‘Chrome to Skip Lockinge Stakes

Apr 28, 2015 Posted by CTBA In News

By Paulick Report NEWMARKET, Great Britain (Apr. 28, 2015) — Reigning Horse of the Year California Chrome, who is currently being prepared for a European campaign, will not run in the Group 1 Al Shaqab Lockinge Stakes May 16. According to an article in the Racing Post, trainer Rae Guest – who is handling the preparation of the dual classic winner while California Chrome is in England – indicated that it has taken a long time for the colt to recover from the Dubai trip. “He’s not going to run,” Guest said. “He took a long time to get over the trip which is understandable. It was a long way from California to Dubai, then racing and coming here, it’s a lot for a horse to take in in one go.” “We’re happy with him now but it would have been a rush to get him ready for the Lockinge.” California Chrome will now be readied for the Group 1 Prince of Wales’s Stakes at Royal Ascot on June 17. ...

Billy Koch

By Emily Shields, California Thoroughbred Shortly after Singletary crossed the wire first in the 2004 NetJets Breeders’ Cup Mile (gr. IT) at Lone Star Park, his cheering, chanting owners flooded the winner’s circle. Their $30,000 investment had just scored in a $1.5 million race, and their infectious enthusiasm was broadcast live on national television. The president of the Breeders’ Cup, D.G. Van Clief Jr., called it “the greatest single moment in Breeders’ Cup history.” For Billy Koch the win was nothing more than an exclamation point on what he already knew: Horse racing is supposed to be fun. “I feel that all of us lose perspective on how much fun we can have in our lives,” Koch said. “We’re allowed to have fun.” The search for fun is what led Koch, a self-professed “lifetime racetrack junkie and degenerate gambler,” to create his first partnership in 1991. The Versailles Racing Syndicate gave Koch a solid first experience in group ownership. “Over the next 10 years I just kept starting all these... ...

Bodhisattva in Parx Derby

BENSALEM, Pa. (Apr. 27, 2015) – Bodhisattva is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $75,000 Parx Derby for 3-year-olds at Parx Racing. 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 three wins in 11 starts, earnings of $165,095 and is coming off a win in the Apr. 18 Frederico Tesio Stakes. ...

Tribal Echo in Golden Circle

ALTOONA, Ia. (Apr. 27, 2015) – Tribal Echo is the lone California-bred entered in Friday’s $75,000 Golden Circle Stakes for 3-year-olds at Prairie Meadows. Tribal Echo is by Tribal Rule, out of the Swiss Yodeler mare Serena’s Echo, was bred by The Cole Ranch, is owned by K and R Racing and trained by Joe Hawley. He has three wins in 13 starts, earnings of $48,638 and is coming off a win in the Nov. 11 Baxter Stakes. ...

‘Chrome Adjusting to Newmarket

By Bloodhorse.com NEWMARKET, Great Britain (Apr. 27, 2015) — For three weeks after California Chrome landed in England, the weather gods smiled. It was almost as if they decreed he should be drenched in his own sunshine. Newmarket can present a hostile environment in this part of the season. Winds whistle in from the North Sea to the east, unchecked by flat terrain. The Thoroughbred capital of the country may be 40 miles inland, but it can feel like a Siberian outpost. Not this time. Temperatures soared to unseasonal highs as the darling of American racing flew in from Dubai. There was little climatic contrast for him to adjust to as he bedded down in Rae Guest’s stables on the southern edge of Newmarket. But on the morning of April 25, when California Chrome was asked to raise his exercise tempo, the rains arrived. It made a portent of things to come for the horse with designs on Royal Ascot and the June 17 Prince of Wales’s Stakes (Eng-I). The sunshine siesta was... ...

Campanille Goes to La Fiera

ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 26, 2015) – La Fiera rallied through the stretch to win Sunday’s $100,210 Campanille Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-old fillies at Golden Gate. La Fiera is by Comic Strip, out of the Roar mare Ms. Booty, was bred by owners Dr. & Mrs. William Gray and is trained by Greg James. She has three wins in five starts, earnings of $82,607 and was coming off a third in an Apr. 4 optional claimer. La Fiera ran the mile on turf in 1:38.92 and won by two lengths at odds of 5-1 in the field of eight, with Ashley’s Sassy second and Niassa third. “The trainer told me to try to stay close because last time she was too far back,” said jockey Juan Hernandez. “She broke really good and then she got behind horses and I was just trying to save ground. Around the (far) turn I got her out and she started picking it up. When I started asking her in the stretch she... ...

Grazen Sky Wins Silky Sullivan

ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 26, 2015) – Grazen Sky, going two turns for the first time, won Sunday’s $100,000 Silky Sullivan Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-olds at Golden Gate. Grazen Sky is by Grazen, out of the Sky Mesa mare Sky Marni, was bred by owner Nick Alexander and is trained by Steven Miyadi. He has three wins in six starts, earnings of $176,800 and was coming off a second in the Apr. 4 Echo Eddie. Grazen Sky ran the mile on turf in 1:38 and won by 1 ¼ lengths as the 6-5 favorite. Pulmarack was second and Cardiac third in the field of six after morning-line favorite Richard’s Boy scratched. After conceding the early lead to Cardiac, Grazen Sky moved up to challenge the pacesetter at the top of the lane and then took command in the final sixteenth of a mile. “At first I didn’t think he was handling the turf that good,” said jockey Ricardo Gonzalez. “He was actually just kind of hanging in there.... ...

Third Time’s a Charm for Joy Boy

By The Grand Island Independent GRAND ISLAND, Neb. (Apr. 25, 2015) — He said the key was how Joy Boy opened up the lead on the second turn. “When they came around the corner here, he saws that corner off,” Hulse said. “He put two lengths between them coming down the back stretch. That’s his signature. Any time you’re watching him, if you bet on him when he does that, go to the window. “He’s much faster around the corners. That’s what makes him good on a bullring.” Hulse also noticed in previous races Saturday that some very good times were being put up. He saw that as a positive for his horse. “When the track tightened up and I saw the speed a couple of times, I got a little more confidence,” Hulse said. “Diamond Joe, he keeps you honest. We keep each other honest.” Joy Boy — bred in California by Dr. and Mrs. William Gray — paid $6.80, $3.60 and $2.40 to win. Diamond Joe paid $5.40... ...

G. G. Ryder Wins S.F. Mile

From Golden Gate Publicity ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 25, 2015) — California-bred G. G. Ryder dealt stablemate Summer Hit his third consecutive tough defeat in the Grade 3 San Francisco Mile when he won the $100,000 turf stakes by a half-length Saturday at Golden Gate Fields. Bred by Eagle Oak Ranch and ridden by Ricardo Gonzalez, G. G. Ryder ran down front-running Summer Hit and jockey Russell Baze in the final yards to give trainer Jerry Hollendorfer the exacta in the top grass race of the spring meeting. The SF Mile was contested on rain-dampened course rated “soft” and G. G. Ryder prevailed in 1:37.87. Summer Hit, who lost the 2013 SF Mile by a neck to Tigah and last year’s running by three-quarters of a length to Pepper Crown, took third by three-quarters of a length over Are You Kidding Me and jockey Brice Blanc. Defending champ Pepper Crown finished fourth under apprentice David C. Lopez. G. G. Ryder broke from... ...

Jockey Carr Released from Hospital

From Golden Gate Fields ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 25, 2015) — Jockey Dennis Carr, who suffered a head injury in a starting gate incident on April 19 at Golden Gate Fields, was released from Highland Hospital Friday evening and plans to return to his home in the Saratoga Springs area of New York next week. “Dennis’ progress continues to be excellent,” said Dr. David Seftel, track physician at Golden Gate Fields. “He plans to complete his recuperation in New York in the company of his wife, Alisa, and their dogs.” ...

TOC Nominates Six for Board

From TOC ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 24, 2015) — The TOC Nominating Committee has announced a slate of six candidates for five open seats in the 2015 Board of Directors election, including incumbents Bob Baffert, Ed Moger, Mike Pegram and Kathy Walsh and new nominees Allen Aldrich and Gary Fenton. Baffert, who has served on the TOC board since 2007, is an owner-trainer representative and member of the Racing Affairs committee. Moger has served on the board since 2010 and also represents the owner-trainer category as well as Northern California members. He serves on the Executive and Racing Affairs committees. Pegram, who has been on the board since 2010, is board Chairman and serves “ex officio” on all TOC committees. Walsh was first elected in 2012 and serves as chair of the Racing Affairs committee. Aldrich, a resident of Northern California, has been a licensed owner since 1978 and averages more than 100 starts per year. He had an ownership interest in Eclipse Award winning champion She’s A Tiger. Fenton is... ...

Brackpool Takes on Ludt’s Duties

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 23, 2015) — The Stronach Group announced April 23 that senior vice president Tom Ludt has been appointed to spearhead a key company initiative, the purpose of which The Stronach Group is expected to reveal at a later date. Effective immediately, Ludt will assume control of the creation and implementation of the new national project under development within the company.As president of Santa Anita Park, Ludt oversaw a successful 68-day winter meeting, which concluded April 19. In a meet that opened Dec. 26, the track posted a 3% year-over-year increase in overall pari-mutuel handle and a 4% year-over-year hike in on-track attendance. As a result of his new appointment, Ludt will no longer oversee the day-to-day operations at Santa Anita. Keith Brackpool, chairman of The Stronach Group’s West Coast operations, will assume control of Santa Anita’s day-to-day management, effective opening day of the track’s spring meeting, which begins April 24.“We very much appreciate Tom’s stewardship of the Santa Anita Park operations over the past two years and... ...

Del Mar Track Nearly Complete

By Bloodhorse.com DEL MAR, Calif. (Apr. 23, 2015) — Del Mar‘s change from a synthetic surface to dirt on its main track is nearly complete, with horses expected to train on it starting in mid-May.About 31,000 tons of dirt has been put down on the mile oval to replace the Polytrack surface that was in place for eight years. The same dirt, referred to as “El Segundo sand,” is currently used at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, Calif.Crews are expected to be done reinstalling the main track’s inner rail by April 24. They will then adjust the outer rail, with some sections being extended upward by nearly a foot to meet safety standards. The winner’s circle was also raised to adjust for the new surface.Track superintendent Richard Tedesco says horses will be able to train on the surface by May 15.Del Mar opens its summer meet July 16. Read more on BloodHorse.com: http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/91465/del-mars-switch-to-dirt-nearly-complete#ixzz3YBOODnvO ...

Uzziel, Smoove It in Wilshire

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 23, 2015) – Stakes winner Uzziel and fellow California-bred Smoove It are entered in Sunday’s $100,000 Grade III Wilshire Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita. Uzziel is by Harlington, out of the Lord At War mare Pretti Woman, was bred by owners James and Tammy McKenney and is trained by J. Keith Desormeaux. She has four wins in 14 starts, earnings of $239,238 and is coming off a second in the Apr. 10 Santa Lucia Stakes. 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 is trained by Doug O’Neill. She has four wins in 17 starts, earnings of $248,980 and has won three of her last four starts. ...

Grazen Sky in Silky Sullivan

ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 23, 2015) – Echo Eddie Stakes runner-up Grazen Sky leads seven entered in Sunday’s $100,000 Silky Sullivan Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-olds at Golden Gate. Grazen Sky is by Grazen, out of the Sky Mesa mare Sky Marni, was bred by owner Nick Alexander and is trained by Steven Miyadi. He has two wins in five starts, earnings of $129,800 and is coming off a second in the Apr. 4 Echo Eddie. Cardiac is by Papa Clem, out of the Unusual Heat mare Heatinaheartbeat, was bred by owners Madeline Auerback, Marsha Naify, Barry Abrams and Onofrio Pecoraro and is trained by Abrams. He has one win in seven starts, earnings of $71,730 and is coming off a sixth in an Apr. 4 allowance. Pulmarack is by Lucky Pulpit, out of the Dehere mare Tamarack Bay, was bred by owners Mr. & Mrs. Larry Williams and is trained by Jerry Hollendorfer. He has one win in seven starts, earnings of $125,330 and is coming off a... ...

Eight Entered in Campanille

ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 23, 2015) – A field of eight is entered in Sunday’s $100,000 Campanille Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-old fillies at Golden Gate. Saint Mamie is by Unusual Heat, out of the Runaway Groom mare Silver Lining, was bred by Donald Dizney, is owned by Seamist Racing and trained by Blaine Wright. She has three wins in seven starts, earnings of $27,990 and is coming off three consecutive wins. Ashley’s Sassy is by Decarchy, out of the Urgent Request mare Ashley’s Folly, was bred by owners Alesia, Bran Jam Stable and Ciaglia Racing and is trained by Peter Eurton. She has two wins in five starts, earnings of $116,800 and is coming off a third in the Apr. 4 Evening Jewel. La Fiera is by Comic Strip, out of the Roar mare Ms. Booty, was bred by owners Dr. & Mrs. William Gray and is trained by Greg James. She has two wins in four starts, earnings of $25,607 and is coming off a third in... ...

Joy Boy at Fonner Park

GRAND ISLAND, Ne. (Apr. 23, 2015) — Joy Boy is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $75,000 Bosselman Pump and Pantry/Gus Fonner Stakes at Fonner Park. Joy Boy is by Tribal Rule, out of the Half Term mare Joyously, was bred by Dr. & Mrs. William Gray, is owned by TK Stables and is trained by Kellyn Gorder. He has 10 wins in 35 starts, earnings of $410,377 and is coming off a fourth in an Apr. 4 optional claimer. He was fourth in this race last year and third in 2013. ...

‘Chrome, Big Macher Eye Ascot

By Bloodhorse.com ASCOT, Great Britain (Apr. 22, 2015) — U.S. Horse of the Year California Chrome and fellow California-bred Big Macher are among 388 entries representing 10 countries for the Royal Ascot meeting in June. The number of entries for the established seven group I races (311) is in line with the number received in 2014 (309). However, the 77 entries for the meet’s new group I sprint for 3-year-olds, the Commonwealth Cup, is the highest number of entries received for any of the eight top-level races this year’s Royal meeting, set to run from Tuesday, June 16, through Saturday, June 20. Entries for Royal Ascot have been received from the United Kingdom (237), Ireland (75), France (46), the USA (11), Australia (8), Hong Kong (4), Germany (3), Japan (2), Spain (1) and Sweden (1). The Prince of Wales’s Stakes is shaping up as a truly international clash with 2014 Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) and Preakness (gr. I) winner California Chrome, recently second in the Emirates Dubai World... ...

Pepper Crown Seeks Repeat

ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 22, 2015) – Defending champion Pepper Crown and fellow multiple graded winner Summer hit join fellow California-bred G. G. Ryder in Saturday’s $100,000 Grade III San Francisco Mile 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 22 starts, earnings of $351,853 and is coming off a win in an Apr. 5 allowance. He won this race last year. Summer Hit is by Bertrando, out of the Tough Knight mare Mia F Eighteen, was bred by Kenneth and Janice Heidt, is owned by John Carver and Jerry Hollendorfer and is trained by Hollendorfer. He has 11 wins in 22 starts, earnings of $552,849 and is coming off a second in a Mar. 29 allowance. He was second in this race the last two years. G. G. Ryder is by Chhaya Dance, out of the Storm Boot mare Stormy Gigi, was bred by Eagle Oak Ranch,... ...

Oak Tree at Pleasanton Meet Details

From Oak Tree Racing PLEASANTON, Calif. (Apr. 23, 2015) — For complete information on the Oak Tree at Pleasanton meet, click: http://oaktreeracing.com/sites/all/themes/oaktree/pdfs/2015/oaktreeflyer.pdf ...

NTRA Letter on Tax Modernization

By Alex Waldrop, NTRA WASHINGTON, D.C. (Apr. 22, 2015) — We at the NTRA recognize that the engine that drives every aspect of our business and sport is pari-mutuel wagering. That’s why it is extremely important for our industry that the United States Treasury Department and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) have announced that they will examine the way winning pari-mutuel wagers are treated for tax reporting and withholding purposes. The NTRA is asking Treasury and the IRS to modernize the way they calculate the amount wagered for purposes of withholding and reporting by including in that calculation all money bet by an individual into a single pool. This regulatory change would eliminate a high percentage of reporting and withholding tickets and could increase pari-mutuel wagering on horse racing by as much as 10%, or $1 billion, in year one alone, according to Steve Crist of the Daily Racing Form. Increased handle will lead to higher purses and added strength in our bloodstock markets. On Tuesday, April 21, the NTRA issued... ...

NorCal Sale Grad in Petticoat

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (Apr. 21, 2015) – Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Tip Top Lady is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $55,000 Petticoat Stakes for 3-year-old fillies at Albuquerque. Tip Top Lady is by Marino Marini, out of the Lord Carson mare Sharoana, was bred by George Schmitt, is owned by Richard Meister and George and Mary Clare Schmitt and is trained by Jose Silva. She has two wins in five starts, earnings of $28,440 and is coming off a fourth in a Mar. 16 allowance. ...

Mitchell Remembered by Industry

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 21, 2015) — Well over 200 people—horsemen, fans, and racetrack regulars—gathered April 20 at Santa Anita Park to remember trainer Mike Mitchell, who died at the age of 66 April 14 after a lengthy battle with brain cancer. Several people spoke, most emphasizing Mitchell’s sense of family, which went well beyond his wife, Denise, and daughters McCall and Shea. Phil D’Amato, Mitchell’s longtime assistant who took over the stable a year ago as Mitchell’s illness progressed, battled tears as he spoke about his boss. “Mike is my hero,” said D’Amato. “It was 14 years ago when I met Mike Mitchell while looking for a job. He said he’d give me a one-week trial, but after a couple of days he took me under his wing and he made me a part of his family. He was like my second father.” Hall of Fame trainer Gary Jones said that he and Mitchell were like brothers, Mitchell having come up under Jones’ father, trainer Farrell Jones. “He was a... ...

Carr Recovering from Head Surgery

By Bloodhorse.com OAKLAND, Calif. (Apr. 20, 2015) — Jockey Dennis Carr, who suffered a blunt blow to the back of his head in a starting gate incident Sunday, April 19 at Golden Gate Fields, was “sitting up and recovering very well” Monday morning after undergoing surgery Sunday night at Highland Hospital in Oakland, Calif. The surgery was performed to remove blood from around his brain and relieve cranial pressure. “The doctors at Highland said the surgery was a complete success and that there will be a full neurological recovery with no residual brain damage,” reported Golden Gate Fields’ track physician, Dr. David Seftel, . “Dennis is sitting up, alert, and recovering very well this morning. He is expected to make a full recovery.” Carr sustained his head injury when his mount in the fifth race, Sharpton, reared wildly in the gate. Carr was ejected out of the back of the gate and wasn’t sure what his head hit during the incident. Carr walked around behind the gate without the need... ...

Lava Man a Hall of Famer

By Bloodhorse.com SARATOGA, N.Y. (Apr. 20, 2015) – California-bred champion Lava man, trainer King Leatherbury, the late jockey Chris Antley and female sprinter Xtra Heat will receive the sport’s highest honor as the 2015 class of the National Museum of Racing’s Hall of Fame. The electees will be inducted during ceremonies at 10:30 a.m., Friday, Aug. 7 at the Fasig-Tipton sales pavilion in Saratoga Springs, N.Y. Trained by Doug O’Neill, Lava Man won seven grade I races, to date more than any other California-bred in history. With a career record of 17-8-5 from 47 starts with earnings of $5,268,706, among California-bred horses only Hall of Famers Tiznow and Best Pal and 2014 Horse of the Year California Chrome have higher career earnings. Lava Man won three consecutive editions of the Hollywood Gold Cup (gr. I) from 2005 through 2007, matching a feat Hall of Famer Native Diver accomplished from 1965 through 1967. Lava Man also won back-to-back runnings of the Santa Anita Handicap (gr. I) in 2006 and 2007. Lava Man (Slew City Slew—L’il Ms. Leonard,... ...

Mitchell Memorial Monday

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 18, 2015) — A public memorial for longtime Southern California trainer Mike Mitchell will take place Monday, April 20 at Santa Anita. The service, which is to start at 1:30 p.m. and run until 3 p.m., will be held in the track’s Chandelier Room. Mitchell, who passed away following a lengthy battle with brain cancer at age 66 on Tuesday, trained in California for nearly 40 years and is survived by his wife, Denise and their two daughters, McCall (Rounsefell) and Shea (Leparoux). Additional surviving family includes his four siblings; a twin sister, Cheryl, and three brothers, Earl, Jr., Guy and Casey. The Mitchell family has arranged for their pastor and the choir from their church, Fellowship Monrovia, to address those attending. There will also be a few other short speeches from designated speakers. At the request of the family, donations may be made in Mike Mitchell’s name to the Southern California Race Track Chaplaincy of America (RTCA). The family has also requested that light... ...

Bodhisattva Captures Tesio

By Brisnet.com BALTIMORE, Md. (Apr. 18, 2015) — California-bred Bodhisattva’s (Student Council) efforts to wire Saturday’s $100,000 Federico Tesio S. at Pimlico were derailed a bit when Noteworthy Peach (Read the Footnotes) headed him in the stretch, but the chestnut colt battled back on the inside of that rival to take command once again and this time draw off for the 1 1/2-length win.Trained by owner Jose Corrales and ridden in the 1 1/16-mile contest by Trevor McCarthy, Bodhisattva set splits of :24 4/5, :49 and 1:13 3/5 as Noteworthy Peach kept in close contact just to his outside. All Hands (Unbridled’s Song), the full brother to Eight Belles, was sent off the 6-5 favorite in this spot after breaking his maiden by seven lengths on March 15 at Aqueduct and saved ground on the inside just behind those two on the backstretch. All Hands couldn’t keep up as Noteworthy Peach began his move, ranging up to run in tandem Bodhisattva in the lane. Those two battled it out to the wire,... ...

CHRB Meeting Summary

From CHRB BERKELEY, Calif. (Apr. 18, 2015) – The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Thursday, April 16, at Golden Gate Fields. Chairman Chuck Winner presided. First Vice Chair Bo Derek, Second Vice Chair Richard Rosenberg and Commissioners Madeline Auerbach, Steve Beneto, and Jesse Choper 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 adjusted the 2015 racing calendar, reflecting a compromise reached between Golden Gate Fields and the fairs. Golden Gate will conduct a meet from August 19 through September 7, followed by meets at Stockton (September 11-20), Golden Gate (September 24-October 4), Fresno (October 8-18), and Golden Gate (October 22-December 20). · CHRB Executive Director Rick Baedeker reported that two rule changes pertaining to use of the riding crop (formerly called whip) and horses on the veterinarian’s list will go into effect July 1. The Board approved the riding crop amendment in November, so California jockeys have had six months to adjust for... ...

Oak Tree-Pleasanton Condition Book Online

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 17, 2015) – The condition book for the 2015 Oak Tree at Pleasanton meet is now online. http://www.calfairs.com/data/cbooks/pleasanton.pdf?utm_source=Overnight&utm_campaign=93615d936e-Oak_Tree_at_Pleasanton_Condition_Book4_17_2015&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_ac79a58603-93615d936e-79120121 More than $1.7 million in purses will be available and six stakes races will be run in the 12-day meeting at the Alameda Fairgrounds. Trainers making between five and nine starts will receive a $500 bonus on the last day of the meet. Trainers making 10 or more starts will receive $1,000. Shipping horses to the meet? Call the racing office for relocation assistance at 415-271-4613. ...

NorCal Racing Calendar Altered

By DRF.com ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 16, 2015) — The Thoroughbred racing calendar for Northern California in September and October was altered at Thursday’s California Horse Racing Board meeting, interspersing county fair meetings in Stockton and Fresno with the months-long Golden Gate Fields meeting in Albany. Under dates previously allocated, Golden Gate Fields was scheduled to start its summer-autumn meeting Aug. 21 and run through Sept. 13 before pausing for race meetings in Stockton and Fresno in late September and early October. Golden Gate would have resumed racing Oct. 15. Under the new calendar, Golden Gate Fields will open its summer-autumn meeting Aug. 21 and run through Sept. 7 before taking a two-week break while the San Joaquin County Fair meeting in Stockton is held Sept. 11-20. Stockton was originally scheduled to race Sept. 18-27. The new calendar will have Golden Gate Fields resume racing from Sept. 24 through Oct. 4 and then take another break to allow for the Big Fresno Fair meeting Oct. 8-18. Fresno was allotted racing dates... ...

Tangelo Steps Up Saturday

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 15, 2015) – Tangelo is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $150,000 Grade III Santa Barbara Handicap for fillies and mares at Santa Anita. Tangelo is by Square Eddie, out of the Bob Back mare Tangle, was bred by J. Paul Reddam, is owned by Reddam Racing and trained by Ben Cecil. She has one win in eight starts, earnings of $92,338 and is coming off a second in a Mar. 19 allowance. ...

Bodhisattva Tries Tesio

BALTIMORE, Md. (Apr. 15, 2015) – Bodhisattva is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Federico Tesio Stakes for 3-year-olds at Pimlico. 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 10 starts, earnings of $105,095 and is coming off a second in the Mar. 21 Private Terms. ...

She’s Ordained in Primonetta

BALTIMORE, Md. (Apr. 15, 2015) – She’s Ordained is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Primonetta Stakes for fillies and mares at Pimlico. She’s Ordained is by Minsters 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 Timothy Kreiser. She has 15 wins in 39 starts, earnings of $435,025 and is coming off a win in a Jan. 15 optional claimer. She was fourth in this race last year. ...

‘Chrome Jogs at Newmarket

By Bloodhorse.com NEWMARKET, England (Apr. 15, 2015) — Defending U.S. Horse of the Year California Chrome had Robbie Mills aboard for the first time April 15 at Newmarket, getting acquainted with the rider who will be his regular partner in the Rae Guest yard. A video posted to Youtube by Rae Guest Racing shows a short clip of the 4-year-old California-bred jogging behind 3-year-old maiden Tell Me Another in his first day ridden at Newmarket. Owners Steve Coburn and Perry Martin of DAP Racing shipped California Chrome to England to compete in the June 17 Prince of Wales’s Stakes (Eng-I) with a potential prep in the May 16 J.T. Lockinge Stakes (Eng-I). NOVAK: California Chrome Arrives in Newmarket Art Sherman will remain the trainer of record for last year’s winner of the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) and Preakness Stakes (gr. I). His son and assistant trainer Alan Sherman has scheduled a trip to Guest’s yard to check up on the stable star in about a month. California Chrome,... ...

Del Mar Releases Stakes Schedule

From DMTC DEL MAR, Calif. (Apr. 15, 2015) — Del Mar’s summertime 40-day meeting will feature 43 stakes events, topped by the $1,000,000 TVG Pacific Classic and worth a total of $7,950,000 in black-type purses. The historic track will present its bountiful slate during its 76th season of seaside sport starting on Thursday, July 16 and running through Labor Day Monday, September 7. The track’s 33 major, or “advertised,” stakes will carry purses ranging from $100,000 to the $1-million Classic, which will be presented on Saturday, August 22, while its 10 “overnight” stakes each will be worth $80,000. Additionally, the racing headquarters “where the turf meets the surf” will provide its horsemen with purses of more than $650,000 a day, the richest output in the state of California and among the most lucrative of any race meeting in America. The TVG Pacific Classic, first presented at the shore oval in 1991, will have its silver anniversary 25th edition this year, run at its classic distance of a mile and one quarter... ...

Feel-good Story for Brazeau

By Paulickreport.com A few days after Wild in the Saddle’s win in the Dream of Summer Stakes at Santa Anita, Nadine Anderson was running on a few hours’ sleep, but her voice hadn’t lost the glow of an owner’s first stakes win. Anderson is a co-owner and manager at Brazeau Thoroughbred Farm in Hemet, Calif., where she does everything from overseeing the grounds crew to helping break young horses to foaling out mares—the latter responsibility being the one that’s keeping her up all hours these days. Anderson is a life-long horsewoman who grew up showing horses and began galloping as a teenager to make extra cash. “Once you’ve gotten into it, it’s going to stick with you for life,” she said. Anderson moved on to racing Arabians, where she was enormously successful. She worked for Sheikh Mohammed, took horses to each of the major Arabian stakes races in America, and was the breeder of Pacifica, one of the first Arabians exported from the States to the UAE. “They had an... ...

Trainer Mike Mitchell Passes

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 14, 2015) – Mike Mitchell, the winningest trainer in Del Mar history who won 20 training titles in Southern California, died on Tuesday of the effects of a brain tumor diagnosed in 2012, according to friends of the family. Mitchell was 66. Mitchell retired from active training last April, turning over his stable to longtime assistant Phil D’Amato. Mitchell took a lesser role in the stable through the rest of 2014 and into this year and frequently attended races and morning workouts. He was an occasional visitor at Santa Anita in the mornings earlier this year but was in hospice care at his home near the racetrack in recent weeks. Mitchell began training in 1974 and won 2,678 races, mostly in Southern California. His runners earned $67,206,392. Mitchell won a career-best 127 races in 1983 and set a career high for earnings in a season with $4,571,184 in 2008, when his stable had 108 wins. “He’s a Hall of Fame trainer in my mind,” D’Amato said Tuesday.... ...

Headley Keeps on Rolling

By Thoroughbredracing.com Wallpapering floor to ceiling all four sides of his office at Santa Anita in a dusty and time-worn collage of photographs spanning decades are nearly all of trainer Bruce Headley’s 120-plus stake race victories during a career that has lasted a trifling 55 years. The oldest is a grainy sepia-tinged win picture dated 1962 – Poonastar’s victory in the Junior League Stakes at Hollywood Park, a young, sandy haired Headley with a touch of James Dean about him. The most recent is of Street Boss winning G1 Bing Crosby Handicap in 2008, the trainer’s sandy hair decidedly thinner, admittedly, but the young man from 46 years before still visible behind softened edges. The effect Headley’s office has on first time eyes is two-pronged. The first is to be led through a pictorial journey over the last 50 or so years of racing in California – the shadowed peaks of Santa Anita’s San Gabriel Mountains and Hollywood Park’s bulging grandstand captured at different lights, years, and seasons in the... ...

Former Commissioner Bianco Passes

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Apr. 13, 2015) – William Bianco Jr, a former racing commissioner and horse owner, who spent most of his life giving to others, suffered a stroke and passed away April 11 in San Jose at the age of 75. A self-made man, lacking a formal education, Mr. Bianco taught himself chemistry and eventually co-founded Kinetic Systems Inc, which provided process systems for the semi-conductor, biotech, pharmaceutical, and food industries, most notably containment systems and chemicals for the start-up company Intel in the early 1970s. After Mr. Bianco sold his company in 1998, he increased his involvement in thoroughbred racing and partnered in Fog City Stables, an ownership group with 35 horses. He and one of his sons, William Bianco III, bred and raced Cal-bred horses as Sunset Stables. Then-Governor Gray Davis appointed Mr. Bianco to the California Horse Racing Board in March 2001. He served six years as a racing commissioner through January 2007, including one year as vice chairman in 2005. During his years on the Board,... ...

CHRB Meeting Changes

From CHRB ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 13, 2015) — The California Horse Racing Board will conduct its regular monthly meeting this Thursday, April 16, in the Bay View Lounge (Turf Club) at Golden Gate Fields beginning at 10 a.m. The Northern California Race Dates Ad Hoc Committee will meet at the Top of the Stretch (club house) at Golden Gate Fields this Wednesday, April 15, 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 and supportingpackage of materials as well as the committee agenda and supporting package also are available on the website.. ...

Morey Services on Friday

By DRF.com SAN MATEO, Calif. (Apr. 14, 2015) — Services for trainer William J. Morey Jr. will be held on Friday at 11 a.m. Pacific in the Pacific Chapel at Skyline Memorial Park in San Mateo, Calif. (Hwy. 92 at Skyline Blvd.). Morey, 74, died April 10 after a long battle with cancer. A member of the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association Hall of Fame, he trained millionaire graded stakes winners Dixie Dot Com and Bold Chieftain. ...

Home Journey

Home Journey wins the $100,000 Grade III Las Cienegas Stakes. ...

Love The Chase Delivers Colt

COALINGA, Calif. (Apr. 12, 2015) – Love The Chase, broodmare of Horse of the Year California Chrome, delivered a full brother by Lucky Pulpit on Sunday. Love The Chase also delivered full sisters to California Chrome in 2013 and 2014, but was not bred following California Chrome’s delivery in 2011 and has no 2012 foal. ...

Home Journey Takes Las Cienegas

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (April 11, 2015)–California-bred Home Journey broke running and never looked back en route to a convincing one length win in Saturday’s Grade III, $100,000 Las Cienegas Stakes at Santa Anita. Ridden by Rafael Bejarano and trained by Mike Puype, the 5-year-old Good Journey mare negotiated 6 ½ furlongs down the hillside turf course in 1:13.09. “She ran really fast last time and just got nailed (when second to Las Cienegas favorite Go West Marie in the Sunshine Millions Filly & Mare Turf Sprint on Jan. 24),” said Puype. “Today, she slowed it down a little bit, she kicked, and she ran a good race.” The second choice at 3-1 in a field of eight older fillies and mares, Home Journey paid $8.40, $3.60 and $3.40. Owned by her breeders, Mark and Daryle Ann Giardino, along with Russell Sarno, Home Journey notched her first stakes win in the Las Cienegas and improved her overall mark to 12-5-3-0. With the winner’s share of $60,000, she improved... ...

Masochistic

Masochistic wins $200,000 Grade II Kona Gold Stakes. ...

Masochistic in First Stakes Win

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (April 11, 2015)–Heavily favored California-bred Masochistic, in his first start for trainer Ron Ellis, sat a close second early and went on to an impressive three quarter length win in Saturday’s Grade II, $200,000 Kona Gold Stakes. Ridden by Tyler Baze, Masochistic covered 6 ½ furlongs in 1:14.69. “This was just basically, don’t change anything that ain’t broken,” said Baze, who took over from regular rider Victor Espinoza, who rides top 3-year-old American Pharoah today at Oaklawn Park. “I talked to Victor yesterday before he left and he said to just get him out of the gate and keep him going. “We (Masochistic and eventual runner-up San Onofre) weren’t really going fast down the backside, like 22 and change and 44 and change, but we picked it up around the turn. When I asked him turning for home, he pinned his ears and took off.” Purchased privately by Los Pollos Hermanos Racing and Jay Em Ess Stable following a 2 ¼ length allowance win... ...

Roman Commander Gets First Winner

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 10, 2015) – California stallion Roman Commander was represented by his first winner on Friday when Ill Tell You What won the eighth race at Santa Anita. Ill Tell You What is a 3-year-old filly out of the Score Quick mare Quicksoni, was bred by Kendall Mann, is owned by Michael Cavanaugh, Mann and Gary Stute and is trained by Stute. She ran the 5 ½ furlongs in 1:05.29 and won by 3 ¼ lengths at odds of 6-1. ...

Hovdey on California Chrome

By Jay Hovdey, DRF.com There has been plenty of uninformed speculation about California Chrome’s English adventure and whether it will turn out to be excellent or not. Just for a change of pace, how about a little informed speculation on the subject? John Gosden knows the American racehorse better than any top British trainer working today. After all, he had to deal with them for the first decade of his career, during which time he trained champions Royal Heroine, a European transplant, and Bates Motel, who was American through and through. Back in his native Britain, Gosden has won the Epsom Derby, the Epsom Oaks, the 1000 and 2000 Guineas (for a total of 3,000 Guineas), two runnings of the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes, and four runnings of the English St. Leger. He was champion trainer there in 2012, and in 2014 he campaigned a pair of Cartier champions: the 3-year-old filly Taghrooda and the 3-year-old colt Kingman, who was also Horse of the Year. Both Kingman... ...

William Morey Jr. Passes at 74

ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 10, 2015) – Northern California trainer William J. Morey, Jr., a member of the California Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association Hall of Fame (class of 2014), died Friday morning at a rehabilitation facility in Los Altos after a long battle with cancer. Mr. Morey was 74. A native of San Francisco, Mr. Morey grew up in San Carlos and attended the races at Bay Meadows with his father. As a teenager, Mr. Morey got a job as a hot walker at the now defunct San Mateo racetrack. Mr. Morey received his official trainer’s license in 1970 and won his first race that year at Pleasanton with Crimson Flag. Mr. Morey would go on to become a mainstay in Northern California racing and, according to Equibase, amassed the following career statistics: 7,885 starts, 1,347 wins, 1,290 seconds, 1,180 thirds, and $22,415,416 in earnings. Mr. Morey won 67 stakes, including eight graded events. Mr. Morey’s top stakes stars were millionaires Dixie Dot Com (winner of four graded stakes... ...

Guy Code Enters San Pedro

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 9, 2015) – Guy Code is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $75,000 San Pedro Stakes for 3-year-olds at Santa Anita. Guy Code is by Blazonry, out of the Gone West mare Stayingalive, was bred by Running Horse Equine Training and Wellness Center, is owned by Heart Racing Stable and is trained by G.F. Almeida. He has two wins in eight starts, earnings of $77,100 and is coming off a second in a Mar. 5 optional claimer. ...

Pure Thrill Gets First Winner

ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 9, 2015) – California stallion Pure Thrill was represented by his first winner on Thursday when Fancy Brandi won the third race at Golden Gate. Fancy Brandi is a 3-year-old filly out of the Richly Blended mare Rich Reality, was bred by Gloria Morton and trained by Ed. Moger Jr. She ran the 5 ½ furlongs in 1:06.64 and won by a length at odds of 8-1. ...

Cal-breds Sweep Golden Gate Card

ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 9, 2015) – California-breds won all seven races at Golden Gate on Thursday. The winners were Beautiful Desert, bred by Harris Farms; Sourdough Sam, bred by John Nicoletti; Fancy Brandi, bred by Gloria Morton; Spending Plan, bred by Harris Farms; Double Switch, bred by Joseph P. Morey Jr. Revocable Trust; Tribal Delight, bred by Pam & Marty Wygod; Himalaya Star, bred by Kullminderpal Gill. ...

San Onofre vs. Masochistic, Spirit Rules

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 8, 2015) – California Cup Sprint winner Spirit Rules and fellow California-breds San Onofre and Masochistic are entered in Saturday’s $200,000 Grade II Kona Gold Stakes at Santa Anita. Masochistic is by Sought After, out of the Unusual Heat mare Trotinette, was bred by Francoise Dupuis & Louis Julian, is owned by Los Pollos Hermanos Racing and Jay Em Ess Stable and is trained by Ron Ellis. He has four wins in six starts, earnings of $223,850 and is coming off a win in a Feb. 28 optional claimer. 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 six starts, earnings of $195,040 and is coming off a second in the Jan. 24 Donald Valpredo California Cup Sprint. California Cup Sprint winner Spirit Rules is by Tribal Rule, out of the Danzatore mare Heavenly Lady, was bred by John and Allegra Ernst,... ...

Go West Marie in Las Cienegas

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 8, 2015) – Stakes winner Go West Marie and fellow California-breds Home Journey and Heavens Stairway are entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Grade III Las Cienegas Stakes at Santa Anita. Home Journey is by Good Journey, out of the Came Home mare Goodtobehome, was bred by Mark and Daryle Ann Giardano and John Elick, is owned by GGG Stabales and Russell Sarno and is trained by Mike Puype. She has four wins in 11 starts, earnings of $219,920 and is coming off a second in the Jan. 24 Sunshine Millions Filly & Mare Turf Sprint. 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. She has six wins in 18 starts, earnings of $462,520 and is coming off a three consecutive wins. Heavens Stairway is by Decarchy, out of the River Flyer mare Kind Friends, was bred by Joshua Litt and AJM Racing, is owned by AJM... ...

‘Chrome to Resume Training

By DRF.com CYPRESS, Calif. (Apr. 8, 2015) – California Chrome, second in the $10 million Dubai World Cup on March 28, is scheduled to resume training this weekend in Newmarket, England, in advance of a spring campaign in that country. Alan Sherman, assistant to his father, trainer Art Sherman, said California Chrome will be in light training with trainer Rae Guest before starting more extensive exercise next week. The main racing goal is the Group 1 Prince of Wales’s Stakes at 1 1/4 miles on turf June 17 at Royal Ascot, with a possible start in the Group 1 Lockinge Stakes at a straightaway mile May 16 at Newbury Racecourse. The winner of the Eclipse Award as the 2014 Horse of the Year, California Chrome will train at Guest’s facility this weekend before moving to the more expansive Newmarket training facilities next week, Alan Sherman said. Sherman has been in contact with Guest and plans to travel to England in early May to watch California Chrome train. Sherman and Guest... ...

Bill Garr Passes at 98

By DRF.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 7, 2015) — Bill Garr, a Southern California-based radio broadcaster whose shows included morning scratches, interviews, plus calls and results, died last week at the age of 98, according to his daughter, Jeannie Garr Roddy. Garr had been retired for years and had been in poor health, preventing him from coming to the track he loved most, Santa Anita. It was from there where, in the pre-internet days, fans would tune in to Garr in the morning to hear that day’s scratches, tune in at midday for the daily double, and tune in at night for the call of the feature race, followed by a recap of the day’s results. He’d also host a call-in show on Saturday mornings, all for years on local station KIEV in Southern California. Garr’s first live show from Santa Anita was broadcast on Dec. 26, 1959. For nearly four decades, he broadcast his show – a forerunner of today’s racing shows – from Santa Anita, Hollywood Park, and Del... ...

Uzziel, Melanistic in Santa Lucia

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 5, 2015) – California-breds Melanistic and Uzziel are entered in Friday’s $75,000 Santa Lucia Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita. Melanistic is by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Charismatic mare Back Door Girl, was bred by Ron Goodman, is owned by Abbondanza Racing and trained by Richard Baltas. She has 11 wins in 43 starts, earnings of $274,764 and is coming off a second in the Mar. 22 Dream of Summer. She broke her maiden in a $2,500 claimer at Los Alamitos in 2012. Uzziel is by Harlington, out of the Lord At War mare Pretti Woman, was bred by owners James and Tammy McKenney and is trained by J. Keith Desormeaux. She has four wins in 13 starts, earnings of $223,138 and is coming off a fourth in the Mar. 14 Santa Margarita. ...

Gimme Da Lute

Gimme Da Lute wins $200,000 Echo Eddie Stakes. ...

Sheer Pleasure

Sheer Pleasure wins $200,000 Evening Jewel Stakes. ...

Sheer Pleasure Enjoys Evening Jewel

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (April 4, 2015)–With a dramatic late surge, trainer Phil D’Amato’s Sheer Pleasure overtook Grand Yodeler to win Saturday’s $200,000 Evening Jewel Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-old fillies at Santa Anita by three quarters of a length. A 3-year-old California-bred filly by Birdonthewire, Sheer Pleasure was ridden by Tyler Baze and covered 6 ½ furlongs in 1:17.09. Owned by Little Red Feather Racing and RM Racing, Sheer Pleasure, who unseated her jockey after stumbling at the break of her most recent start on March 6, was off at 8-1 and paid $18.20, $9.60 and $6.20. Bred by Madera Thoroughbreds, LLC, Sheer Pleasure got her second win from four starts and with the winner’s cut of $110,000, increased her earnings to $147,450. Next to last going to the quarter pole in a field of 12 sophomore fillies bred or sired in California, Sheer Pleasure split horses five-wide turning for home and smoked home the final three sixteenths of a mile. “She kind of got... ...

Gimme Da Lute Wins Echo Eddie

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (April 4, 2015)–Heavily favored Gimme Da Lute sat second early and marched to an emphatic 5 ¼ length win in Saturday’s $200,000 Echo Eddie Stakes for 3-year-old Golden State Series eligibles at Santa Anita. Ridden by Martin Garcia and conditioned by Bob Baffert, the 3-year-old colt by Midnight Lute stopped the clock in a rapid 1:14.64 for 6 ½ furlongs. Off as the even money favorite in a field of nine sophomores bred or sired in California, Gimme Da Lute paid $4.00, $2.60 and $2.20. Owned by his breeders, Karl Watson, Mike Pegram and Paul Weitman, Gimme Da Lute notched his second win from three starts, with the only blemish on his resume a nose defeat against open maiden company in his first start on Jan. 31. With the winner’s share of $110,000, Gimme Da Lute’s earnings now stand at $158,160. “Winning in California is always great, especially having a Cal-bred here,” said Pegram, who also owned the colt’s sire, Midnight Lute, his dam,... ...

Forest Command Gets First Winner

ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 3, 2015) – Forest Command was represented by his first winner on Friday when Valdoura’s Command won the eighth race at Golden Gate. Valdoura’s Command, a 3-year-old filly, is out of the Valanour mare Valdoura and was bred by owner Four Quarters. She ran the six furlongs in 1:12.09 and won by 1 ½ lengths at odds of 8-1. ...

‘Chrome on Ambitious Path

By DRF.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 3, 2015) – California Chrome, the 2014 Horse of the Year, may have a 2015 campaign that more closely resembles that of a Formula 1 car than a top-class Thoroughbred racehorse. On Thursday, trainer Art Sherman said California Chrome is likely to have two starts in England in the coming months – the Lockinge Stakes at Newbury on May 16 and the Prince of Wales’s Stakes at Royal Ascot on June 17. Later in the year, majority owner Perry Martin has mentioned foreign races such as the Arc de Triomphe in Paris on Oct. 4 and the Japan Cup at Tokyo Racecourse on Nov. 29 as long-term possibilities. That could be subject to change, pending results in England, Sherman said. “I don’t think we’ll see this horse back here in California,” Sherman said between races at Santa Anita. “They’re talking about so many races. The horse will have to be a super horse to do what he wants.” California Chrome has run twice this year,... ...

Espinoza, Sherman Honored

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 3, 2015) — California Chrome‘s jockey and trainer, Victor Espinoza and Art Sherman, received the Hartack Award and the Neiman Award, respectively, at Santa Anita Park April 2. The Bill Hartack Charitable Foundation annually presents those awards to the jockey and trainer of the previous year’s Kentucky Derby (gr. I) winner. Espinoza thanked Sherman not only for putting him on California Chrome, but also for giving him mounts early in his career in Northern California. “Life is amazing,” said Espinoza in accepting the Hartack Award. “Who ever thought that I would win the Kentucky Derby (Presented by Yum! Brands!) for Art when I was riding in San Francisco? He was one of the trainers who helped me. I really wanted to win the Kentucky Derby for Art.” The Foundation was created to keep alive the memory of the late Bill Hartack, the Hall of Fame jockey who rode five Kentucky Derby winners. Contributions at the Hartack Award event each year benefit a charity, and Espinoza chose the City... ...

‘Chrome Arrives in England

By Bloodhorse.com NEWMARKET, England (Apr. 2, 2015) — California Chrome arrived in Newmarket April 1 and is settling in at the yard of trainer Rae Guest, who will supervise the U.S. Horse of the Year’s preparations for a tilt at Royal Ascot. After finishing second behind Prince Bishop in the Dubai World Cup (UAE-I), the 4-year-old son of Lucky Pulpit is expected to race in the June 17 Prince of Wales’s Stakes (ENG-I), but could first start May 16 in the J.T. Lockinge Stakes (ENG-I) at Newbury, where he would meet Breeders’ Cup Mile (gr. IT) winnerKarakontie. Art Sherman will remain the trainer of record for last year’s winner of the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) and Preakness Stakes (gr. I), while his son and assistant trainer Alan Sherman has scheduled a trip to Guest’s yard to check up on the stable star in about a month. BALAN: Sherman: Ascot Could be Rough on ‘Chrome’ Guest issued a positive update on the well-being of California Chrome following his arrival in Britain, according to the... ...

Long Hot Summer in Evening Jewel

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 1, 2015) – Stakes winner Long Hot Summer leads a field of 13 entered in Saturday’s $200,000 Evening Jewel Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-old fillies at Santa Anita. Generous Portion stakes winner Long Hot Summer is by Street Boss, out of the Stormy Atlantic mare Hotlantic, was bred by Harris Farms and Donald Valpredo, is owned by Anthony Fanticola and Joseph Scardino and is trained by Phil D’Amato. She has two wins in three starts, earnings of $145,580 and is coming off a second in a Mar. 19 optional claimer. 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 six starts, earnings of $114,680 and is coming off a fourth in the Feb. 7 California Oaks. Desert Thief is by Desert Code, out of the Cat Thief mare Daylight Thief, was bred by Caesar Dominguez and William Foltz, is owned... ...

Unbeaten Richard’s Boy in Echo Eddie

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 1, 2015) – Unbeaten Richard’s Boy leads a field of nine in Saturday’s $200,000 Echo Eddie Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-olds at Santa Anita Rocko’s Wheel is by Grazen, out of the Double Honor mare Honored Gold, was bred by Jimmy Ukegawa and Mike Mitchell, is owned by Little Red Feather Racing and Ukegawa and is trained by Phil D’Amato. He is coming off a maiden win Mar. 8 in his second start with earnings of $35,100. Pay the Fine is by Square Eddie, out of the Wild Rush mare Heckuva Rush, was bred by owner Reddam Racing and is trained by Doug O’Neill. He is a maiden making his third start with earnings of $11,450. McHeat is by Unusual Heat, out of the Half a Year mare Style of theYear, was bred by owner Madeline Auerbach and is trained by Barry Abrams. He is coming off a Mar. 22 maiden win in his fourth start with earnings of $38,330. Richard’s Boy is by Idiot... ...

Singing Kitty Opts for Oaks

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 1, 2015) – Multiple stakes winner Singing Kitty is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $400,000 Grade I Santa Anita Oaks for 3-year-old fillies. 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 and Peter Jeong and is trained by Matthew Chew. She has four wins in eight starts, earnings of $235,378 and is coming off a back-to-back stakes wins. ...

Spanish Queen Enters Providencia

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 1, 2015) – Spanish Queen is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $150,000 Grade III Providencia Stakes 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 Jack Nakkashian, Harry Bedarian & Harout Kamberian and is trained by Richard Baltas. She won her lone start Mar. 5 and has earnings of $33,600. ...

Martin Defends ‘Chrome Decision

By Bloodhorse.com The following is a statement from Perry Martin, majority owner of Horse of the Year California Chrome, regarding a decision to send the 4-year-old colt to compete at Royal Ascot following his runner-up finish in the Dubai World Cup (UAE-I). Managing the racing career of a stallion prospect is much different than managing a gelding or a mare. The considerations for selecting races are: the notoriety, surface, distance, and sphere of influence. Many in America overlook that last one. Breeding of horses is an international business with many regional niches. Stallion value can be increased by demonstrating superior performance at different distances and over different surfaces at elite venues. Royal Ascot is such an elite venue and we are honored to be invited. The opportunity is not without risk—however, I believe the risk to be minimal. Chrome’s bloodlines descend from A.P. Indy. This line is known for superior dirt performance. However it is looked down on by the regions of the world dominated by turf racing. Chrome’s stallion... ...

Lockinge Stakes on ‘Chrome Agenda

By DRF.com California Chrome has taken up residence in the Newmarket yard of trainer Rae Guest, will get a break from serious training, and could make his next start May 16 in the J.T. Lockinge Stakes at Newbury, where he would meet Breeders’ Cup Mile winner Karakontie. The decision to send California Chrome to England from Dubai, where he finished second Saturday night to Prince Bishop in the $10 million Dubai World Cup, apparently was made by majority owner Perry Martin. Minority owner Steve Coburn preferred an American campaign for the 2014 Horse of the Year, while trainer Art Sherman only found out Sunday morning that California Chrome would not be returning to California from Dubai. Sherman will remain the trainer of record for California Chrome. His son and assistant, Alan, is scheduled to travel to England and check on the colt in about one month, according to Guest. Robbie Mills, who works as an exercise rider for Sherman, will ride California Chrome when he resumes training later this month,... ...

Cal-bred Turf Extravaganza Apr. 26

ALBANY, Calif. (Mar. 31, 2015) – The California-bred Turf Extravaganza will be held Sunday, Apr. 26 at Golden Gate. The inaugural event features two stakes races and two allowances races with purses totaling nearly $275,000: $100,000 Campanile Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-old fillies at one mile on turf. $100,000 Silky Sullivan Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-olds at one mile on turf. $37,000 Turf Allowance for Cal-bred or Cal-sired fillies 3-and-up. $37,000 Turf Allowance for Cal-bred or Cal-sired 3-and-up. Come and join us to celebrate Cal-breds in the beautiful and private Directors’ Room. The Directors’ Room offers all the amenities of the Turf Club with the addition of a private dining area, private restrooms, delicious buffet, private auto tote wagering and a private bar. Guests of the Directors’ Room are also treated to a welcome glass of champagne to begin your day at the races in style. The price of the party is $100 per person or tables of four or six are available. The price includes... ...

‘Ship and Win’ Expands Thursday

By DRF.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 31, 2015) – A program to financially reward owners and trainers for bringing race-ready horses to Del Mar expands to the entire Southern California circuit on Thursday. Known as “Ship and Win,” the program has two levels of incentives – a 30 percent purse bonus in a horse’s first start in an overnight race and a $1,000 appearance fee for a horse’s first start in Southern California. Horses are eligible if they have not raced in California in the last year and are not first-time starters. The incentives will be available at Del Mar, Los Alamitos, and Santa Anita. “This is a way to encourage owners who were thinking of shipping a horse here,” said Rick Hammerle, Santa Anita’s racing secretary. “Now that it’s year-round, you don’t have to wait for a certain time frame.” In 2011, the program’s first year, 107 horses from outside of California were eligible for the bonuses at the Del Mar summer meeting, and that rose to 187 horses last... ...

Guest: ‘Great Honor’ to Have ‘Chrome

By Paulick Report Rae Guest may not be well-known to horse racing fans in North America, but that may change in the next few months. The Newmarket-based trainer has been put in charge of day-to-day conditioning of U.S. Horse of the Year California Chrome, and will oversee the colt’s preparations for a possible start at Royal Ascot in June. “It’s a great honor to have him and we’re very lucky to be that close to a Kentucky Derby winner,” Guest told Racing UK. While a tilt at Royal Ascot had been hinted at by the ownership connections of California Chrome, the decision to move the dual classic winner to England so early – and out of the care of regular trainer, Art Sherman, came as a surprise to many. Guest, a former jockey who has been training since 1988, indicated that the transfer of ‘Chrome’ to his stable came about through Chris Mills, who has horses with Guest. Mills’ son, Robbie, worked for Art Sherman in California a few years... ...

Equibase Adds Voided Claim Info

From Equibase LEXINGTON, Ky. (Mar. 30, 2015) — Equibase Company announced today that, effective immediately, it will include in its data feeds, result charts and Equibase past performance products information on claims that were subsequently voided. The voided claim information is also being made available to tracks for inclusion in race programs nationwide. “As specific voided claim rules have become more prevalent at racetracks in North America, it made sense to broaden the dissemination of the information as a service to the betting public,” said Hank Zeitlin, president and chief operating officer of Equibase. Claimed horses, which are denoted with a ‘c’ at the end of the race information within Equibase past performances, now include a ‘v’ to indicate when the claim was subsequently voided. The result charts on equibase.com are denoted with “claim voided” text and also include the recorded reason for the voided claim. Equibase also announced that effective immediately result charts available on equibase.com now include the full race conditions for all races. ...

Sherman Dissents on Ascot Call

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 29, 2015) — Trainer Art Sherman didn’t give the decision to send Horse of the Year California Chrome to England a ringing endorsement the morning of March 29. Hours after it was announced the 4-year-old’s owners intend on sending him to race at Royal Ascot, the California-based trainer—who also wasn’t shy about expressing his opposition to sending the colt to Dubai after last year’s Breeders’ Cup—went on the Roger Stein Show, a radio program in the Los Angeles area. BALAN: California Chrome Headed to Royal Ascot “(Majority owner Perry Martin) thinks the horse will do good because he’s won on the grass, but it was a different grass,” Sherman said on the radio, referring to California Chrome’s victory in the Hollywood Derby (gr. IT) in November at Del Mar, his only start on turf to date. “They don’t realize the horses that are going to be involved, they go (clockwise), he’s got to learn to go the opposite way, and everything. It’s going to be... ...

‘Chrome Heading to Ascot

By Sacramento Bee SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Mar. 29, 2015) — California Chrome will take the long way home. After a second-place finish in the $10 million Dubai World Cup, California Chrome will go directly to Newmarket, England, to prepare for a start at Royal Ascot, according to co-owner Perry Martin. “I’ve talked to (trainer) Art (Sherman) and I’ve decided we are going to Royal Ascot directly from here,” Martin said via e-mail after Saturday’s World Cup in the United Arab Emirates. “We will train at Newmarket were (European champion) Frankel trained. Then, we’ll do our best at Royal Ascot.” Making only his second start of his 4-year-old season, California Chrome finished second in the World Cup to Prince Bishop, who is owned by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum. The runner-up effort was still worth $2 million for California Chrome. He is owned by Perry and Denise Martin of Yuba City and Steve and Carolyn Coburn of Topaz Lake, Nev. “We are so proud of Chrome,” Perry Martin added. “With everything... ...

‘Chrome Second in Dubai World Cup

By DRF.com DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (Mar. 28, 2015) – Prince Bishop ran in the 2011 World Cup, the edition won by Victoire Pisa, and finished 10th. He ran in the 2012 World Cup, with Monterosso leading a local sweep in the synthetic-surface race, and finished seventh. The next year on World Cup Night, he ran up the track in the Sheema Classic, and last year, in his third crack at the World Cup, Prince Bishop finished ninth, beaten more than 11 lengths. The switch from the old Tapeta all-weather track to dirt this year at Meydan figured to do Prince Bishop no favors, and surely, at age 8, time was nipping at his hooves. Yet there was Prince Bishop on Saturday night at Meydan, running past the 2014 U.S. Horse of the Year, California Chrome, to keep the World Cup trophy at home for the fourth time in the six years of racing at Meydan. California Chrome’s payoff was a cool $2 million. He also battled bravely in defeat,... ...

Thorn Song Gets First Winner

From Harris Farms COALINGA, Calif. (Mar. 28, 2015) — The late Harris Farms stallion Thorn Song, a multiple Grade I winner, was represented by his first winner when Dream Serenade won the second race at Los Alamitos Saturday night. Dream Serenade, a filly out of the Stormy Atlantic mare Kalookan Dream, was bred by her owner Jon P. Denson and graduated in her fifth lifetime start. Bred in Kentucky by Pinnacle Racing LLC and Taylor Made Farm Inc., Thorn Song won eight of 29 starts including the Shadwell Turf Mile S.-G1 and the Shoemaker Mile S.-G1, and earned $1,132,700. Racing for Zayat Stables from 2005-2009, the big gray was trained by Dale Romans and Mike Mitchell. He sired four crops (including foals of 2015) while standing at Harris Farms. ...

Eddington’s Secret Circle Dubai Winner

From Ballena Vista Farm DUBAI, UAE (March 28, 2015) — Dual Breeders’ Cup champion Secret Circle struck the front three-wide with a quarter mile to race, and gamely held off a late challenge to win the $2 million Dubai Golden Shaheen-G1 by a head. With the victory, the 6-year-old son of California stallion Eddington collected $1.2 million, increasing his lifetime earnings to $3,670,790, and further embellishing a superb record of eight wins, six seconds and one third in 16 starts for owners Mike Pegram, Paul Weitman and Karl Watson. His time of 1:10.64 for the 1,200-meter event established the track record for the new Meydan dirt track and gave trainer Bob Baffert and Victor Espinoza their first victories in the Grade I event. ...

Sundarban Represented by First Winner

ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 27, 2015) – California stallion Sundarban was represented by his first winner Friday when Howdy won the third race at Santa Anita, a maiden special weight for Cal-breds. Howdy is a 3-year-old colt out of the Momentum mare Foxy Babe, was bred by Crystal Valley Farm, is owned by Ciaglia Racing and Crystal Valley Farm and is trained by Peter Eurton. Howdy ran the mile in 1:36.85 and won by 5 ¼ lengths at odds of 2-1. ...

Cal-bred Pair in Santana

ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 27, 2015) – Storm Fighter and fellow California-bred stakes winner Rousing Sermon are entered in Sunday’s $75,000 Santana Mile Stakes at Santa Anita. Storm Fighter is by Stormin Fever, out of the Deputy Commander mare Throne Seeker, was bred by Larry Mabee, is owned by Golden Eagle Farm and is trained by Bruce Headley. He has three wins in 10 starts, earnings of $164,218 and is coming off a sixth in a Feb. 6 optional claimer. Rousing Sermon is by Lucky Pulpit, out of the Awesome Again mare Rousing Again, was bred by owners Mr. and Mrs. Larry Williams and is trained by Jerry Hollendorfer. He has six wins in 32 starts, earnings of $816,042 and is coming off a Feb. 20 optional claiming win. He is also entered in Saturday’s Tokyo City Cup. ...

‘Chrome Becomes Worldwide Brand

By Bloodhorse.com DUBAI, U.A.E. (Mar. 27, 2015) — California Chrome is rapidly morphing from “California rock star” status to “worldwide brand” and, if he does his part in the Dubai World Cup (UAE-I) on March 28, his connections are ready to give him the stage that status would deserve. Still, they admit they a little humbled and a little awed about it all. For trainer Art Sherman, a former jockey and veteran of decades of day-in, day-out racing, California Chrome’s victories in the 2014 Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands and Preakness Stakes (both gr. I) were the fulfillment of a dream. “It has definitely been a dream come true for us,” Sherman said during a news conference at the plush, sprawling Meydan Racecourse complex shortly after arriving in Dubai. “You know, growing up in America, the one race you want to win is the Kentucky Derby and he did that. And everything else has kind of been a bonus. “It has just been an amazing ride. We don’t have all... ...

‘Chrome Likely Dubai Favorite

By DRF.com DUBAI, U.A.E. (Mar. 26, 2015) — The story was told a thousand times during the 2014 Triple Crown, how a young Art Sherman had traveled by train from California to Louisville with the great Swaps in 1955. The trip Sherman took this week offered less grist for myth. It traded a dim train car smelling of horse for a business-class sleeper seat and all the free champagne one could stomach. Thousands more miles were covered in far less time, and instead of mainly glory waiting at the end of the line, there sits a vast pot of dollars, the biggest in the world, in fact. They would have it no other way here in this posh emirate. The lovable, affable Sherman blew into Dubai this week and found waiting his trusty assistant and son, Alan, the minor celebrity exercise rider Willie Delgado, and yes, the horse, too. California Chrome will try Saturday night to win the $10 million Dubai World Cup. The biggest American equine celebrity since Zenyatta... ...

Rousing Sermon in Tokyo City Cup

ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 25, 2015) – Multiple stakes winner Rousing Sermon and fellow California-bred Image of Joplin are entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Grade III Tokyo City Cup Stakes at Santa Anita. Rousing Sermon is by Lucky Pulpit, out of the Awesome Again mare Rousing Again, was bred by owners Mr. and Mrs. Larry Williams and is trained by Jerry Hollendorfer. He has six wins in 32 starts, earnings of $816,042 and is coming off a Feb. 20 optional claimer win. Image of Joplin is by Southern Image, out of the Bernstein mare Sensitive Soul, was bred by Dahlberg Farms, is owned by Lucas Downs and trained by Matthew Chew. He has four wins in 19 starts, earnings of $100,657 and is coming off a fourth in a Feb. 25 optional claimer. ...

Barretts Participates in CHRB Testing

From Barretts ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 25, 2015) — As part of a pilot out-of-competition testing (OOCT) program, the California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) will be collecting hair, urine and blood samples from horses to be sold at this year’s Barretts May Sale. This pilot program will not impact the Conditions of Sale for the May venue, and efforts will be made to minimize the inconvenience to both horses and consignors. The test results will not affect the sale of any horses at this auction. “We are pleased to be working closely with the CHRB as it explores a new OOCT standard for the sales industry” said Barretts General manager Kim Lloyd. “The preservation of the integrity and credibility of sales programs is a top priority. Barretts will assist the CHRB with the process of introducing and implementing the OOCT pilot protocols at the upcoming May Sale.” ...

Big Macher, Baltas Enjoy Dubai

By DRF.com DUBAI, U.A.E. (Mar. 25, 2015) — Claim a maiden for $20,000, and the last thing a person can realistically expect is to have a future stakes winner. Or a future Grade 1 stakes winner. Or a horse good enough to send to Dubai for Saturday’s $2 million Golden Shaheen at Meydan Racecourse. All of that so-called logic has vanished in the last 20 months for owners Tom Mansor and Brendan Bakir and trainer Richard Baltas. Big Macher, their former maiden claimer, is a Grade 1 winner starting in the Golden Shaheen. “He’s been nothing but a blessing,” Baltas said last week before traveling to Dubai. “He has defied the odds.” On Saturday, Big Macher will be one of three American-based runners in the Golden Shaheen, including the New York stakes winner Salutos Amigos and Secret Circle, who won the 2013 Breeders’ Cup Sprint at Santa Anita. :: DUBAI WORLD CUP: Get PPs, watch Saturday’s Meydan card live Big Macher has won 6 of 15 starts and $557,678, highlighted... ...

‘Chrome Draws Outside Post

By DRF.com DUBAI, U.A.E. (Mar. 25, 2015) — The California-bred with the humble pedigree and the first-time, one-in-a-million owners always has been a racing outsider, and so it will be Saturday night at Meydan Racecourse when California Chrome breaks from post 9 in the $10 million Dubai World Cup. A final field of nine was announced and post positions drawn late Wednesday afternoon at Meydan, and California Chrome will be loaded last into post 9. There does not appear to be a great deal of pace in the World Cup, and though inside posts have done better than outside during the Meydan racing season, California Chrome should be just fine provided he and jockey Victor Espinoza break cleanly and secure a favorable forward position before hitting the first turn. “The horse has some serious speed,” co-owner Steve Coburn said after the draw. “He can get out there.” :: DUBAI WORLD CUP: Get PPs, watch Saturday’s Meydan card live Outside may well be better than inside for California Chrome, the derailment... ...

Sierra Sunset’s First Winner

By Bloodhorse.com MEXICO CITY, Mexico (Mar. 24, 2015) — Enrique Cantarell Diaz’s Amanecer Serrano was a convincing 2 1/4-length victor March 21 at Hipodromo de las Americas in Mexico and became the first winner for California-based freshman sire Sierra Sunset. The Mexico-bred chestnut colt was guided by William Antongeorgi III and was timed in :27.80 for the 2 1/2-furlong contest that drew seven contenders. His dam is Big Daddy’s Lady, by The Daddy. Sierra Sunset, a 10-year-old son of Bertrando out of Toot Sweet, by Pirate’s Bounty, stands for a 2015 fee of $2,500 at Paradise Road Ranch in near Tracy, Calif. He has 30 2-year-olds in his first crop. Winner of the 2008 Rebel Stakes (gr. II) at Oaklawn Park among four stakes winners overall, including the 2007 California Cup Juvenile at Santa Anita Park, Sierra Sunset compiled a 5-3-1 career line from 14 starts and bankrolled lifetime earnings of $459,696. Read more on BloodHorse.com: http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/90866/colt-first-winner-for-ca-based-sierra-sunset#ixzz3VMaaZ5v6 ...

Roy Guinnane

By Emily Shields When the late horse trainer John Roche asked Roy Guinnane to claim a horse with him, Guinnane felt in over his head. “I didn’t even know what claiming was,” Guinnane said. Not one to sit back and let an opportunity pass him by, Guinnane dove in and returned home with both a newly claimed Thoroughbred and a Quarter Horse. “Within three months I had 13 horses,” he said. “Then I was buying weanlings and yearlings, and traveling to Kentucky to get mares in foal.” Guinnane, a 59-year-old resident of San Francisco, went from a racing novice to a regular at the sales in just a short while. Now he is represented on the track by dual stakes winner Marino’s Wild Cat, maintains a string of 25 horses, and runs a construction company in Northern California. His GCCI Thoroughbreds stands for Guinnane Construction Company Inc., which is his livelihood outside the game. “I actually love working,”Guinnane said. “I’m not one of these people who sits behind a desk... ...

NTRA Legislative Report Online

From NTRA WASHINGTON, D.C. (Mar. 24, 2015) — Click here to view the 2014 NTRA Legislative Action Campaign Annual Report. Features of the report include: · List of 2014 contributors · Federal legislative summary Contributor comments Photo collage of NTRA-attended industry events · Videos that explain NTRA fundraising programs · Contributor/membership benefits summary The NTRA proudly serves the industry on Capitol Hill. Our federal legislative team is there every day to advocate for the Thoroughbred racing and breeding industry. Thank you to all who supported this effort through the NTRA’s fundraising programs in 2014. Please forward this annual report to friends and colleagues who share your enthusiasm for our industry. ...

Dubai Race on Fox Sports 1

From The Jockey Club DUBAI, U.A.E. (Mar. 24, 2015) — How will Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner California Chrome fare when he takes on a field of international standouts in the Dubai World Cup? A national television audience will find out Saturday, March 28, when The Jockey Club Tour on FOX Sports 1 airs the world’s richest race, the $10 million Dubai World Cup from Meydan Racecourse, for a second consecutive year. The show will air from 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. EDT on FOX Sports 1, and FOX Sports Go. The telecast will feature live interviews conducted in Dubai by analyst Simon Bray as well as commentary and color from Greg Wolf, Richard Migliore, Andy Serling and Alyssa Ali in the FOX Sports studio in Los Angeles. “The Dubai World Cup generated the largest audience we had for our FOX series last year, and we expect even greater interest this year due to the presence of a horse as well known and as popular as California Chrome,” said Jason Wilson,... ...

‘Chrome’s Tuesday in Dubai

By Bloodhorse.com DUBAI, U.A.E. (Mar. 24, 2015) — With exercise rider Dana Barnes in tow, Dubai World Cup contender California Chrome breezed a half mile early Tuesday morning in :50 over a fast Meydan main track. “He got the last eighth in 11 seconds,” said Alan Sherman, assistant and son of trainer Art Sherman. “We just wanted to stretch his legs. If he’s not fit by now, it’s too late.” With all six of his wins as a 3-year-old coming against restricted company, California Chrome took full advantage of his sophomore season to claim Eclipse Award honors as Horse of the Year and champion 3-year-old male, but Sherman believes he can be as successful now that he is facing older horses. “He’s not a real heavy horse but I do think he’s grown into his 4-year-old season and that he’s a lot stronger,” Sherman said. “I’m just glad the owners (Steve Coburn and Perry Martin) decided to run him another year.” Jockey Victor Espinoza, who has partnered with Chrome for... ...

‘Chrome’s Monday in Dubai

By Bloodhorse.com DUBAI, U.A.E. (Mar. 23, 2015) — Steve Coburn and Perry Martin’s California Chrome, the likely Dubai World Cup (UAE-I) favorite, continued his preparation for Saturday’s race by galloping 2,400 meters over the Meydan dirt oval on Monday morning. According to assistant trainer Alan Sherman, the 4-year-old son of Lucky Pulpit will breeze a quarter mile Tuesday morning at approximately 5 a.m. local time “He seems to be handling the track well but we will know a little more after the work,” Sherman said. “He has run well on every track he has ever been on so it’s not a big concern.” A nine-time winner with grade I wins in the Santa Anita Derby, Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Hollywood Derby on his resume, California Chrome would eclipse the US$10 million mark in career earnings with a win on Saturday. “I’m just glad the owners decided to run him another year,” Sherman said. “The Dubai World Cup has always been on (co-owner Martin) Perry’s radar.” Steve Coburn and 77-year-old... ...

Wild in the Saddle

Wild in the Saddle wins $100,000 Dream of Summer Stakes ...

Wild in the Saddle in Romp

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (March 22, 2015)–Odds-on favorite Wild in the Saddle made short work of three California-bred or sired fillies and mares in taking Sunday’s $100,000 Dream of Summer Stakes for Golden State Series eligible by 6 ¼ lengths under Rafael Bejarano. Trained by Richard Baltas, the 6-year-old mare by Silic was attentive to a fast pace and took charge midway around the far turn en route to getting a flat mile in 1:36.73. Ridden by Elvis Trujillo, Sudden Sunday, who broke from the inside, was hustled to a narrow advantage over the winner into and around the Club House turn, but Wild in the Saddle opened up leaving the quarter pole and the Dream of Summer was over. “The trainer told me to go to the lead, but when I saw Sudden Sunday rushing too much into the first turn, I just decided to let her go,” said Bejarano. “My horse doesn’t have to be on the lead and the way she was going I didn’t... ...

Ashleyluvssugar

Ashleyluvssugar wins $200,000 Grade II San Luis Rey Stakes. ...

Ashleyluvssugar Wins San Luis Rey

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (March 21, 2015)–In his first-ever graded stakes assignment, California-bred Ashleyluvssugar out-dueled heavily favored Finnegans Wake to win Saturday’s Grade II, $200,000 San Luis Rey Stakes by 2 ¼ lengths under Gary Stevens. Trained by Peter Eurton, Ashleyluvssugar bested seven other older horses in negotiating 1 ½ miles on turf in 2:25.78. Well back in fifth position into the Club House turn, Ashleyluvssugar, who came off of an allowance win going 1 1/8 miles on turf Feb. 5, raced as a team with the favorite three-wide around the far turn and when Stevens went to his left handed stick at the furlong pole, the 4-year-old gelding by Game Plan seemingly found another gear and spurted clear. “I watched his last race, when Mike (Smith, who was away today to ride at Turfway Park) was on him and he battled back then too,” said Stevens. “Those were different kinds of horses but he really came back for Mike when he went left handed with the whip.... ...

Eddy Gourmet Wins at Laurel

LAUREL, Md. (Mar. 21, 2015) – Eddy Gourmet, a Maryland-bred daughter of California stallion Eddington, won Saturday’s $83,500 Conniver Stakes for fillies and mares at Laurel Park. Eddy Gourmet has six wins in 25 starts, earnings of $289,110 and was coming off a Feb. 8 optional claiming win. This was her stakes debut. She ran the seven furlongs in 1:23.50 and won by 7 ¾ lengths at odds of 7-2. ...

Racing Dates in Dispute

By DRF.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 20, 2015) — Los Alamitos and Santa Anita are trying to settle a conflict over which track will host racing on the last weekend of September. Los Alamitos is scheduled to hold a September meeting on behalf of the Los Angeles County Fair from Thursday, Sept. 10 through Friday, Sept. 25, but is seeking to add Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 26 and 27. Santa Anita is scheduled to open its autumn meeting on Sept. 26. The track was granted that weekend of racing when the California Horse Racing Board issued a calendar for the 2014 and 2015 seasons in September 2013. Racing dates for the last Saturday and Sunday of September were issued to Santa Anita with the expectation the Breeders’ Cup would be held in Southern California this year. The Breeders’ Cup later awarded the two days of championship races to Keeneland in Kentucky. As a result, Los Alamitos has asked the racing board to extend its September meeting through Sept. 27. The track... ...

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