, 2015) — The California Horse Racing Board will conduct its regular monthly meeting this Thursday, May 21, in the Baldwin Terrace Room at Santa Anita Park. The public is encouraged to attend. An audio-only webcast of the meeting can be heard through a link on the CHRB website (webcast). The Board agenda and supporting package of materials also are available on the website. ...

Cal-breds in Spotlight Saturday

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (May 18, 2015) — Harlington’s Rose, winner of the Grade III Las Flores Stakes March 8, worked three furlongs Sunday in 34.80 for next Saturday’s $150,000 Spring Fever Stakes, one of eight major stakes races scheduled starting Saturday and running through Monday, Memorial Day. “She’s doing really well,” said trainer Steve Knapp, who saddled the longest shot in the field, Big Break, to a $33 upset win by 1 ¼ lengths in Saturday’s ninth race. “She’s trained great and this is the plan we’ve had all along, so this is where we’re running.” Saturday features five stakes in the Golden State Series for California-bred or sired horses. In addition to the Spring Fever, they are the $150,000 Tiznow Stakes; the $200,000 Melair Stakes; the $125,000 Fran’s Valentine Stakes; and the $200,000 Snow Chief Stakes. ...

4 O’Clock Fridays at Santa Anita

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (May 15, 2015)–Santa Anita Park has announced a series of six twilight racing cards dubbed “4 O’clock Fridays,” featuring a 4 p.m. first post time each Friday beginning May 22, through the month of June. All Santa Anita Thoroughbreds Club members will receive free General Admission and the track will also present a “Totally 80s” concert series, hosted by K-EARTH 101 radio after the races, beginning at 7:30 p.m. in Sirona’s Sports Bar. In addition to live music (provided on May 22 by “The Young Guns Band”), fans 21 and up will be treated to the following discount drink specials in Sirona’s and in the track’s newest sports bar, The Gallop Out, on the Club House turn: –$3 Bud and Bud Light (16 oz. draft) –$5 Well Cocktails –$10 Domestic Draft Pitchers Santa Anita will also open at 11 a.m. each Friday beginning May 22 for simulcast racing from across North America. For more information regarding “4 O’clock Fridays,” including a complete schedule of... ...

NorCal Sale Grad Wins

ALBANY, Calif. (May 17, 2015) – Northern California Yearling and Horses of Racing Age Sale graduate Papaclem’smidnight won the seventh race at Golden Gate on Sunday, a maiden special weight for fillies and mares. Papaclem’smidnight is a 3-year-old filly by Papa Clem, out of the Bold Badgett mare Midnight Mango, was bred by SLU Inc., consigned by Harris Farms, is owned by GCCI and trained by Cliff Delima. She sold for $18,000 at the 2013 Northern California Yearling and Horses of Racing Age Sale. Papaclem’smidnight ran the five furlongs in :58.92 and won by three-quarters of a length at odds of 7-1. This year’s Northern California Yearling Sale will be held Aug. 11 at the Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton. ...

Home Journey in Mizdirection

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 17, 2015) – Stakes winner Home Journey is the lone California-bred entered in Friday’s $75,000 Mizdirection Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita. Home Journey is by Good Journey, out of the Came Home mare Goodtobehome, was bred by Mark and Daryle Ann Giardino & John Elick, is owned by GGG Stables and Russell Sarno and is trained by Mike Puype. She has five wins in 12 starts, earnings of $279,920 and is coming off a win in the Apr. 11 Las Cienegas Stakes. ...

No Tricks for Jack in Albuquerque

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (May 17, 2015) – No Tricks for Jack is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $55,000 Albuquerque Distaff for fillies and mares at Albuquerque Downs. No Tricks for Jack is by Jackpot, out of the Mazel Trick mare Swift Trick, was bred by Vessels Stallion Farm, is owned by J. Kirk and Judy Robison and is trained by Henry Dominguez. She has 14 wins in 45 starts, earnings of $208,232, and is coming off a May 1 optional claiming win. ...

Horses Get Feel of Del Mar Track

By UTSandiego.com DEL MAR, Calif. (May 17, 2015) — Del Mar was banging the drum loudly Wednesday about its reduced environmental footprint thanks to its use of recycled water and the recycling of all waste off its backstretch. Considering the shortage of potable water in California due to the fourth year of drought and the state’s constant concern for the environment, what Del Mar and the 22nd District Agricultural Association are doing with water savings and a recycling program for backstretch waste is worth crowing about. Del Mar will use even less recycled water this year thanks to a switch back to a dirt track that will require far less water than the old synthetic Polytrack, which had to be watered constantly to keep the temperature of the surface down and the materials manageable. Del Mar recently completed installation of a new dirt track, El Segundo sand imported from the Los Angeles Airport area, and it will be maintained with recycled water. “We had our first horses on the new dirt... ...

Longshot Cal-bred a Tongue-twister

By Bloodhorsre.com PIMLICO, Md. (May 15, 2015) — As he prepares his longshot Bodhisattva for the May 16 Xpressbet.com Preakness Stakes (gr. I) at Pimlico Race Course, trainer Jose Corrales makes no apologies for the unusual name that is a tongue-twister for track announcers. “It’s hard to say, and I have a hard time saying it,” said Corrales, 55, a native of Panama. “But he is named for a Buddha in India and it means enlightened one.’ “ If Bodhisattva, the only one in the Preakness field with a race on the Pimlico dirt—a victory in the April 18 Federico Tesio Stakes—pulls off an upset over 4-5 morning-line favorite American Pharoah and six others in the 1 3/16-mile race, he would light up the tote board. He is 20-1 in the morning line and breaks from post 6 under Trevor McCarthy, who turns 21 years old on Preakness day. A son of Student Council , Bodhisattva was bred in California by Andy Stronach. Stronach is the son of Frank Stronach, chairman of The Stronach Group, which operates Pimlico... ...

‘Chrome Pre-entered for Coral Eclipse

By Bloodhorse.com NEWMARKET, Great Britain (May 14, 2015) — America’s dual classic winner California Chrome is among several international stars that have been pre-entered in the July 4 Coral Eclipse Stakes (Eng-I) at Sandown Park. DAP Racing’s homebred son of Lucky Pulpit is in Newmarket training toward his next start June 17 in the Prince of Wales’s Stakes (Eng-I) at Royal Ascot. After Ascot, California Chrome could face multiple French highweight Cirrus des Aigles in the Coral Eclipse along with multiple Australian grade I winner Criterion, and Japanese group I winner Spielberg, who could become the Eclipse Stakes’ first Japanese-bred challenger. The 69 horses pre-entered also include Irish group stakes winner and group I-placed Free Eagle, who may be making his first 2015 start at Sandown, along with English group-placed runner Moheet and stakes winner Zawraq. “The thinking behind the Coral Eclipse is straightforward,” California Chrome’s co-owner and breeder Perry Martin said of the just more than 10-furlong race for 3-year-olds and up. “Chrome’s first race back from England will be the Arlington Million (gr. IT). The U.S. quarantine for returning horses... ...

Omar at Northlands Park

EDMONTON, Alberta (May 14, 2015) — Omar is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $50,000 Journal Handicap at Northlands Park. Omar is by Bertrando, out of the Beau Genius mare Perfect Doll, was bred by Omar Aldabbagh, is owned by Randy Exelby, Tim Gordon and Running Rabbit and is trained by Roberto Diodoro. He has nine wins in 26 starts, earnings of $162,123 and is coming off an Apr. 1 claiming win. ...

Gimme Da Lute Enters Chick Lang

PIMLICO, Md. (May 13, 2015) – California-bred stakes winner Gimme Da Lute is entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Chick Lang Stakes for 3-year-olds at Pimlico. Gimme Da Lute is by Midnight Lute, out of the Proud Citizen mare Casino Gold, was bred by owners Watson, Pegram and Weitman and is trained by Bob Baffert. He has two wins in four starts, earnings of $177,560 and is coming off a third in the May 2 Pat Day Mile. ...

Cal-bred Bodhisattva Enters Preakness

By Louisville Courier-Journal PIMLICO, Md. (May 13, 2015) — As Jose Corrales trains a longshot colt up to Saturday’s Preakness, he’s doing so with a mantra the Panamanian lived by while winning more than 1,000 races as a jockey. “I used to say, ‘I’m not better than nobody, but nobody’s better than me,'” Corrales recalled Tuesday. The California-bred Bodhisattva, named for a Buddhist term that means “enlightened one,” is Corrales’ horse – an apt moniker with connections carrying much respect for their foes into the second leg of the Triple Crown. They’ll match up with Kentucky Derby winner American Pharoah, runner-up Firing Line and Dortmund, among those that entered Wednesday. Bodhisattva won Pimlico’s Federico Tesio Stakes last time out, a score for a horse Corrales at one point hoped could make his way on the Kentucky Derby trail. That he settled instead for the Preakness hasn’t dimmed the Maryland-based conditioner’s spirits. Saturday’s race marks the first Triple Crown event for the 55-year-old, either as a jockey or trainer. “This is... ...

Time for a Memory in Wild Rose

EDMONTON, Alberta (May 13, 2015) — Time for a Memory is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $50,000 Wild Rose Handicap for fillies and mares at Northlands Park. Time for a Memory is by Time to Get Even, out of the Rio Verde mare Making Memories, was bred by Terry Lovingier, is owned by Ed Maier and trained by Tim Rycroft. She has eight wins in 21 starts, earnings of $88,256 and is coming off wins in last year’s Sonoma Handicap and Saskatchewan Derby. ...

‘Chrome Training in Newmarket

By Wordsmith Media NEWMARKET, Great Britain (May 11, 2015) — California Chrome looks well and enjoys working the wide open spaces of the Newmarket gallops as trainers condition the American champion for his Royal Ascot target and first English race on undulating turf, on June 17.Trainers Art Sherman in California and Rae Guest in Newmarket are in touch frequently. Both long-time trainers know they have to teach this horse new tricks.“It’s a whole new ballgame,” Sherman said.Guest closely watches how the horse is training at each step; he recently recommended that Chrome pass on speculation he might contest the Lockinge Stakes on May 16, as a warm-up race. He wasn’t ready. The next step, in the form of a racecourse gallop, will come “when we’re happy with him and he’s up to speed,” Guest said.As the trainer of record, Sherman closely follows the progress reports. Chrome seems to be learning from his slow start, he said. “He’s taking his head up.”Drier weather conditions in England have the turf firmer than... ...

‘Chrome’s Sister’s Debut Delayed

ALBANY, Calif. (May 11, 2015) – Hope’s Love, a full sister to Horse of the Year California Chrome, will not make her racing debut on Friday, despite being entered in a 2-year-old fillies maiden special weight race at Golden Gate. Hope’s Love is by Lucky Pulpit, out of the Not For Love mare Love the Chase, was bred by owners Perry Martin and Steve Coburn and is trained by Steve Sherman. Hope’s Love was listed as the 8-5 morning line favorite in the overflow field of 14 entered. She is coming off a bullet work out of 67 workers on May 3, going four furlongs in :47. ...

She’s Ordained Enters Skipat

PIMLICO, Md. (May 11, 2015) – She’s Ordained is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Skipat Stakes for fillies and mares at Pimlico. She’s Ordained is by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Not For Love mare Whole Lotta Love, was bred by Tommy Town Thoroughbreds, is owned by Ronald Ulrich and trained by Tim Keiser. She has 15 wins in 40 starts, earnings of $455,025 and is coming off a second in the Apr. 18 Primonetta Stakes. She was fourth in this race last year. ...

Central Heat Wins Golden Poppy

From Golden Gate Publicity ALBANY, Calif. (May 10, 2015) — The 6-year-old California-bred mare Central Heat extended her winning streak to four races and earned her first stakes victory Saturday when she out-kicked Theatre Star and Sing and Tell in the final sixteenth of a mile to capture the $61,615 Golden Poppy Stakes at Golden Gate Fields. Central Heat, who is undefeated under jockey Russell Baze, defeated Theatre Star and jockey Frank Alvarado by a neck in the 1 1/16-mile turf race for fillies and mares. Sing and Tell, who nearly stole the race at odds of 12-1 under Abel Cedillo, finished third, a half-length behind Theatre Star. Central Heat charged from fifth in a field of eight to earn her eighth victory in 11 starts for trainer Bill Delia, who privately purchased the California-bred daughter of Unusual Heat after she finished second in a modest $8,000 starter allowance race in February 2014. Central Heat was bred by Abrams, Huston Racing, Matties Racing and Auerbach. ... ...

Tabled With Gold in Hastings

AUBURN, Wash. (May 7, 2015) – Tabled With Gold is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $50,000 Hastings Handicap for fillies and mares at Emerald Downs. Tabled With Gold is by Formal Gold, out of the Never Tabled mare Tabled With Saros, was bred by Patricia Zacker & Ellen Hughes, is owned by Zacker and trained by Roy Lumm. She has seven wins in 17 starts, earnings of $122,341 and is coming off a third in the Mar. 14 Camilla Urso. ...

Turf Paradise Horses Banned in Calif.

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (May 7, 2015) — The California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) announced Thursday that all horses stabled at or en route from Turf Paradise will be denied access to California racetracks and other facilities within the Board’s jurisdiction due to the California Department of Food and Agriculture’s (CDFA) determination that a horse at Turf Paradise was confirmed to have vesicular stomatitis (VS). In fact, horses from confirmed VS premises are not allowed by the CDFA into California. Horses previously stabled at Turf Paradise that already have entered CHRB-controlled facilities have been placed under special surveillance and health monitoring. VS is a contagious viral disease that affects horses, cattle and pigs. It can be transmitted by insects or through animal-to-animal contact. While human infection is not common, the virus can produce flulike illness in people. Additional information is available at the CDFA website. ...

Sing and Tell Returns in Golden Poppy

ALBANY, Calif. (May 7, 2015) – Stakes winner Sing and Tell returns from an eight-month layoff in Saturday’s $50,000 Golden Poppy Stakes for fillies and mares at Golden Gate. Handfull is by Comic Strip, out of the Roman Dancer mare Honoree, was bred by Dr. & Mrs. William Gray, is owned by Team Green, Hollendorfer and Nakkashian and is trained by Jerry Hollendorfer. She has 12 wins in 27 starts, earnings of $231,203 and is coming off a four consecutive wins. Sing and Tell is by Alymagic, out of the Avenue of Flags mare Refreshing Song, was bred by Daehling Ranch, is owned by Joe Daehling and Holly Evans and is trained by Evans. She has seven wins in 25 starts, earnings of $238,962 and is making her first start since a fifth in a Sept. 11 allowance. Central Heat is by Unusual Heat, out of the Smart Strike mare Miss Boomtown, was bred by Abrams, Huston Racing, Matties Racing and Auerbach, is owned by Dave Del Debbio, William Delia... ...

Warren’s Veneda Risks Win Streak

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 6, 2015) – Grade I winner Warren’s Veneda is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $300,000 Grade I Vanity Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita. Warren’s Veneda is by Affirmative, out of the Flying Continental mare More Cal Bread, was bred by owner Benjamin Warren and is trained by Craig Lewis. She has eight wins in 22 starts, earnings of $827,612 and has a three-race win streak, most recently the Mar. 14 Santa Margarita Stakes. ...

H-2B Worker Rule Issued

From AHC WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 5, 2015) — On April 29, 2015, the Department Homeland Security (DHS) and Department Labor (DOL) issued a final interim H-2B temporary guest worker program rule and a final wage rule. This final interim H-2B rule is almost identical to a 2012 H-2B program rule that has been blocked by a federal court since its release and was opposed by the American Horse Council and other industries that rely on the H-2B program. Both rules are effective immediately. The H-2B program is used by members of the horse industry, principally horse trainers and owners who cannot find American workers to fill semi-skilled jobs at racetracks, horse shows, fairs and in similar non-agricultural activities. Final Interim Rule The AHC, in conjunction with a broad coalition of H-2B users, is opposed to implementation of this new interim final H-2B rule and final wage rule. The AHC believes these rules will make the H-2B program even more costly and burdensome for employers who are forced to use... ...

E.W. (Buddy) Johnston Passes

By Bloodhorse.com E. W. “Buddy” Johnston, a major California breeder who headed his family’s Old English Rancho, died May 5 in his sleep. He would have turned 78 May 6. Old English Rancho and the Johnston family’s racing roots trace to 1939, when Johnston’s father, E.B., also known as “The Pie Man”, bought his first horse. More recently, Old English bred and raced Acclamation, champion older male of 2011. Acclamation stands at Old English in Sanger, Calif., and his first foals are yearlings. Buddy Johnston was born into the business. Though E.B. founded Old English, his son worked side-by-side with his father throughout his youth. Buddy and his wife, Judy, took over day-to-day operation of the farm in 1957. Buddy’s father died in 1981, and his mother, Betty, who was also instrumental in the family business, died in 2000. The Johnstons first established Old English in Chino, Calif., with partner Ted Tepper. They later moved it to nearby Ontario and eventually to Sanger. The ranch was named the nation’s top breeding... ...

Spanish Queen

Spanish Queen wins $200,000 Grade II Honeymoon Stakes. ...

Spanish Queen Wins Honeymoon

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (May 3, 2015)–Lightly raced Spanish Queen attended the pace, saved ground and accelerated through an opening two paths off the rail turning for home to register an impressive 1 ½ length win under Brice Blanc in Sunday’s Grade II, $200,000 Honeymoon Stakes for 3-year-old fillies, covering 1 1/8 miles on turf in 1:47.24. Trained by Richard Baltas, the California-bred daughter of Tribal Rule came off a close second at the distance in the Grade III Providencia Stakes April 4 and got her first stakes win Sunday and her second win from just three starts. “She has a helluva turn of foot,” said Baltas. “Brice made a good move there at the top of the lane. I thought he was going to go around, which probably wouldn’t have mattered, but he did make a helluva move there splitting horses…If she comes out of the race good and she really wants to go, then maybe we go in the American Oaks (Grade I, 1 ¼ miles... ...

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