Hovdey on California Chrome

Feb 5, 2015 Posted by CTBA In Uncategorized

By Jay Hovdey, DRF.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Feb. 5, 2015) — There is a school of thought – or at least a correspondence course – that holds that the reigning Horse of the Year should have no easy afternoons. That he or she should be tested to the max in each and every race, and that the title bestowed for the previous season should be validated at every possible turn. Sounds good to me. It probably was fun to watch but hard to be impressed when 1947 Horse of the Year Armed came out in early January of ’48 to beat Stageboy by half a length in an allowance race at Gulfstream Park. Roman Brother was a compromise choice as 1965 Horse of the Year when he got very good in the fall and won the Woodward, the Manhattan, and the Jockey Club Gold Cup in a 27-day span, but he hardly enhanced his status with his 1966 debut in an allowance race at Hialeah. And the mighty Forego would get... ...

Harlington’s Rose in Wishing Well

ARCADIA, Calif. (Feb. 5, 2015) – Stakes winner Harlington’s Rose and fellow California-bred Global Hottie are entered in Sunday’s $75,000 Wishing Well 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 Thomas Halasz, Ryan Johnson, Paul Newhart, Marth Miller et al and is trained by Steve Knapp. She has three wins in 19 starts, earnings of $301,680 and is coming off a third in the Jan. 19 Santa Monica. Global Hottie is by Dixie Chatter, out of the Desert God mare Sonora Desert, was bred by Baseline Equine, is owned by Karl Watson, Mike Pegram and Paul Weitman and is trained by Bob Baffert. She has four wins in six starts, earnings of $156,490 and is coming off a Jan. 18 optional claiming win. ...

Ascot Recruiting California Chrome

By TDN ASCOT, England (Feb. 5, 2015) — Ascot’s Head of International Racing, Nick Smith, will next week begin a three-week international tour aimed at head-hunting global stars for this year’s Royal Ascot meeting, according to Racing Post. Smith told the trade daily Horse of the Year California Chrome (Lucky Pulpit) and Hong Kong star Able Friend (Aus) (Shamardal) are high on his list of horses to recruit. “Able Friend and California Chrome would be the two highest-profile horses we’ll be looking at,” Smith said. “Able Friend would be a short-priced favorite for the Queen Anne, and the owner and John Moore have been public in their aspirations to have a Royal Ascot winner. It’s encouraging we have been identified as their overseas target.” He added, “I sat down with [California Chrome’s trainer] Art Sherman at the Breeders’ Cup. Art said he was considering Dubai and Royal Ascot, possibly one of the two or both. I’ll be following up with him about plans.” Smith added that he would also be... ...

Featured Legislator: John Yarmuth

From NTRA WASHINGTON, D.C. (Feb. 5, 2015) – John Yarmuth’s third district includes the city of Louisville – home to Churchill Downs, host of the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks. Experience: Rep. Yarmuth is serving his fifth term in the U.S. House of Representatives. He was first elected to office in 2007. Impact on horse racing industry: Rep. Yarmuth has previously authored legislation to address IRS reporting and withholding requirements relative to winning pari-mutuel wagers that the industry has identified as outdated and inequitable when compared to the taxation of winnings for other forms of gambling. In June of 2014, Rep. Yarmuth joined 16 other members of Congress in supporting a key initiative of the NTRA, a request that the IRS modernize the definition of the “cost of a wager” when determining whether a winning horseplayer is subject to IRS reporting and withholding. Last week, Rep. Yarmuth hosted a face-to-face meeting with the U.S. Department of Treasury to discuss strategies for addressing the industry’s concerns with current tax law. The... ...

‘Chrome to Battle Shared Belief

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Feb. 4, 2015) — Some things are worth waiting for. It’s been a long time since racing fans have witnessed the great rivalries that were such an integral part of the sport when names like Affirmed and Alydar, Damascus and Dr. Fager, Swaps and Nashua, and Seabiscuit and War Admiral seemed to roll off the tongue as a single entity. Today, fans have had to settle for great rivalries of the mind, in which they could do no more than envision what it would be like for Zenyatta and Rachel Alexandra to face each other. A rivalry like the one in 2010 and ’11 between Blind Luck and Havre de Grace, as competitive as it was, never seemed to capture the interest of mainstream America. What racing needs is a good old fashioned male rivalry, gunslinger versus gunslinger, with a popular Kentucky Derby (gr. I) winner at the center of it. It was a long time coming, but it looks as if those California protagonists, California... ...

Special Olympics Seeking Horses

From Special Olympics LOS ANGELES, Calif. (Feb. 4, 2015) — The Special Olympics World Games – being staged in Los Angeles July 25 – August 2, 2015 will be the largest humanitarian event anywhere in the world in 2015, and the single biggest event in Los Angeles since the 1984 Olympic Games. The Games will welcome 7,000 athletes and 3,000 coaches representing 177 countries, along with 30,000 volunteers and an anticipated 500,000 spectators. The World Games will feature 25 Olympic style sports throughout the Los Angeles region including eight days of equestrian competition at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center. Ride On Therapeutic Horsemanship is managing the equestrian component of the World Games building on 20 years of experience mounting horse shows and serving the disabled. We are assembling a world-class team of horse professionals, volunteers and competition personnel. If you are interested in any aspect of this amazing experience, please contact us. For horse professionals this will be a once-in-a-lifetime challenge. One of the most challenging aspects of the entire... ...

‘Chrome Stars on FOX Sports 1

By The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, KY. (Feb. 4, 2015) — The Jockey Club Tour on FOX Sports 1 will break from the gate in dramatic fashion Saturday with a two-hour telecast featuring four major stakes races from historic Gulfstream Park and Santa Anita Park, a Pick Four wager on those races, a betting challenge that will benefit equine charities and several feature stories on horses and people. The telecast, which will air from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. EST on FOX Sports 1, will include the $500,000 Donn Handicap, the $500,000 San Antonio, the $300,000 Gulfstream Park Turf Handicap and the $200,000 San Marcos Stakes. The San Antonio will feature 2014 Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner California Chrome and 2013 Eclipse Award winner Shared Belief as the two renew a rivalry that started in the controversial running of the Breeders’ Cup Classic last November 1. America’s Best Racing has produced a promotional video for “The Rematch.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=frJ1jkzG2Qk&feature=youtu.be The Donn Handicap field will include Lea, who won last year’s Donn; Constitution, the... ...

Cal-bred Trio Enters Oaks

ALBANY, Calif. (Feb. 4, 2015) – A trio of California-breds is entered in Saturday’s $50,000 California Oaks for 3-year-old fillies at Golden Gate. Niassa is by Papa Clem, out of the Tale of the Cat mare Glamour Cat, was bred by owners Barbara and Jack Owens and is trained by William Morey. She has three wins in five starts, earnings of 110,780 and is coming off a Jan. 8 allowance win. Swiss Skimmer is by Swiss Yodeler, out of the Skimming mare Coastal Skimming, was bred by owners Mr. and Mrs. Larry Williams and is trained by Seven Specht, She has one win in nine starts, earnings of $45,103 and is coming off a seventh in the Jan. 24 Xpressbet California Cup Oaks. Aly’s Last Magic is by Alymagic, out of the Tychonic mare Prochonic, was bred by owner and trainer Alex Paszkeicz. She is a maiden making her second start with earnings of $4,056. ...

Retired Racehorses to Work with Amputees

From Healing Arenas ESCALON, Calif. (Feb. 4, 2015) — “Stable Journeys,” a new program designed by Healing Arenas, Inc., will serve the area’s underserved amputee population and their families with adoptable retired racehorses. The initiative pairs EAGALA (Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association – http://www.eagala.org/) certified mental health professionals and equine specialists in a program to help amputees adapt to permanent life change by the loss of a limb(s). “Horses help with the emotional transition to life without a limb(s). Overcoming the emotional obstacles, feeling loved, empowered and accepted are essential steps in maintaining a full life.” explained Julie Baker, Founder and President of Healing Arenas, Inc. “We are looking forward to providing tools for people to succeed while helping the horses prepare for their new careers after racing.” “Being an amputee is not the end of our life. It’s the beginning of a different one. Thank God someone cares to design a program to help us.” said Donna Nadalin, amputee since 2008. “Stable Journey’s” permanent location is yet to... ...

California Chrome

California Chrome works out at Los Alamitos Feb. 1. ...

Art Sherman

Trainer Art Sherman discusses California Chrome’s Feb. 1 workout. ...

Cal-bred Champions of 2014 Announced

ARCADIA, Calif. (Feb. 1, 2015) — The California-bred Horse of the Year for 2014 will be announced at the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association’s Annual Meeting and Awards Dinner, to be held Feb. 9 at the Pasadena Westin. The three finalists for Horse of the Year, in alphabetical order, are: Alert Bay, Big Macher and California Chrome. The business session of the annual meeting begins at 4 p.m. with a 6 p.m. cocktail reception and a 7 p.m. awards dinner. For reservations, please contact Christy Chapman at 626-445-7800 ext: 247 or email at christy@ctba.com. The other champions that will be presented at the dinner: Champion Sire of California Conceived Foals by Earnings – Lucky Pulpit, owned by Mr. and Mrs. Larry Williams. Champion Sire of California Conceived Foals by Turf Earnings – Unusual Heat, owned by the Unusual Heat Syndicate. Champion Sire of California Conceived Two-Year-Olds by Earnings – Papa Clem, property of a syndicate. Champion Sire of California Conceived Foals by Number of Winners – Tribal Rule. Champion Breeders of... ...

Nancy Probert

By Emily Shields Nancy Probert has been a member of the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association for so long that it’s almost part of her identity. Although her parents had nothing to do with horses, an Irish grandmother is responsible for introducing Probert to the game. “She couldn’t drive, but she liked to bet on horses,” Probert recalled. “I started liking the sport and became a CTBA member in 1963.” Nancy also connected to horses via her mother, Dorothy Kitchen, a movie star who was in numerous 1920s westerns. Nancy’s Hollywood roots included her grandfather, Thomas H. Ince, a film industry leader who made more than 600 films. But Nancy’s passion for horses didn’t really take flight until she met her late husband. Nancy caught a ride to Catalina Island on the seaplane of Dick Probert, a well-known pilot. Later Dick required a stewardess for his plane, “Mother Goose.” He hired Nancy first, then married her. They were living in Long Beach when Dick decided he needed room for his planes;... ...

Sherman Wanted Faster Chrome Work

By Bloodhorse.com CYPRESS, Calif. (Feb. 1, 2015) — Horse of the Year California Chrome put in the final major drill for his 4-year-old debut when breezing five furlongs in 1:01 3/5 Feb. 1 at Los Alamitos Racecourse. California Chrome is set to run in the $500,000 San Antonio Stakes (gr. II) Feb. 7 at Santa Anita Park, a race that is expected to also draw champion Shared Belief and Clark Handicap (gr. I) winner Hoppertunity. Working on his own over a track cleared of other horses, California Chrome was steadily put through his paces by regular rider Victor Espinoza. The California-bred son of Lucky Pulpit galloped out six furlongs in 1:14. Trainer Art Sherman said afterward that he was looking for California Chrome to go about a second faster, but noted that Espinoza didn’t want to encourage the powerful chestnut colt because he might go too fast. “I think it was a good work, but I just wanted to have a little sharper workout for him going into this race,”... ...

‘Chrome Memorabilia at Auction

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 30, 2015) — Collectors, “Chromies,” and curators will be vying for the race-worn winning silks of a champion as well as other prized pieces in a historical opportunity when the California Chrome Vox Populi Charity Auction begins today. This unique, 10-day online auction will feature five museum-quality pieces celebrating California Chrome, the winner of last year’s Kentucky Derby and Preakness as well as the 2014 Eclipse Award for Horse of the Year and the Secretariat Vox Populi Award, which recognizes the horse whose popularity and racing excellence best resounded with the American public and gained recognition for Thoroughbred racing. The items–all with impeccable provenance and of profound significance–were donated by California Chrome’s owners Steve Coburn and Perry Martin in collaboration with Mrs. Penny Chenery and the Secretariat Archives, to benefit the Secretariat Foundation. Most notable in this impressive collection are the actual DAP Racing silks worn by Victor Espinoza when he guided California Chrome to his first significant win in the San Felipe... ...

Cal-bred Pair in El Diario

SUNLAND PARK, N.M. (Feb. 2, 2015) – California-breds Popalicious and Hidethgoodstuff are entered in Saturday’s $50,000 El Diario Handicap for fillies and mares at Sunland Park. Popalicious is by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Forestry mare Sea Poppy, was bred by Tommy Town Thoroughbreds, is owned by Solitaire Stables, Allen Aldridge, Tom Mansor and Skyler Kelley and is trained by Henry Dominguez. She has five wins in 20 starts, earnings of $207,392 and is coming off a fourth in a Jan. 17 allowance. Hidethegoodstuff is by Old Topper, out of the Storm Boot mare Minimums Minimums, was bred by owner Tommy Town Thoroughbreds and is trained by Henry Dominguez. She had three wins in 19 starts, earnings of $157,067 and is coming off a fifth in a Jan. 17 allowance. ...

NTRA Meets with Treasury Dept.

By DRF.com WASHINGTON, D.C. (Jan. 29, 2015) — Officials with the National Thoroughbred Racing Association and several horseplayers met with an official in the Treasury Department this week in Washington to discuss the NTRA’s request for a change in how gambling winnings are taxed, the president of the NTRA said on Thursday. Alex Waldrop, the president of the NTRA, said the official for Treasury was a “high-ranking individual … who has policy responsibility.” He declined to name the official but said the person was a horseplayer who understood the dynamics of wagering and how betting is affected by tax policies. “The good news is that we now have an open dialogue with Treasury,” Waldrop said. “But we don’t have anything definitive yet.” The meeting was put together by U.S. Rep. John Yarmuth, a Democrat who represents Louisville, Ky. An official with Churchill Downs Inc. also was at the meeting. Churchill operates three racetracks and the largest account-wagering company in the U.S. Last year, the NTRA sent a letter to Treasury... ...

BetAmerica Sponsors CTBA Awards

From BetAmerica ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 28, 2015) – BetAmerica has agreed to be the presenting sponsor for the 2014 California Thoroughbred Breeders Association (CTBA) Annual Awards Dinner, to be held at the Westin at Pasadena on Monday, Feb. 9, 2015. Every year the CTBA names California-bred champions in nine categories, including the prestigious Horse of the Year. As feted as Points Offthebench was last year, it’s expected that California Chrome will be named Champion Three-Year-Old and will be the frontrunner for Horse of the Year. Hall of Fame inductions, as well as Trainer of the Year, Leading Breeder and five categories of Leading Stallion awards will also be included in the night’s honors. “2014 was the year we launched in California and, after a successful first year, we are delighted to be able to support this event which honors California breeders” said John Ford, CEO of BAM Software and Services, which powers BetAmerica. “We are delighted to have BetAmerica as a sponsor of this premier event which should be extra special this... ...

Big Macher Returns in Palos Verdes

ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 28, 2015) – Grade I winner Big Macher is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $200,000 Grade II Palos Verdes Stakes at Santa Anita. Big Macher is by Beau Genius, out of the Kris S. mare Insight, was bred by Ballena Vista Farm, is owned by Tom Mansor and Tachycardia Stables and trained by Richard Baltas. He has six wins in 14 starts, earnings of $553,678 and is coming off a win in the Nov. 23 Cary Grant. Big Macher was claimed by Richard Baltas from his first start, a $20,000 maiden claiming race on July 17, 2013, has paid his way and then some. Baltas had ticketed Big Macher for the $150,000 California Cup Sprint on Sunshine Millions California Cup Day last Saturday, but after drawing the one post position, opted to wait for the Palos Verdes, one reason being he hoped to get a more advantageous post position. “I didn’t expect him to achieve what he has so far, hell no,” Baltas said of the 5-year-old gelding. “When... ...

Barretts January Sales on Par

By DRF.com POMONA, Calif. (Jan. 28, 2015) — The Barretts January mixed sale finished on Monday with returns on-par with last year’s renewal. The one-day auction moved 248 horses for revenues of $2,104,800, up eight percent from the 2014 sale, when 224 horses sold for $1,944,900. The average sale price of $8,487 marked a two percent decline from last year’s figure of $8,683, while the median fell seven percent from $5,350 to $5,000. The buyback rate finished at 24 percent, up seven percentage points from last year’s auction, where the buyback rate was 17 percent. A pair of 2-year-olds and a broodmare topped the sale, each hammering for $50,000. Bruno De Berdt purchased a 2-year-old War Chant colt, as agent, out of the unplaced Bernardini mare Primp. Bred in Kentucky by Calumet Farm, he is the second foal out of Primp, and his second dam is the multiple Grade 2 winner Runway Model. The colt sold for $15,000 at last year’s Keeneland September yearling sale and he was consigned at... ...

CTFMA Plans Pedigree Seminar

From CTFMA SAN DIEGO, Calif. (Jan. 28, 2015) – The California Thoroughbred Farm Managers Association will sponsor a pedigree clinic in February, with sessions held in Los Angeles and San Diego Counties. The first will be Feb. 7 at 10 a.m. in the Arcadia area, the second on Feb. 12 at 6:30 p.m. in the San Diego Area. The workshop will be conducted by Super Crosses’ G1 Goldmine, a pedigree software that is used by major breeders to research stallions for their mares, or to research mares for their stallion shares. The product is now used by over 2,400 users in 24 different countries including bloodstock and pedigree consultants such Avalyn Hunter, John Prather, John Sparkman, Niarchos group, Lord Derby. Entry is free but you will need to register to allow for a suitable room and catering as a light lunch or supper will be provided. To register for the seminar, email your name(s) and preferred session to Leo.Tsatsaronis@G1Goldmine.com. ...

Empire Way Sibling Wins Debut

From Lovacres Ranch WARNER SPRINGS, Calif. (Jan. 28, 2015) – Khozan, a debut winner at Gulfstream Park on Saturday, is from the family of California stallion Empire Way. Khozan is a half-brother to three-time Eclipse champion Royal Delta, who is a full brother to Empire Way, as all are out of the multiple-graded stakes winning A.P. Indy mare Delta Princess. Khozan is by Distorted Humor, Royal Delta and Empire Way are by Empire Maker. Empire Way stands at Lovacres Ranch in Warner Springs. ...

Pair Archives Hollywood Park History

By Raceday 360 INGLEWOOD, Calif. (Jan. 29, 2015) — On Friday, January 16, after almost 69 years in operation, Atlantic City Race Course closed its doors. The announcement seemed inevitable after more than a decade of deterioration to the physical plant, despite the track’s successful boutique turf meet that saw increases in both handle and attendance each year. ACRC was the latest casualty of racing’s contraction, following the closure of Suffolk Downs in October after 79 years of racing and of Betfair Hollywood Park in 2013 after it completed its 75th racing season. Three venerable tracks that once played host to the brightest human and equine stars in the sport, venues that were once considered the best of racing, shuttered. How will the history of these tracks be documented? Much of their narrative—from attendance numbers to the story of their declines—can be found in local libraries and racing databases. But what of the untold stories? What of the documents, created over decades by teams of pressbox citizens, photographers and videographers?... ...

‘Chrome Preps for San Antonio

By Bloodhorse.com CYPRESS, Calif. (Jan. 25, 2015) –Horse of the Year California Chrome breezed one mile in 1:41 2/5 at his Los Alamitos Race Course headquarters Jan. 25 as he moves ever closer to his 4-year-old debut in the $500,000 San Antonio Stakes. Under regular rider Victor Espinoza while wearing blinkers on a cleared racetrack, Califonia Chrome clocked through fractions of :25 3/5, :51 flat, 1:03 2/5, 1:15 3/5, and 1:29 for seven furlongs by Los Alamitos head clocker Russ Hudak. “He looked good,” Hudak said. “He came to the wire under a nice hold.” Added Alan Sherman, son of and assistant to his father, trainer Art Sherman: “It was a very good work. I’m really, really happy with him.” California Chrome is zeroing in on the San Antonio Feb. 7 at Santa Anita Park. Breeders’ Cup Classic (gr. I) winner Bayern, meanwhile, has been virtually ruled out of the San Antonio as he is recovering from an abscess on a hind foot. “I had to get a work into... ...

Barretts 2-Year-Old Catalog Online

The catalog for the 26th Annual Barretts Sale of Selected Two-Year-Olds in Training is now on-line at www.barretts.com and will be mailed soon. This auction of 116 two-year-olds will be held on Monday, February 23 in the Hinds Pavilion located on the grounds of Fairplex Park in Pomona, California beginning at 2:00 p.m. The Select Sale catalog is also available for your Ipad. The official training preview is scheduled to be held on Friday, February 20 on the Fairplex Park racetrack adjacent to Barretts, beginning at 10:00 a.m. The preview will be streamed live at http://www.barretts.com/sales/ViewSale/index.asp Video clips for each preview can be viewed on-line by the afternoon following the preview at www.barretts.com. Since its inception, the Barretts March Sale has been the leading producer of top quality race horses west of Kentucky. Among the many Grade One winners are Awesome Gem, Brocco, Brother Derek, Dubai Escapade, Henny Hughes, Honour and Glory, Officer, River’s Prayer, Royal Anthem, Sharp Cat, Squirtle Squirt, Suni (JPN), Testa Matta (JPN), Unbridled’s... ...

Gig Harbor’s First Foal Arrives

From Victory Rose Thoroughbreds VACAVILLE, Calif. (Jan. 25, 2015) — First year stallion Gig Harbor, multiple stakes winning son of City Zip, standing at Victory Rose Thoroughbreds, had his first foal drop on Friday, Jan. 23, 2015 at Victory Rose. This first Gig Harbor colt is also a first foal for the McCann’s Mojave mare Highland Heather and was bred by stallion owner Daniel O’Neill. Gig Harbor won the Alcatraz Stakes at 3 and the Oakland Stakes at 4. He is out of the St. Jovite mare, Miss Blue Grass and a half brother to stakes horses My Lil Shamrock and Alsono. Gig Harbor stands for $1,500 live foal. For additional information please contact Ellen Jackson at Victory Rose Thoroughbreds, (707) 678-6580, or visit www.victoryrose.com. ...

Alert Bay

Alert Bay wins the $250,000 California Cup Turf Classic, presented by City National Bank. ...

Mischief Clem

Mischief Clem wins the $250,000 California Cup Derby. ...

Go West Marie

Go West Marie wins the $150,000 Sunshine Millions Filly & Mare Turf Sprint. ...

Spirit Rules

Spirit Rules wins the $150,000 Donald Valpredo Cal Cup Sprint. ...

Singing Kitty

Singing Kitty wins the $200,000 Xpressbet Cal Cup Oaks. ...

$250,000 Cal Cup Turf Classic – ALERT BAY

ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 24, 2015) – Win machine Alert Bay survived a steward’s inquiry to stretch his win streak to five in Saturday’s roughly run $250,000 California Cup Turf Classic, presented by City National Bank, for Golden State Series eligibles at Santa Anita. Alert Bay is by City Zip, out of the Dushyantor mare Hickory, was bred by Thomas Bell & Ross McLeod, is owned by Peter Redekop, is trained by Blaine Wright and was ridden by Tyler Baze. “We scooted out of a tough one there today,” said Wright. “We could have come down. Tyler thought he had room. He said he knew it was tight, but he thought the other horse was (empty) and he thought we would stay up. Myself, I sweat these things out a little bit. “…Mr. Redekop has put some good horses in my hands, and this horse has taken me to a level where you certainly want to be. I’m very proud to be a part of it.” Alert Bay has eight wins in... ...

$150,000 Donald Valpredo Cal Cup Sprint – SPIRIT RULES

ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 24, 2015) – Spirit Rules, the longest shot in the field, outdueled odds-on favorite San Onofre to win Saturday’s $150,000 Donald Valpredo Cal Cup Sprint Stakes for Golden State Series eligibles at Santa Anita. Spirit Rules is by Tribal Rule, out of the Danzatore mare Heavenly Lady, was bred by John & Allegra Ernst, is owned by Jeanmarc Murphy, Barbara Accardy, Craig Siedler, Jim Xitco and Mark Xitco, is trained by Paul Aguirre and was ridden by Iggy Puglisi. “This Cal-bred program is fantastic,” said Aguirre. “We don’t have a lot of things to hang our hat on these days in horse racing, but the Cal-bred program is really something to be proud of. It’s made this horse have a nice career.” Spirit Rules won by a half length over San Onofre, with Follini finishing third in the field of five. “Just got outrun today,” said Mike Smith, San Onofre’s jockey. “I stumbled a little leaving the gate, which cost me a clear lead, but if I’d... ...

$150,000 Sunshine Millions F&M Turf Sprint – GO WEST MARIE

ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 24, 2015) – Go West Marie rallied along the rail to win Saturday’s $150,000 Sunshine Millions Filly & Mare Turf Sprint for Golden State Series eligible fillies and mares at Santa Anita. 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, trained by Eddie Truman and was ridden by Gary Stevens. “A great trip,” said Stevens. “Eddie’s done a great job with this filly and I got on her at the right time. I learned a lot about her. I asked him if I could just sit on her and be quiet with her. It worked out well. She exploded with me the last eighth, and I rode her the same way today even though we were shortening up and there was so much speed. The key with a filly like this is they’re professional–let them settle and they’re going to finish for you.” She has five wins in 17 starts,... ...

$250,000 Cal Cup Derby – MISCHIEF CLEM

ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 24, 2015) – Longshot Mischief Clem got the head bob over Pulmarack to win Saturday’s $250,000 California Cup Derby for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-olds at Santa Anita, a race won last year by Horse of the Year California Chrome. Mischief Clem is by Papa Clem, out of the Bold Badgett mare Glitteringmischief, was bred by SLU Inc., is owned by Griffin Thoroughbreds, is trained by Robert Hess Jr. and was ridden by Kent Desormeaux. “Today he was finally able to put everything together and I was able to ride him off my finger tips and he was just the consummate professional and he got a picture taken,” said Desormeaux. Mischief Clem has three wins in six starts, earnings of $266,380 and was coming off a fourth in the Dec. 14 King Glorious Stakes. Mischief Clem was a $22,000 Barretts purchase. “If we think open company, it would be on the synthetic in Mark at Turfway ($550,000 Spiral Stakes Mar. 21),” Hess said of Mischief Clem’s future... ...

$200,000 Cal Cup Oaks – SINGING KITTY

ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 24, 2015) – Recent claim Singing Kitty caught favorite Heat the Rocks at the top of the lane and went on to win Saturday’s $200,000 Xpressbet California Cup Oaks for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-old fillies at Santa Anita. Singing Kitty is by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Unbridled’s Son mare Natural Singer R N, was bred by Tommy Town Thoroughbreds, is owned by Chris Aulds, Peter Jeong and Brandon Hillman, is trained by Matthew Chew and was ridden by Aaron Gryder. She has three wins in seven starts, earnings of $175,438 and was coming off a seventh in the Jan. 1 Blue Norther. Singing Kitty was claimed for $32,000 Dec. 11. “She was brought to my attention by a friend of mine who suggested I take a look at her and I brought it up to the owners and we all agreed to take a shot,” said Chew. “We threw her into the Blue Norther to see how she would handle the turf and the... ...

Bodhisattva Entered in Whiteley

LAUREL, Md. (Jan. 25, 2015) – Bodhisattva is the lone California-bred entered in Thursday’s $100,000 Frank Whiteley Jr. Stakes for 3-year-olds at Laurel Park. Bodhisattva is by Student Council, out of the Talk Is Money mare Dr. Cheryl P., was bred by Andy Stronach and is owned by trainer Jose Corrales. He has two wins in seven starts, earnings of $73,095 and is coming off a Dec. 18 optional claiming win. ...

‘Chrome is California’s Ambassador

By DRF.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 23, 2015) — The horse with the ideal name has become the perfect ambassador for California Thoroughbred breeding. When the immensely popular California Chrome was named 2014 Horse of the Year on Jan. 17, he gave California breeding a much-needed boost in recognition after several years of declining foal crops in one of the nation’s most important racing regions. As California Chrome nears his first scheduled start of 2015, in the $500,000 San Antonio Stakes at Santa Anita on Feb. 7, racetrack executives and leading breeders in the state are hoping that public awareness of the colt will lead to greater interest in horse racing in general and a higher investment in owning and breeding Thoroughbreds. “You know where he’s from when you see his name,” said Doug Burge, the executive director of the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association. “We’ve been trying to capitalize on his success all year. The Horse of the Year title has been an exclamation point.” Burge has worked for the CTBA... ...

CHRB Meeting Date Change

From CHRB ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 23, 2015) — The date for the next meeting of the California Horse Racing Board, originally scheduled for Thursday, February 19, has been changed to Wednesday, February 18. The meeting location remains at Santa Anita Park. An agenda for this meeting, including its starting time, will be posted on the CHRB website no later than February 8. ...

Indian Evening’s First Foal Arrives

From Victory Rose Thoroughbreds VACAVILLE, Calif. (Jan. 21, 2015)- First-year stallion Indian Evening, a stakes winning son of Indian Charlie standing at Victory Rose Thoroughbreds, had his first foal drop on January 21 at Victory Rose. The Indian Evening filly is also the first foal out of the Pure Prize mare No Better Terms and was bred by Kevin and Kim Nish, KMN Racing. Indian Evening, who won the Swynford Stakes at 2, followed that up with a placing in the Three Chimneys Saratoga Special Stakes Grade III to Union Rags. He is out of the Unbridled Song mare Unenchantedevening and is from the precocious family of juvenile champion Favorite Trick. Indian Evening stands for $3,000, live foal as the property of a partnership. For additional information please contact Ellen Jackson Victory Rose Thoroughbreds (707) 678-6580 or visit www.victoryrose.com. ...

California Chrome Follows Tiznow

By Jay Hovdey, DRF.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 21, 2015) — Imagine his surprise the other night when Jay Robbins was sitting at home in Carlsbad, Calif., not far from Del Mar, innocently enjoying the broadcast of the Eclipse Awards on HRTV and getting a kick out of California Chrome being named 2014 Horse of the Year. As the Chrome crew made its way to the stage to accept the golden trophy, led by trainer Art Sherman and co-owner Steve Coburn, Robbins heard broadcast announcer Larry Collmus introduce the newly crowned champion as “the first-ever California-bred to win the Eclipse Award for Horse of the Year.” How soon they forget. Tiznow, trained by Robbins to a Horse of the Year title in 2000, not only was the first California-bred Horse of the Year during the era of the Eclipse Awards, he was bred, foaled, and raised at Harris Farms in the Central Valley – the same Harris Farms where California Chrome hit the ground running. Such slights are to be expected.... ...

Ultimate Eagle’s First Foal Arrives

From Special T Thoroughbreds TEMECULA, Calif. (Jan. 22, 2015) – The first foal of California stallion Ultimate Eagle was born Saturday, Jan. 17, at Special T Thoroughbreds. The foal is out of the Tropical Storm mare Storm Birdy. Jane Braugh is the breeder and owner of the bay filly, who is a half-sister to stakes-placed Stormy Adieu. ...

Deadline to Name Foals is Feb. 1

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Jan. 22, 2015) — The Jockey Club reminds owners and breeders that a valid attempt to name foals of 2013 must be made by Feb. 1, 2015, to avoid a $100 late fee. In December, The Jockey Club published a list of more than 46,000 names released from active use. This list is sortable by letter and available on registry.jockeyclub.com and mobile.registry.jockeyclub.com to help customers with name selections for claiming and reserving names. A majority of the released names are from horses more than 10 years old that have not raced or been used for breeding during the preceding five years. Names selected from the list for re-use are subject to approval by The Jockey Club. Names selections can be submitted to The Jockey Club from the registry website or can be submitted via iOS and Android mobile applications. The Naming Application is available for download free of charge and provides a fast and convenient way to reserve, change, or claim a name. “You... ...

California Chrome

California Chrome works seven furlongs at Los Alamitos Jan. 19, 2015 ...

Cal Cup Turf Classic Draws Alert Bay

By DRF.com Click here for Past Performances ARCADIA, Calif. – Alert Bay was the best California-bred 3-year-old in 2014 who did not win the Eclipse Award for Horse of the Year. In 2014, Alert Bay started the year as a maiden and finished as a five-time stakes winner. That record will make him the favorite in Saturday’s $250,000 California Cup Turf Classic at Santa Anita, a race that does not include Horse of the Year California Chrome. Alert Bay is part of a field of 12 in the 1 1/8-mile Cal Cup Turf Classic. “This race has been a target for a while,” trainer Blaine Wright said on Thursday. The Turf Classic is the fifth and final stakes for California-breds on a 10-race California Cup program that begins at noon Pacific. :: CALIFORNIA CUP: Get PPs, watch Saturday’s Santa Anita card live Earlier in the day, there are eight 3-year-olds in the $250,000 California Cup Derby, a race California Chrome won in 2014. The other stakes are the $200,000 California... ...

Big Macher Scratches from Sprint

By DRF.com Click here for Past Performances ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 23, 2015) –Disillusioned by drawing the No. One post position, trainer Richard Baltas scratched likely favorite Big Macher from Saturday’s $150,000 California Cup Sprint and will point the California-bred son of Beau Genius to next Saturday’s Grade II Palos Verdes Stakes instead. With the scratch, San Onofre inherits the inside post position, as well as the role of morning-line favorite. :: CALIFORNIA CUP: Get PPs, watch Saturday’s Santa Anita card live California Cup Sprint (race 8) Key contenders San Onofre (Last 3 Beyers: 97-99-99) * San Onofre has not raced since last February, when he won an optional claimer at 6 1/2 furlongs for his fourth consecutive win. The California Cup Sprint will be San Onofre’s stakes debut. * Mike Smith, who has ridden the gelding during the win streak, has the mount. San Onofre is quick and certainly can lead but has shown the ability to race from slightly off the pace. “He’s so versatile,” trainer Karen Headley said. “He can go... ...

Acceptance Risks Perfect Record

By DRF.com Click here for Past Performances ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 23, 2015) – The unbeaten 3-year-old Acceptance will try to stay perfect Saturday at Santa Anita, where his chance to win the $250,000 California Cup Derby hinges partly on the status of a key rival. Tough Sunday scored a highly rated maiden win last out, but a bruised left front foot forced trainer Steve Miyadi to work the colt without shoes Wednesday. His participation in the 1 1/16-mile derby, race 6, will be a race-day decision. Win or lose, Tough Sunday is a key player. From the rail post, stretching out to a route, Tough Sunday likely would set the pace. Acceptance drew post 2. :: CALIFORNIA CUP: Get PPs, watch Saturday’s Santa Anita card live Tough Sunday’s barefoot work Wednesday went in 1:00.60 for five furlongs. “His shoes were bugging him,” Miyadi said. “We’ll see how he is with the shoes on; that will be day of race.” DRF FORMULATOR FACT: No. 2 Acceptance. Trainer Don Warren is 43-2-7-4 with... ...

Velvet Mesquite in Tough F&M Turf Sprint

From Santa Anita Publicity Click here for Past Performances ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 19, 2015) – Stakes winner Velvet Mesquite returns once again to the surface she has clearly excelled over on Saturday. Velvet Mesquite will take on 13 rivals in the Sunshine Millions Cal Cup Day’s edition of the Sunshine Millions Filly and Mare Turf Sprint at 6 ½ furlongs down Santa Anita’s unique hillside turf course for Golden State Seres eligibles. Owned and bred by Harris Farms and trained by Blake Heap, the 5 year-old mare was a strong third in the Gr. II Monrovia down the hillside in her last out Jan. 4. A staggering five for seven when running over the course, Velvet Mesquite will seek her second stakes win Saturday. By In Excess out of the Huddle Up mare Mesquite, Velvet Mesquite is 11-5-2-1 overall with earnings of $284,606. A hillside professional in her own right, Carla Gaines’ Heat Trap comes off a second place finish in the Gr. II Monrovia. Owned and bred by Mark... ...

Heat the Rocks Seeks Cal Cup Oaks Win

By DRF.com Click here for Past Performances ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 23, 2015) — He trains them. He owns them. And, sometimes, he even breeds them. Jerry Hollendorfer is a triple threat, best exemplified by Heat the Rocks, one of two fillies he will send out Saturday in the $200,000 California Cup Oaks at Santa Anita. The Cal Cup Oaks, at one mile on turf, drew a field of eight 3-year-old fillies, with half the runners attempting turf for the first time. Included in that quartet is Hollendorfer’s duo of Heat the Rocks and Light One, both of whom figure to be strongly backed in the wagering. By Unusual Heat, Heat the Rocks comes off a second-place finish in the one-mile Soviet Problem for statebreds at Los Alamitos, her first start beyond a sprint. Hollendorfer, who bred Heat the Rocks in a partnership, said her pedigree is a reason he wants to try her on turf. DRF FORMULATOR FACT: No. 4 Heat the Rocks. Trainer Jerry Hollendorfer is 25-2-4-4 with a... ...

Fairplex Training, Stabling Ends Feb. 15

By Paulick Report POMONA, Calif. (Jan. 19, 2015) — Fairplex Park in Pomona, Ca. will close for training and stabling Feb. 15 after ceasing racing operations last year. In turn, Galway Downs Training Center in Temecula, Ca. will open for auxiliary training sometime before Fairplex closing in order to accommodate some horses leaving Fairplex. A notice to horsemen Friday said that all horses must be off the grounds by Thursday, Feb. 19, and that no vans would be allowed on the backside the following day. At their latest meeting, the California Horse Racing Board approved a request from Galway Downs to become an authorized training center. The facility can accept up to 400 horses under the Vanning and Stabling Program. The Fairplex facility will host the Barretts 2-year-olds in training sale Feb. 23, with a preview show set for Feb. 20. The sale will be the last Barretts auction conducted in Pomona; the operation will then move south to Del Mar. ...

NTRA Legislative Briefing Saturday

From NTRA ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 19, 2015) – The National Thoroughbred Racing Association will hold a legislative briefing on Cal Cup Saturday, Jan. 24, at Santa Anita, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the Baldwin Conference Room. NTRA president and CEO Alex Waldrop and NTRA lobbyist Greg Means of The Alpine Group will provide the latest news from Capitol Hill on federal legislation that will impact horse racing and the breeding industry. The Baldwin Conference Room is located on the third level of the grandstand above Clocker’s Corner. RSVP to Barbara Fossum at bfossum@ntra.com. CTBA is a co-sponsor of the event. ...

Acceptance’s Roots Run Deep

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 18, 2015) — It’s a little early to proclaim a Cinderella story in the making, but Old English Rancho does seem to have a nice colt in its homebred Acceptance. Racing for the partnership of Old English owners E.W. “Bud” and Judy Johnston and Robert Riggio, Acceptance kept his unbeaten record intact with a professional score Dec. 14 in the King Glorious Stakes at Los Alamitos. If “King Glorious Stakes” has a familiar ring, it should. Last year’s edition, the final one held at Hollywood Park, was the coming-out party for the partnership of California Chrome and jockey Victor Espinoza and the launching pad for some California dreaming come true. Acceptance still has a lot to prove before anyone mistakes him for a second California Chrome. His story would be a very different one anyway, for unlike Chrome’s neophyte owner/breeders, Old English Rancho has been around for decades. Acceptance’s roots go deep into Old English Rancho’s history, for the farm has developed the family that... ...

‘Chrome in Monday Maintenance Drill

From Santa Anita Publicity CYPRESS, Calif. (Jan. 19, 2015) –Horse of the Year California Chrome–has a nice ring to it, doesn’t it?–drew ever closer to his 4-year-old debut in the $500,000 San Antonio Stakes at Santa Anita on Feb. 7 when he worked seven furlongs at his Los Alamitos base Monday morning in 1:27 2/5 under regular rider Victor Espinoza. “He went easy and galloped out strong,” said Alan Sherman, son of and assistant to trainer Art Sherman. With California Chrome wearing blinkers and running on a cleared track, Los Alamitos head clocker Russ Hudak recorded fractional times of 25 1/5, 50 3/5 and 1:02 2/5, with a time of 1:14 1/5 for six furlongs at the wire. “They let him run through the lane,” Hudak said. Added Sherman: “We’re real happy with the work. He’ll breeze again next Sunday.” ...

Art Sherman Flying High

By DRF.com HALLANDALE BEACH, Fla. (Jan. 18, 2015) – Art Sherman had an early morning flight Sunday to head back to California, but he probably didn’t need the plane, so high was he emotionally after his colt California Chrome was named Horse of the Year and champion 3-year-old male Saturday night at the 44th annual Eclipse Awards dinner at Gulfstream Park. “When they said Horse of the Year, I said, ‘Wow,’ ” Sherman said. Sherman was instrumental in California Chrome getting both titles. After his loss in the Breeders’ Cup Classic to Bayern, California Chrome had a resume that included victories in the Kentucky Derby, Preakness, and Santa Anita Derby, but he was winless since mid-May. Sherman initially thought California Chrome was done for the year, but he was so impressed with the way California Chrome came out of the Classic that he trusted his instincts and rolled the dice by running California Chrome on turf for the first time in the Hollywood Derby at Del Mar four weeks later. California... ...

Richard’s Kid’s First Foal Arrives

From Magali Farms SANTA YNEZ, Calif. (Jan. 17, 2015) – California stallion Richard’s Kid’s first foal arrived Jan. 8 at Magali Farms. The filly is out of the Slewdledo mare Hope I Do. ...

California Chrome Horse of the Year

By Bloodhorse.com HALLANDALE, Fla. (Jan. 17, 2015) — California Chrome, a colt who was running against his fellow California-breds at the beginning of the season, soared through his conditions and emerged Horse of the Year as the annual Eclipse Awards were presented Jan. 17 at Gulfstream Park in Hallandale Beach, Fla. The brilliant chestnut son of $2,500 stallion Lucky Pulpit ran a six-race win streak for trainer Art Sherman from Jan. 25—when he rolled by 5 1/2 lengths in the California Cup Derby—to May 17 when he aced the Preakness Stakes (gr. I) after taking the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) off victories in the Santa Anita Derby (gr. I) and San Felipe Stakes (gr. II). He is the first 3-year-old to win Horse of the Year honors since Curlin in 2007 and is the first Kentucky Derby winner to be named Horse of the Year since Charismatic in 1999. Earlier in the evening, he was named champion 3-year-old male. HASKIN: California Chrome is Champion 3YO Male... ...

Fans Side with California Chrome

By Bloodhorse.com HALLANDALE, Fla. (Jan. 17, 2014) — Dual classic winner California Chrome would be a slam dunk for the Eclipse Award Horse of the Year title if the fans seated on the apron and around the paddock at Gulfstream Park Racing & Casino had a vote. But it comes with an important caveat. At least half of the two dozen fans questioned, in what can only be described as the most casual of polls, didn’t know who Bayern was and had not watched any of the Breeders’ Cup World Championships last fall. Bayern beat California Chrome in the Breeders’ Cup Classic (gr. I). California Chrome, Bayern, and Main Sequence (winner of the Breeders’ Cup Turf, gr. IT) are the finalists for Horse of the Year, which will be named at the Eclipse Awards ceremony Jan. 17. “Gulfstream Park is racing for us; this is what we like to do when we come down here,” said Leigh Taylor of Charlotte, N.C. “I would pick California Chrome because I like his... ...

‘Chrome Top 3-Year-Old Male

By Bloodhorse.com HALLANDALE, Fla. — Eclipse Award voters did not have an easy time of it in 2014. In most years, they do not have to give much thought to who they are going to vote for in the 3-year-old male division, as it is pretty clear-cut. Not so last season. To give an example of how unusually deep the crop was, 3-year-olds won an amazing five grade I stakes against older horses, and that was done by four different runners (Shared Belief, Bayern, Tonalist, and Hoppertunity). Together they captured the Breeders’ Cup Classic, Jockey Club Gold Cup, Pacific Classic, Awesome Again Stakes, and Clark Handicap. Missing from this list of 3-year-olds was the champion himself, California Chrome, which pretty much tells you all you need to know regarding the impact this brilliant California-bred made on the Triple Crown and the sport in general. After receiving honors as the top 3-year-old in the nation Jan. 17 during the Eclipse Awards ceremony in Hallandale Beach, Fla., later in the evening... ...

Hip Four Sixtynine Wins at Delta Downs

VINTON, La. (Jan. 17, 2015) – Hip Four Sixtynine, a Kentucky-bred son of California stallion Southern Image, won Saturday’s $70,000 Fremont Stakes at Delta Downs. Hip Four Sixtynine is out of the Mt. Livermore mare Gentle Wave. He ran the mile in 1:38.95 and won by 3 ½ lengths at odds of 7-2. He has six wins in 22 starts and earnings of $238,827. ...

CHRB Meeting Summary

From CHRB ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 16, 2015) – The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Thursday, January 15, at Santa Anita Park. Chairman Chuck Winner presided. 1st Vice Chair Bo Derek, 2nd Vice Chair Richard Rosenberg and Commissioners Madeline Auerbach, Steve Beneto, Jesse Choper and George Krikorian 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 a request from Galway Downs Training Center in Temecula to become an authorized training center, subject to conditions that must be satisfied before the facility begins accepting up to 400 horses under the Vanning and Stabling Program. This facility will open for auxiliary training prior to the closure of stabling operations at Fairplex Park, planned for February. The California Marketing Committee reported that despite steep reductions in revenue resulting from declines in handle, which have forced reductions in some of its other marketing programs, the CMC will boost funding for “product enhancement,” most significantly in... ...

Harlington’s Rose Back for Santa Monica

ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 16, 2015) – Stakes winner Harlington’s Rose and fellow California-breds Dancinthenightaway and Sweet Marini are entered in Monday’s $200,000 Grade II Santa Monica 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 Thomas Halasz, Ryan Johnson, Paul Newhart, Martha Miller, et al and is trained by Steve Knapp. She has three wins in 18 starts, earnings of $277,680 and is coming off a win in the Dec. 28 Kalookan Queen. Dancinthenightaway is by Indian Charlie, out of the General Meeting mare Last Dance for Me, was bred by owners Al and Saundra Kirkwood and is trained by Mark Glatt. She is unbeaten in four starts with earnings of $123,720 and is coming off a win in a Dec. 27 optional claimer. Sweet Marini is by Marino Marini, out of the In Excess mare Excessing, was bred by BMWZ Stables, is owned by Kaleem Shaw and... ...

Cal-Bred Pair in El Paso Times

SUNLAND PARK, N.M. (Jan. 19, 2015) – California-breds Urgraceisenough and Wackett are entered in Sunday’s $50,000 El Paso Times Handicap for fillies and mares at Sunland Park. Urgraceisenough is by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Lord Carson mare You Life Me Up, was bred by owner Tommy Town Thoroughbreds and is trained by Johnny Nall. She has one win in six starts, earnings of $11,605 and is coming off a fourth in a Nov. 22 allowance. Wackett is by Bushwacker, out of the Half Term mare Spring Term, was bred by Terry Lovingier, is owned by Jeff and Sally Bustamante and is trained by Jeff Bustamante. She has one win in eight starts, earnings of $15,755 and is coming off a sixth in an Oc. 23 claimer. ...

Barretts Supplemental Catalog Online

From Barretts POMONA, Calif. (Jan. 16, 2015) — The supplemental catalog of 37 horses, consisting of 22 horses of racing age, 10 broodmare/broodmare prospects, 2 yearlings and 3 two-year-olds, for the 2015 Barretts January Mixed Sale is now on-line and can be viewed within the entire sortable catalog available at: http://www.barretts.com/sales/Catalogs/catjan2015/catalogTABLE.asp These horses will be automatically added to the Jockey Club Ipad catalog ap. The January Sale will be held on Monday, January 26 in the Hinds Pavilion located on the grounds of Fairplex Park in Pomona, California beginning at 11:00 a.m. Printed supplemental catalogs will be available on the sales ground only, but the catalog pages are available in PDF format here. ...

‘Chrome’s Derby Moment of the Year

By DRF.com LEXINGTON, Ky. (Jan. 16, 2015) — Respondents to an online poll conducted by the National Thoroughbred Racing Association overwhelmingly tabbed California Chrome’s Kentucky Derby win last year as the “Moment of the Year,” according to a release from the NTRA. Of the approximate 2,000 voters, 30.5 percent chose the Derby as the “Moment of the Year,” outpolling Wise Dan’s win in the Bernard Baruch at Saratoga in the two-time Horse of the Year’s first start after emergency colic surgery, which received 20.1 percent of the vote. The NTRA allowed voting on 10 specific moments. California Chrome, who is being pointed to the San Antonio Handicap at Santa Anita on Feb. 7, was one of the most popular horses to compete in the Triple Crown in a decade. He won the 2014 Derby as the 5-2 favorite, extending his winning streak to five races. In third place was Tom Durkin’s final race call and emotional farewell ceremony in the Saratoga winner’s circle on Aug. 31. The nominee received 17.5... ...

Galway Downs Stables Approved

By DRF.com TEMECULA, Calif. (Jan. 15, 2015) — Galway Downs in Temecula, Calif., was approved as an auxiliary stabling venue to replace Fairplex Park, which is closing in February. Joe Morris of the TOC and Alan Balch of the California Thoroughbred Trainers association told the racing board that up to 400 horses can be accommodated at Galway Downs, but that considerably fewer are expected to be based there in coming months. Most horses in training in Southern California are based at Los Alamitos, Santa Anita, and the San Luis Rey Downs training center in northern San Diego County. Those four venues will give Southern California racing capacity for 3,400 to 3,500 horses. The Galway Downs license approval was contingent on the completion of several technical issues, such as receiving clearance from local fire officials, emergency protocols, and completing security arrangements. The facility is expected to open by Feb. 4. Fairplex Park will close for year-round stabling next month, but will continue to operate as an off-track betting site. Fairplex Park... ...

Ship-and-Win Program Expands

By DRF.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 15, 2015) – An incentive program designed to entice owners to acquire horses from other states or countries and race in Southern California is being expanded from two race meetings at Del Mar to the entire circuit in April, the California Horse Racing Board was told on Thursday. Beginning April 2, horses other than first-time starters will be eligible for a 30 percent bonus of purses earned in overnight races in their first starts at Del Mar, Los Alamitos, or Santa Anita if they have not raced in California in the preceding 12 months. All runners who have not raced in California in the last 12 months, except for first-time starters, will receive a $1,000 appearance fee for their first starts at those tracks. Known as the “Ship and Win” program, the incentives have proven a useful way to attract runners to California in recent summers. In 2011, 107 horses from outside of California were eligible for the bonuses at the Del Mar summer meeting, a... ...

HRTV to Televise Eclipse Awards

By Bloodhorse.com HALLANDALE, Fla. (Jan. 15, 2015) — HRTV will again provide live coverage of the Eclipse Awards ceremony Jan. 17, organizers announced Jan. 14. The event-day television coverage of the Eclipse Awards, to be held at Gulfstream Park in Hallandale Beach, Fla., will air from 8-11 p.m. EST. Live coverage of the ceremony will also be available via HRTV.com, Racetrack Television Network, and DRF.com. Jeannine Edwards of ESPN will again host the ceremony. The crowning point of the evening will be the announcement of Horse of the Year, with Bayern, California Chrome, and Main Sequence as the three finalists. HRTV will conduct guest interviews with personalities who figure prominently in the big night during its day-long Saturday racing coverage. Read more on BloodHorse.com: http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/89601/hrtv-to-again-broadcast-eclipse-awards-live#ixzz3Ouqd0tix ...

Mr Napper Tandy Passes

From Connections of Mr Napper Tandy Another Beautiful Champion – gone too soon! Mr Napper Tandy (GB), known for his “gutty” $300,000 San Francisco Mile Stakes win, suddenly and unexpectedly left us on Dec. 16, 2014. ...

California Impact at Keeneland

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Jan. 14, 2015) – Two mares with California ties sold for $100,000 each in Tuesday’s session of the Keeneland January Breeding Stock Sale. Kentucky-bred Winning Image, a multiple stakes-winning daughter of California stallion Southern Image, sold as a broodmare prospect. The 8-year-old, out of the California-bred Apollo mare Harvest Girl, was consigned by Four Star Sales, agent, and purchased by Calumet. She earned $729,237 on the track. California-bred May Fine was unplaced in one start, but she is a full sister to Grade I winner Romance Is Diane and she sold in foal to Candy Ride. The 4-year-old is by In Excess, out of the mare Romantic Fibs, was consigned by Mulholland Springs, agent, and was purchased by Berkey Bloodstock. ...

BetAmerica Sponsors CTBA Awards Dinner

From BetAmerica SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. (Jan. 14, 2015) — BetAmerica today announces that it has agreed to be the presenting sponsor for the 2014 California Thoroughbred Breeders Association Annual Awards Dinner, to be held at the Westin at Pasadena on Monday, February 9, 2015. Every year the CTBA names California-bred champions in nine categories, including the prestigious Horse of the Year. As feted as Points Offthebench was last year, it’s expected that California Chrome will be named Champion Three-Year-Old and will be the frontrunner for Horse of the Year. Hall of Fame inductions, as well as Trainer of the Year, Leading Breeder and five categories of Leading Stallion awards will also be included in the night’s honors. “2014 was the year we launched in California and, after a successful first year, we are delighted to be able to support this event which honors California breeders” said John Ford, CEO of BAM Software and Services, which powers BetAmerica. “We are delighted to have BetAmerica as a sponsor of this premier event... ...

CHRB Meeting Advisory

From CHRB ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 13, 2015) — The California Horse Racing Board will conduct its regular monthly meeting this Thursday, January 15, in the Baldwin Terrace Room at Santa Anita Park beginning at 9:30 a.m. The Medication and Track Safety Committee will hold a meeting in the same location on Wednesday, January 14, beginning at 1:30 p.m. The public is encouraged to attend both meetings. An audio-only webcast of the Board meeting can be heard through a link on the CHRB website (webcast). The Board agenda / committee agenda and supporting Board package / committee package of materials also are available on the website. ...

Warren’s Veneda

Warren’s Veneda wins $75,000 Paseana Stakes. ...

Warren’s Veneda Romps in Paseana

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 11, 2015)–Warren’s Veneda shot through an opening at the rail turning for home and went on to a 5 ½ length in Sunday’s $75,000 Paseana Stakes at Santa Anita, as she covered a mile and a sixteenth on a wet fast track in 1:42.97 under Tyler Baze. Trained by Craig Lewis, the 5-year-old California-bred mare avenged a head defeat to Tiz Midnight on Dec. 6 in the Grade II Bayakoa Stakes at Los Alamitos. (Tiz Midnight, who was off at 3-5, ended up sixth in the field of seven older fillies and mares). “This mare is really handy,” said Lewis, who sent her out to her sixth win from 20 starts. “Tyler told me that he wanted to lay a little closer to the pace today, and I thought maybe she should be further back. He told me when he cut her loose, it was over. She’s feeling good right now and she’s just a hard-trying mare.” Owned by her breeder, Benjamin Warren,... ...

Team ‘Chrome Honored at Santa Anita

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 10, 2015)–Less than four hours after superstar California Chrome worked six furlongs in 1:11.60 at Los Alamitos, his connections were on-hand at Santa Anita to participate in a poster signing as anticipation builds for “Chrome’s” 4-year-old debut in the Grade II, $500,000 San Antonio Stakes at Santa Anita on Feb. 7. With several hundred fans seeking autographs from owners Steve Coburn and Perry Martin, along with trainer Art Sherman and regular exercise rider Willie Delgado, hope is building that the San Antonio will provide a platform for an epic three-horse confrontation that would include California Chrome, Bayern and Shared Belief. “I thought his work this morning was outstanding,” said Sherman. “He galloped out strong and he looked pretty strong to me. He’s been training great. We’re lookin’ to run in the San Antonio and waiting to run against Shared Belief. I don’t know if Bayern will be there but I hope he will be. Let ‘em come, bring ‘em on.” When last they... ...

Game Plan Passes at 22

From E.A. Ranches RAMONA, Calif. (Jan. 10, 2015) — Game Plan, by five-time champion sire Danzig, was humanely put to sleep at E.A. Ranches after he was found recumbent in his pasture on the morning of January 7. He was 22 years old. “He was such a magnificent, classy horse and always acted half his age,” said Marguerite Eliasson, General Manager of E.A. Ranches, where Game Plan resided during the past 10 years. “He was the Grand Master in the stallion barn, commanding respect from everybody. He will be sorely missed by all who cared for him.” Game Plan has sired 24 stakes winners and 27 stakes horses to date, including 7 graded stakes performers led by Grade-1 winner Mistical Plan. Three more crops, including two-year-olds of 2015, will be coming to the track. Owned by a syndicate, Game Plan began his stud career in Washington, then was moved to California where he established himself quickly among the top stallions in several categories. In 2005 Game Plan took residence at... ...

Blood-Horse en Espanol Launched

By Bloodhorse.com The Blood-Horse expanded its international reach Jan. 9 with the launch of a digital-only Spanish language edition called Blood-Horse en Español. The first translated edition is the Jan. 3, 2015, issue of the weekly magazine. Handling the distribution and translation of the Thoroughbred racing industry’s leading magazine is XY Jett, a subsidiary of G S Inversiones Hipicas, which is owned by Ivan Rodriguez Gelfenstein. “Blood-Horse en Español is something that it has been in my mind for a long time,” said Gelfenstein, an international businessman who divides his time between his native Venezuela and South Florida. “It has been an inquietude as a Latino and a horse racing lover to not have in our language the kind of information that The Blood-Horse offers. From today, millions of fans in Latin America, the Caribbean, and Spain will be able to have access to the most complete magazine in a digital format. In there they will be able to find information about breeding, sales, events, statistics, and many other activities... ...

Warren’s Veneda in Paseana

ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 8, 2015) – Warren’s Veneda is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $75,000 Paseana 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 five wins in 19 starts, earnings of $407,012 and is coming off a second in the Dec. 6 Bayakoa. ...

Cal Cup, Sunshine Millions Noms Due Sat.

ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 8, 2015) – Nominations close this Saturday, Jan. 10, for the five stakes on the card for California Cup and Sunshine Millions, to be held at Santa Anita on Saturday, Jan. 24 for horses bred or sired in California. The stakes to be run: $150,000 Donald Valpredo California Cup Sprint, Four Year Olds and Upward, Six Furlongs. $150,000 Sunshine Millions Filly and Mare Turf Sprint, Fillies And Mares, Four Year Olds and Upward, About Six And One Half Furlongs (Hillside Turf Course). $200,000 California Cup Oaks, Fillies Three Year Olds, One Mile (Turf). $250,000 California Cup Turf Classic, Four Year Olds and Upward, One Mile And One Eighth (Turf). $250,000 California Cup Derby, Three Year Olds, One Mile And One Sixteenth. ...

‘Chrome Among Eclipse Finalists

By Bloodhorse.com HALLANDALE BEACH, Fla. (Jan. 7, 2015) — Finalists for the 44th annual Eclipse Awards were announced Jan. 7 on HRTV by the National Thoroughbred Racing Association, Daily Racing Form, and the National Turf Writers and Broadcasters. Of the 280 eligible voters, 265 sent in their ballots, nearly 95%. The awards will be presented Jan. 17 at Gulfstream Park Racing and Casino in Hallandale Beach, Fla. The event begins at 6 p.m. Jeannine Edwards, sports broadcaster for ESPN and ABC, will host for the fourth time. Here are the three finalists in each category, listed alphabetically: Horse of the Year: Bayern, California Chrome, Main Sequence 2-year-old Male: American Pharoah, Hootenanny, Texas Red 2-year-old Filly: Condo Commando, Lady Eli, Take Charge Brandi 3-year-old Male: Bayern, California Chrome, Shared Belief 3-year-old Filly: Stopchargingmaria, Sweet Reason, Untapable Older Male: Main Sequence, Palace Malice, Wise Dan Older Female: Close Hatches, Dayatthespa, Don’t Tell Sophia Turf Male: Karakontie, Main Sequence, Wise Dan Turf Female: Crown Queen, Dayatthespa, Stephanie’s Kitten Sprint Male: Goldencents , Private Zone,... ...

Progress Continues on Del Mar Track

By DRF.com DEL MAR, Calif. (Jan. 6, 2015) – Del Mar continues its progress toward the installation of a dirt main track, president Joe Harper said Sunday. Harper said the Polytrack synthetic surface should be fully removed by early February, with the installation of the new dirt surface set to be completed by April. The new track will be used for the first time for training in advance of the Barretts May sale of 2-year-olds on May 27. A training preview of sale horses is scheduled for May 25. Barretts will not conduct sales at its Pomona location after February. The new surface at Del Mar will be used for the first time in races in July. The dirt being used at Del Mar is similar to what is in place at Santa Anita, and it is being stored in Oceanside, Calif., Harper said. “The dirt has been screened and is ready,” Harper said. ◗ Trainer Richard Baltas and jockey Martin Pedroza were each fined $250 by track stewards last weekend... ...

Hollywood Park Site for NFL Again?

By DRF.com INGELWOOD, Calif. (Jan. 5, 2015) — The old home of Hollywood Park racetrack might be the new home of an NFL team as early as 2016. Stan Kroenke, the owner of the St. Louis Rams, and Stockbridge Capital Group, which owns the 238-acre site of the former racetrack, have reached an agreement to build an NFL stadium, according to a report in the Los Angeles Times on Monday. Kroenke owns 60 acres that once were the racetrack’s parking lot. Stockbridge would add to the project with land formerly used for the racetrack. The proposal is the latest in a two-decade push by various parties, including former Hollywood Park owner R.D. Hubbard, to build an NFL stadium in the Los Angeles area. Hubbard was in talks with the Oakland Raiders in 1995 to move the team to Hollywood Park, discussions that eventually fell apart. Various other sites around the Los Angeles area have been mentioned as venues for a stadium. The league has not had a presence in the... ...

Big Macher Prepares for Cal Cup

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 5, 2015) — Big Macher, winner of the Grade I Bing Crosby Stakes at Del Mar last July, worked five furlongs Sunday morning in a bullet 59 seconds flat as he prepares for the $150,000 California Cup Sprint at six furlongs on Jan. 24. With Rafael Bejarano aboard, the California-bred son of Beau Genius worked in company with Black Betsy, who was timed in 49.60 for four furlongs, but Baltas got her in 59 3/5 for five furlongs. “He went off in 24 4/5, but the gallop out is what was impressive,” Baltas said of Big Macher, claimed for $20,000 by Baltas in 2013. “He galloped out six furlongs in 1:11 4/5 and (seven furlongs) in 1:25 3/5.” ...

Tough Sunday Really is Tough

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 4, 2015) — Tough Sunday defied the odds of a difficult birth and multiple serious health issues as a youngster to finally become a winning racehorse Dec. 28 at Santa Anita Park. A 3-year-old California-bred by Grazen trained by Steve Miyadi for owner/breeder Nick Alexander, Tough Sunday broke his maiden in fine style in his third career start, scoring in the second race by an emphatic 6 1/4 lengths. It’s not only amazing that Tough Sunday made it to the races, it’s a miracle the colt is even alive. Alexander, a Santa Ynez ranch owner and supporter of California racing for 36 years, gave the following detailed account of Tough Sunday’s extreme ordeal at his birth on March 23, 2012. “This colt had a tough beginning,” Alexander said. “He was very big and got stuck during delivery, and in struggling to get out his (umbilical) cord was severed and by the time we pulled him out, he had been without oxygen for some time. “We... ...

Del Mar Considers Year-Round Stabling

By DRF.com DEL MAR, Calif. (Jan. 4, 2015) — Del Mar and the landlord of its property, the California 22nd District Agricultural Association, have launched a feasibility study on year-round stabling at the popular seaside racetrack. Track president Joe Harper said on Sunday that the study will focus on the costs of year-round stabling, and how stabling will affect other events held on the property through the year. “From their point of view, they are very open to some kind of increase in stabling and training,” Harper said of the agricultural association. “Their concern is they have a number of things go on there that make it difficult to have training.” Currently, Del Mar hosts stabling for its two race meetings – from mid-July to early September and in November – but is not open on a year-round basis. The track typically opens its barn area one week to 10 days before the start of a race meeting. Harper said the most significant issue is the presence of the San... ...

Bluegrass Singer in Tune at Gulfstream

By Bloodhorse.com HALLANDALE, Fla. (Jan. 3, 2015) — A fast pace under strong pressure failed to deter front-running Bluegrass Singer, who shook loose of his rivals in the lane and held sway to the wire in the $100,000 Mucho Macho Man Stakes for 3-year-olds at Gulfstream Park Jan. 3 (VIDEO). Ridden for the first time by Javier Castellano, the gelded son of California stallion Bluegrass Cat registered his first stakes win in the listed event for trainer Marcus Vitali and owner Crossed Sabres Farm. Bluegrass Singer ran the one-mile distance in 1:35.83 over a fast track, defeating Ami’s Flatter by 1 3/4 lengths as the 2-1 second choice in a field of nine. It was nearly nine lengths farther back to 13-10 favorite Mawthooq in third. “We had some issues with him that made me feel it was necessary to geld him,” Vitali said. “I like to keep them all colts if I can. But we’re in the racing game, not the hoping game. He’s matured; he’s blossomed.” Off a... ...

‘Chrome, Bayern Head for Showdown

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 3, 2015) — Bayern and California Chrome took another step toward a possible early-season rematch when the leading Horse of the Year contenders worked sharply about an hour apart the morning of Jan. 3 at their respective training bases. At Santa Anita Park, Bayern turned in a handy five-furlong drill in 1:00 2/5, while in neighboring Orange County, California Chrome clocked six furlongs in 1:12 3/5 at Los Alamitos Race Course. Both are on course to clash for the first time since the Breeders’ Cup Classic (gr. I) in the $500,000 San Antonio Stakes (gr. II) Feb. 7 at Santa Anita, a race that is also expected to attract Shared Belief. “He worked real nice,” Bob Baffert said of Classic winner Bayern, who had regular rider Martin Garcia aboard. “He was very comfortable. We’re just working to get him back to the races. We have a few spots in mind, including the San Antonio and the Donn.” The Donn Handicap (gr. I) at Gulfstream Park... ...

Big Business Wins Robb Stakes

OZONE PARK, N.Y. (Dec. 31, 2014) — Big Business closed out a productive year with a flourish, winning Aqueduct’s $100,000 Alex M. Robb Stakes by a head for owner Gary Barber and trainer David Jacobson. The victory was the first stakes win for the ultra consistent gelding by California stallion Eddington. Big Business has compiled a 10-3-5-1 record in 2014 which included a runner-up finish to Palace in the Grade I Forego and seconds in four other stakes at Belmont and Saratoga. With earnings of $763,430, Big Business ranks second to Secret Circle (G1, $2,430,790) among Eddington’s leading money winners. Bred in New York by Henthorn Racing Inc., Big Business is the fourth foal and first winner produced from Spanish Guitar, a stakes-winning daughter of Birdonthewire. ...

Velvet Mesquite, Heat Trap in Monvrovia

ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 1, 2015) – Stakes winner Velvet Mesquite and fellow California-bred Heat Trap are entered in Sunday’s $200,000 Grade II Monrovia Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita. Heat Trap is by Unusual Heat, out of the Deposit Ticket mare Trapunto, was bred by owners Scott Gross and Mark Devereaux and is trained by Carla Gaines, She has four wins in 11 starts, earnings of $251,956 and is coming off a second in a Nov. 21 optional claimer. Velvet Mesquite is by In Excess, out of the Huddle Up mare Mesquite, was bred by owner Harris Farms and is trained by Blake Heap. She has five wins in 10 starts, earnings of $260,606 and is coming off a second in the Nov. 1 Senator Ken Maddy Stakes. ...

‘Chrome to be Honored Jan. 10

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 1, 2015) — The connections of California Chrome are expected to be on hand at Santa Anita Park Jan. 10 when the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) winner is honored with the Secretariat Vox Populi “Voice of the People” Award. Track officials said that prior to the races, there will be a special autograph session that includes a free California Chrome poster to the first 2,000 fans attending the session. Presented for the fifth time, the “Vox Populi” Award was established by Penny Chenery, owner of 1973 Triple Crown Champion Secretariat. In addition to the Derby as one of six wins in nine starts, the Lucky Pulpit colt also won the Santa Anita Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Hollywood Derby (all grade I). Regular rider Victor Espinoza and trainer Art Sherman, along with California Chrome owners Steve Coburn and Perry Martin, will be available to sign autographs beginning at 11 a.m. PST in Santa Anita’s East Paddock Gardens. The presentation of the Vox... ...

Eclipse Finalists Announced Jan. 7

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Dec. 30, 2014) — Finalists for 2014 Eclipse Awards will be announced Wednesday, Jan. 7, during a 30-minute program on HRTV that will begin at 11:30 a.m. EST. The announcement from Santa Anita Park will be hosted by Christina Blacker and Laffit Pincay III, with reporters Scott Hazelton and Caton Bredar. The Eclipse Awards, honoring excellence in Thoroughbred racing, are voted upon by the National Thoroughbred Racing Association, National Turf Writers And Broadcasters, and Daily Racing Form. Winners in all 17 human and equine categories will be announced at the 44th annual Eclipse Awards dinner Saturday, Jan. 17, at Gulfstream Park Racing & Casino in Hallandale Beach, Fla. HRTV also will provide live coverage of the ceremony that will include presentations of the Award of Merit to Tom Durkin and the Special Award to Old Friends Farm. Tickets to the Eclipse Awards are available for $400 each. More information at http://www.ntra.com/en/eclipse-awards/2015-eclipse-awards or by contacting Michele Ravencraft of the NTRA at mravencraft@ntra.com. Read more on BloodHorse.com: http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/89355/eclipse-finalists-to-be-announced-jan-7#ixzz3NPaDjsXX ...

Cal-bred Registration Deadline Dec. 31

ARCADIA, Calif. (Dec. 29, 2014) – The deadline to register foals of 2013 as California-bred or California-sired is Dec. 31, 2014. The registration fee for members of the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association is $125 per foal. The registration fee for non-members of the CTBA is $250 per foal. The registration fee after Dec. 31 is $750 per foal for CTBA members and non-members. For Cal-bred foal forms, click https://ctba.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/NOM-CalBredFoalRegistrationApplication-5-1.pdf. For Cal-foaled foal forms, click https://ctba.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/NOM-AppCalSiredReg-4-1.pdf. For more information, contact Mary Ellen at the CTBA office, 626-445-7800 ext. 236 or email registration@ctba.com. ...

Oak Tree Matches Donations for Dr. Robbins

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Dec. 29, 2014) — The Oak Tree Racing Association announced today that it will match donations made to Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation in honor of Dr. Jack K. Robbins. The pledge will cover donations up to a total of $100,000 that are made through December 31, 2015. Dr. Robbins, a Thoroughbred owner and breeder and a pioneer in the field of veterinary medicine, died November 29, 2014, after battling pulmonary and respiratory disease. He was 93. “Dr. Jack Robbins was a founder of the Oak Tree Racing Association and a standard-bearer for the association’s dedication to the betterment of racing and the good of the horse,” said John Barr, president of the Oak Tree Racing Association. “He was also a champion of equine research, and Oak Tree feels it is very appropriate that we honor his long association with the Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation.” “The Robbins family is thrilled that Oak Tree has extended this offer,” said Tom Robbins, executive vice... ...

Big Bane Theory Back in San Gabriel

ARCADIA, Calif. (Dec. 31, 2014) – Graded winner Big Bane Theory is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $200,000 Grade II San Gabriel Stakes at Santa Anita. Big Bane Theory is by Artie Schiller, out of the Alysheba mare Shebane, was bred by owners Scott Gross and Mark Devereaux and is trained by Carla Gaines. He has four wins in 13 starts, earnings of $365,640 and is coming off a fifth in the Nov. 28 Seabiscuit. ...

Bettys Bambino Wins Daytona

By Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (Dec. 28, 2014) – Trainer Peter Eurton’s red-hot Bettys Bambino made his stakes debut a successful one on Sunday at Santa Anita, as the 4-year-old California-bred gelding by Unusual Heat took the Grade III, $100,000 Daytona Stakes by a half length under Martin Garcia, negotiating 6 ½ furlongs down the hillside turf course in 1:12.49. In winning his third consecutive race down Santa Anita’s unique Camino Real turf course, Bettys Bambino was ridden confidently by Garcia, who broke from post position seven and was fifth in a field of nine crossing the dirt at the top of the stretch. “He loves this course and who knows, he might like a mile, but we never really had the opportunity,” said Eurton. “But he does love the downhill and I don’t think we’ll ever change that…We’re just kind of going to enjoy this one right now and see what comes up at a later date.” The second choice at 3-1, Bettys Bambino paid $8.00, $4.00 and $3.00.... ...

Harlington’s Rose Wins Kalookan Queen

By Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (Dec. 28, 2014) – Longshot Harlington’s Rose wheeled into the stretch four-deep and ran down favorites Awesome Baby and Tribal Gal to take the $75,000 Kalookan Queen Stakes by 1 ¼ lengths under Joe Talamo. Fifth turning for home, Harlington’s Rose, trained by Steve Knapp, ran into splits of 21.66, 44 flat, 1:08.90 and came home 6 ½ furlongs in 1:15.48. Off at 17-1 in a field of eight fillies and mares, Harlington’s Rose paid $37.60, $12.60 and $8.60. In her first stakes win, she improved her overall mark to 18-3-5-0 and with the winner’s share of $60,000, she increased her earnings to $277,680 for owners Halasz, Johnson, Newhart and partners. “She’s been training as good as she possibly could,” said Knapp. “In her last race at Del Mar (five furlong turf allowance on Nov. 22), she was blocked from the sixteenth pole to the wire and she still only got beat 1 ¾ lengths. She’s a good filly.” Talamo, who got his second win... ...

Alert Bay

Alert Bay wins the $200,000 Grade II Mathis Brothers Mile Stakes. ...

‘Chrome Works Toward San Antonio

By Bloodhorse.com CYPRESS, Calif. (Dec. 27, 2014) — Both Breeders’ Cup Classic (gr. I) winner Bayern and Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) victor California Chrome posted works Dec. 27 with a possible rematch looming that could include Shared Belief. All three contenders for 2014 Horse of the Year honors are under consideration for the $500,000 San Antonio Stakes (gr. II) Feb. 7 at Santa Anita Park. In their most recent confrontation in the controversial BC Classic Nov. 1 at Santa Anita, Bayern prevailed by a nose, with California Chrome third. Shared Belief was fourth as the favorite after a rough start involving Bayern compromised his chances. Both California Chrome and Shared Belief have come back with grade I victories since, while Bayern is yet to race since. California Chrome returned to win the Hollywood Derby on grass at Del Mar Nov. 29, while Shared Belief captured the Malibu Stakes (gr. I) on opening day of the Santa Anita winter meet Dec. 26. At Los Alamitos Race Course,... ...

Another Win for Cal-bred Alert Bay

By DRF.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Dec. 26, 2014) – Alert Bay gave trainer Blaine Wright his first Santa Anita stakes win when the gelding won the $200,000 Echo Eddie Stakes for California-bred sprinters last March. Friday, Alert Bay gave Wright his first win in a Grade 2 stakes in the $201,250 Mathis Brothers Mile on turf at Santa Anita. Patiently ridden by Tyler Baze, Alert Bay ($20.40) stalked the pace to early stretch and outfinished Home Run Kitten to win by a neck, finishing in 1:35.06. “The horse never gets the respect he deserves; he’s a really talented horse,” said Baze. “A couple times when we ran second or third we had a bit of a rough trip, but today I was happy when the horse inside me broke slow. I’m really going to ride him with confidence because he’s a push-button horse who really gives it his all. He always gives 150 percent.” Wright had a few anxious moments when Alert Bay raced behind pacesetters Red Outlaw and Heart to... ...

Salutos Amigos Wins Gravesend

By Bloodhorse.com OZONE PARK, N.Y. (Dec. 26, 2014) — After not winning a stakes in his first two seasons of racing, Salutos Amigos, a son of California stallion Salute the Sarge, nailed down the third of his 4-year-old campaign when he drew off in the stretch to win the $98,000 Gravesend Dec. 26 at Aqueduct Racetrack (VIDEO). Campaigned by Southern Equine Stable and trainer David Jacobson, 6-5 choice Salutos Amigos delivered a 2 1/2-length score in the Gravesend even though jockey Irad Ortiz Jr. appeared to have lost the whip during the inner track race. Salutos Amigos has won stakes races in three of his past four starts. He entered Friday’s race against four opponents off a clear victory in the Fall Highweight Handicap (gr. III) Nov. 27 on the Aqueduct main track. He also won the Bold Ruler Handicap (gr. III) Oct. 25 at Belmont Park before finishing seventh in the XpressBet Breeders’ Cup Sprint (gr. I) at Santa Anita Park. “He was spectacular, as usual,” Jacobson said. “The... ...

Singing Kitty Enters Blue Norther

ARCADIA, Calif. (Dec. 28, 2014) – Singing Kitty is the lone California-bred entered in Thursday’s $75,000 Blue Norther Stakes for 3-year-old fillies at Santa Anita. Singing Kitty is by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Unbridled’s Song mare Natural Singer R N, was bred by Tommy Town Thoroughbreds, is owned by Chris Aulds, Peter Jeong and Brandon Hillman and is trained by Matthew Chew. She has two wins in five starts, earnings of $65,188 and is coming off a Dec. 11 claiming win. ...

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