Sparkman on Warren’s Veneda

Mar 20, 2015 Posted by CTBA In News

By DRF.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 20, 2015) — A good horse can come from anywhere, and have any kind of pedigree. But good horses occur far more rarely from unfashionable pedigrees than from those replete with the heavy black type of graded stakes winners. That is why the California Chromes of our small, insular world make such wonderful, populist stories. It also is why we must celebrate the Grade 1 success of horses such as Warren’s Veneda, winner of the Santa Margarita Handicap on March 14 at Santa Anita. Warren’s Veneda is the best horse bred by California businessman Benjamin C. Warren, who was once the largest Thoroughbred breeder in California. He bred more than 100 foals per year in the first decade of the 21st century but got out of the breeding business in 2012. Warren’s Veneda comes from the penultimate crop of horses bred by Warren, and her pedigree is typical of the cheaply bred horses his operation generally produced. Her sire, Affirmative, was once believed to be... ...

‘Chrome to Work Once in Dubai

By DRF.com DUBAI, U.A.E. (Mar. 20, 2015) — Alan Sherman, the son and main assistant of trainer Art Sherman, traveled with California Chrome to Louisville for the Kentucky Derby, to Baltimore for the Preakness, and to Long Island, N.Y., for the Belmont Stakes. The three Triple Crown stops all have their particular charms and quirks. But none would have prepared him for his latest trip with the 2014 Horse of the Year – to Meydan Racecourse in Dubai. “It’s different, I’ll say that,” Sherman said by phone Friday morning from Dubai. But good news: California Chrome seems no different to Sherman. He and 15 other American-based horses arrived in Dubai on Wednesday after a 19-hour journey, and California Chrome took the trip without issue. “He seems to be good,” Sherman said. “He’s a good traveler, and he’s in good shape.” California Chrome is one of two U.S.-based horses scheduled to start in the $10 million Dubai World Cup next Saturday at Meydan. Also slated for the big race is Lea,... ...

Sweet Marini in Dream of Summer

ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 19, 2015) – Stakes winner Sweet Marini is the linely favorite in Sunday’s $100,000 Dream of Summer Stakes for Golden State Series eligible fillies and mares at Santa Anita. Anniversary Kitty is by Tribal Rule, out of the Bertrando mare Justanotherblonde, was bred by Mike Abraham, is owned by Highlander Racing Stable and West Point Thoroughbreds and is trained by Craig Dollase. She has two wins in seven starts, earnings of $131,058 and is coming off a third in a Feb. 28 optional claimer. Sudden Sunday is by Bertrando, out of the General Meeting mare Sunday Dress, was bred by owner Nick Alexander and is trained by Steve Miyadi, She has five wins in 24 starts, earnings of $193,039 and is coming off a Mar. 13 optional claiming win. 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 42 starts, earnings of... ...

CTBA at Ag Day in Sacramento

Ag Day photo gallery: SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Mar. 18, 2015) – Ag Day at the California Capitol was held Wednesday and California Thoroughbred Breeders Association was there, representing breeders and offering legislators information on the vital role the Thoroughbred industry plays in the state’s agricultural economy. CTBA past Presidents Sue Greene and Leigh Ann Howard, along with event coordinator Christy Chapman promoted the sport and educated visitors to the CTBA booth on general horse facts and Thoroughbred racing and breeding in California. Among the legislators that visited the booth were Assemblymembers Jim Frazier, Matt Harper, Brian Maienschein, Chad Mayes, Brian Jones, Marc Levine and Rudy Salas; Senators Tom Berryhill, Mike Morrell, Ted Gaines, Frank Bigelow, Jim Nielson; Speaker of the House Toni Atkins; Secretary of Agriculture Karen Ross and CTBA lobbyist Robyn Black. Legislators were able to visit with an 18-day-old orphan by Eddington, out of the mare Mistical Bel, being nursed by 20-year-old surrogate mare Rollete. ...

McGary Returns as Fairs Announcer

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Mar. 19 2015) — John McGary is returning as the track announcer for the California Authority of Racing Fairs in 2015. McGary, who called races on the fair circuit from 2000-05, will be in the booth for the Alameda County Fair (Pleasanton), California State Fair (Sacramento), Humboldt County Fair (Ferndale), San Joaquin County Fair (Stockton), and Big Fresno Fair (Fresno). He will also prepare the morning lines for each meet and host handicapping seminars. “I thoroughly enjoyed my time at the fairs and consider myself very fortunate to be able to return,” McGary said. “I’m excited to be back.” McGary currently serves as track announcer at Hollywood Gaming at Mahoning Valley Race Course in Ohio and has more than 20 years experience as a racetrack announcer, publicity professional, odds maker, and paddock race analyst at several tracks including Evangeline Downs Racetrack & Casino, where he worked from 2005-14. “We are pleased to introduce John as the voice of the Northern California racing fair circuit,” said Christopher Korby, executive... ...

Ashleyluvssugar in San Luis Rey

ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 18, 2015), Ashleyluvssugar is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s 200,000 Grade II San Luis Rey Stakes at Santa Anita. Ashleyluvssugar is by Game Plan, out of the Urgent Request mare Ashley’s Folly, was bred by owners Estate of Alesia, BranJam Stables & Ciaglia Racing and is trained by Peter Eurton. He has four wins in nine starts, earnings of $215,504 and is coming off a Feb. 5 optional claiming win. ...

Temple Keys Enters Pasadena

ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 18, 2015) – Temple Keys is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $75,000 Pasadena Stakes for 3-year-olds at Santa Anita. Temple Keys is by Temple City, out of the Fusaichi Pegasus mare Camas Creek, was bred by Linda Madsen& Joy Seifert, is owned by JK Racing and trained by Thomas Proctor. He has one win in five starts, earnings of $49,810 and is coming off a Feb. 13 maiden win. ...

Warren’s Knockout Seeks Repeat

SUNLAND PARK, N.M. (Mar. 18, 2015) – Defending champion Warren’s Knockout and fellow California-bred Omar are entered in Sunday’s $100,000 Bill Thomas Memorial Stakes at Sunland Park. Warren’s Knockout is by Stormed, out of the Doneraile Court mare Now My Precious, was bred by Benjamin Warren, is owned by Len Schermer and trained by Justin Evans. He has 10 wins in 36 starts, earnings of $428,757 and is coming off a fourth in the Sept. 7 Premier Cup. He won this race last year and was second in 2013. Omar is by Bertrando, out of the Beau Genius mare Perfect Doll, was bred by Omar Aldabbagh, is owned by Randy Exelby, Running Rabbit, Rick and TG Racing and is trained by Robertino Diodoro. He has eight wins in 24 starts, earnings of $148,017 and is coming off a third in the Feb. 14 Phoenix Gold Cup. ...

No Tricks for Jack in Henson

SUNLAND PARK, N.M. (Mar. 18, 2015) – No Tricks for Jack is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s 100,000 Harry Henson Handicap for fillies and mares at Sunland Park. No Tricks for Jack is by Jackpot, out of the Mazel Trick mare Swift Trick, was bred by Vessels Stallion Farm, is owned by J. Kirk and Judy Robison and is trained by Henry Dominguez. She has 13 wins in 42 starts, earnings of $191,552 and is coming off a three consecutive wins. ...

Bodhisattva Enters Private Terms

LAUREL, Md. (Mar. 18, 2015) – Bodhisattva is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Private Terms 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 nine starts, earnings of $85,095 and is coming off a fourth in the Feb. 16 Miracle Wood. ...

Hovdey on ‘Chrome, Dubai

By Jay Hovdey, DRF.com CYPRESS, Calif. (Mar. 18, 2015) — With the mixed feelings of a man about to plunge into the dark unknown, Art Sherman bade a temporary farewell to California Chrome on Tuesday morning at Los Alamitos while keeping clear of the crew loading the 2014 Horse of the Year onto a van parked in a remote corner of the stables. “I get too nervous with all that kind of stuff,” Sherman said. “It’s for the best if I just stay out of their way. Otherwise, it might be contagious.” Sherman was dealing with what was merely the first leg of a long journey to Dubai, where California Chrome will compete in the 20th running of the $10 million Dubai World Cup on the evening of March 28, Dubai time (11 hours later than Pacific time). California Chrome will be running a counterclockwise 2,000 meters over a recently installed sand-based main track. The money needs no conversion, although the 2,000 meters was a different story. “Just a shade... ...

‘Chrome Leads Dubai Contingent

By DRF.com DUBAI, U.A.E. (mAR. 18, 2015) — They’re back. After basically saying thanks but no thanks in 2014, when a mere three horses made the trip, U.S.-based horses will travel en masse for the March 28 Dubai World Cup card at Meydan Racecourse. Prospective fields for the races provided Tuesday by Dubai Racing Club officials include 16 American horses who were to ship overseas Tuesday. The return of dirt racing this year at Meydan, which had employed an all-weather racing surface since its opening in 2010, spurred the increased participation. The American contingent includes two starters for the $10 million Dubai World Cup, California Chrome and Lea. Donn Handicap winner Constitution had been an intended World Cup runner before injuring a shin, and 2014 Breeders’ Cup Classic winner Bayern might have traveled as well had he recovered in time from a foot problem. Still, California Chrome and Lea figure to be the favorites in an expected nine-horse field that also includes two former American runners, Candy Boy and Ron... ...

CHRB Meeting Canceled

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Mar. 16, 2015) — The California Horse Racing Board monthly meeting that was scheduled for this Thursday, March 19, at Cal Expo has been canceled. The next scheduled meeting of the Board will be held April 16 at Golden Gate Fields. ...

Warren’s Veneda

Warren’s Veneda wins $400,000 Grade I Santa Margarita Stakes. ...

Go West Marie

Go West Marie wins $100,000 Irish O’Brien Stakes. ...

Warren’s Veneda Romps in Grade I

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (March 14, 2015)–California-bred Warren’s Veneda firmly established herself as the West Coast’s top older filly or mare with a sensational 7 ¼ length win in Saturday’s Grade I, $400,000 Santa Margarita Stakes, as she negotiated 1 1/8 miles under Tyler Baze in 1:48.73. Conditioned by Craig Lewis, the 5-year-old chestnut mare by Affirmative registered her third win in-a-row and followed up on a career-best 2 ¾ length win in the Grade II Santa Maria Stakes on Feb. 14. Drawn outside in a field of six older fillies and mares, Warren’s Veneda was hung three-wide while last into the Club House turn and cruised to the leaders while in-hand under Baze going to the far turn. Three-wide turning for home she lengthened her considerable stride and put her competition away with a furlong to run. “The last three times I’ve ridden her, she just does things so easy,” said Baze. “I haven’t gotten to the bottom of her yet. There’s so much horse... ...

Go West Marie Knows the Way

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 14, 2015) — ”It was an ugly race on my part, but a great result.” So said Hall of Fame jockey Gary Stevens following Go West Marie’s half length victory in Saturday’s $100,000 Irish O’Brien Stakes for Golden State Series eligible fillies and mares at Santa Anita, a race in which the California-bred filly trained by Eddie Truman overcame seemingly insurmountable traffic trouble en route to negotiating 6 ½ furlongs down the hillside turf course in 1:12.90. “I didn’t think she’d overcome that traffic that late in the race,” said Truman. “No shot. Gary was just waiting (to find an opening). Any time, right?…and then when they closed the hole coming across the dirt, what’s he going to do? He tried out, he tried in again, and then, zoom. That’s a race horse. What a heart. She is something.” Go West Marie was bred by Summer Mayberry out of the Swiss Yodeler mare Marie Rose. Off at 7-5 in a field of seven... ...

‘Chrome Records Last Dubai Prep

By Bloodhorse.com CYPRESS, Calif. (Mar. 13, 2015) — Los Alamitos Race Course‘s most famous resident ran over his home track one last time March 13 in preparation for the world’s richest race. Out on the track all alone, as has been customary since his Triple Crown run, California Chrome worked seven furlongs in an easy 1:23 4/5 in front of a group of about 50 adoring “Chromies,” many sporting the purple and green stable colors of Steve Coburn and Perry Martin’s DAP Racing. It was the final local workout for the 4-year-old son of Lucky Pulipt before shipping to Dubai March 17 for the $10 million Dubai World Cup (UAE-I) coming up March 28 at Meydan Racecourse. “He worked excellent today,” trainer Art Sherman said. “In the final work before Dubai, he looked awesome. It was pretty impressive.” The most impressive fraction was his first six furlongs in 1:10 1/5, along with the fact that the reigning Horse of the Year and champion 3-year-old male barely seemed to be breathing heavily... ...

‘Ship and Win’ Program Expanded

By Bloodhorse.com DEL MAR, Calif. (Mar. 12, 2015) — An incentive program to attract out-of-state horses to race in California that has had success over the past four seasons at Del Mar will expand to the entire Southern California racing circuit April 2. The “Ship and Win” program will apply to horses that have not raced in the past 12 months in California. At Santa Anita Park, Los Alamitos Race Course, and Del Mar, the program will guarantee a $1,000 appearance fee and a 30% enhancement to all purse money earned in the horse’s initial start in the state. Funding for the program will come from the three Southern California racetracks, the Thoroughbred Owners of California, and the California Marketing Committee, which is tasked with promoting racing in the state. “Horse recruitment and increasing field size are top priorities for TOC,” TOC president Joe Morris said. “We supported the ‘Ship and Win’ program at Del Mar for the last four years and believe it will be equally successful as a... ...

Hovdey on Warren’s Veneda

By Jay Hovdey, DRF.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 12, 2015) — The owners and trainers of upwardly mobile older fillies and mares were looking at $700,000 on the table Saturday and a choice between running in the Azeri Stakes at Oaklawn Park against champion Untapable or the Santa Margarita at Santa Anita Park against a California-bred winner of one major event who was sired by a $1,000 stallion. Guess which way they went. Larry Jones, who won the Santa Margarita in 2013 with Joyful Victory, put Fox Hill Farm’s Cassatt on the bus to California for her 10th start at her ninth different racetrack. And no, she’s not on the lam from loan sharks. The daughter of Tapit already has won more than 600 grand. Meanwhile, Todd Pletcher scanned his overstuffed shed row and noticed that Dame Dorothy, a daughter of Bernardini, was primed and ready to go for owner Bobby Flay, so it was off to Santa Anita for her as well. “I’d like to think they’re running here because... ...

Date Changed for Del Mar Sale

From Barretts DEL MAR, Calif. (Mar. 12, 2015) — The dates for the 2015 May Sale of Two-Year-Olds in Training and Horses of Racing Age, to be held at the Del Mar Racetrack in San Diego Country, have been changed to: Sale Date: Thursday, May 28 Training Preview Date: Tuesday, May 26 Entries will close on Friday, April 3. Horses of racing age will also be accepted into this sale. ...

Marks Mine Seeks Repeat

ALBANY, Calif. (Mar. 13, 2015) – Marks Mine attempts to defend her title in Saturday’s $50,000 Camilla Urso Stakes for fillies and mares at Golden Gate. Fast and Foxy is by Thisnearlywasmine, out of the Falstaff mare Zorra Roja, was bred by Daehling Ranch, is owned by Joe Daehling and Holly Evans and is trained by Evans. She has six wins in 20 starts, earnings of 4149,009 and is coming off a second in a Feb. 15 allowance. She was seventh in this race last year. Tabled With Gold is by Formal Gold, out of the Never Tabled mare Tabled with Saros, was bred by Patricia Zacker & Ellen Hughes, is owned by Zacker and trained by Antonio Diaz. She has seven wins in 16 starts, earnings of $114,541 and is coming off a Feb. 15 allowance win. Look Quickly is by Run Away and Hide, out of the Western Fame mare Fame’s Flame, was bred by William Morey Jr., is owned by Morey Family Trust and is trained by... ...

Go West Marie in Irish O’Brien

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (March 11, 2015) – Trained by Eddie Truman, Stakes winner Go West Marie returns Saturday to the surface she has excelled over since joining the Truman barn this past summer, and she heads a field of seven set to go in Saturday’s $100,000 Irish O’Brien Stakes at 6 ½ furlongs down Santa Anita’s unique hillside turf course. Trained by Truman since June 2014, the formerly East Coast-based Go West Marie will again attempt to prove the admonition in her name Saturday having only run out of the money once in eight starts since shipping to California. ‘GWM’ will seek her second win in-a-row down Santa Anita’s downhill turf course in the O’Brien and her third in-a-row since teaming with Hall of Famer Gary Stevens. A winner of the Sunshine Millions Filly and Mare Turf Sprint Stakes Jan. 24 in her last out, she has never been worse than third over the course. “Eddie’s done a great job with this filly,” said Stevens following the... ...

NTRA Unveils Legislative Agenda

From Bloodhorse.com WASHINGTON, D.C. (Mar. 11, 2015) — The National Thoroughbred Racing Association has unveiled its federal legislative agenda for the 114th Congress, which convened in January. The organization said economic issues again dominate the agenda as tax matters re-emerge in the new Congress along with Internet gaming, immigration, and racehorse drug and therapeutic medication regulation and testing. “As always, we focus on legislation that directly affects our members and their Thoroughbred business activities, including horse racing, breeding, and pari-mutuel wagering,” said NTRA president and CEO Alex Waldrop, who directs the association’s lobbying efforts. “Our agenda each year in Washington generally has two distinct objectives—offense and defense. We attempt to advance matters that can be beneficial to the industry and at the same time monitor and prepare to act on a range of issues that could pose harm to our industry.” According to the NTRA, in the last Congress, it secured passage of three critical bills: the standardized, three-year depreciation for racehorses; bonus depreciation that permits taxpayers to depreciate 50%... ...

Warren’s Veneda, Uzziel Duel

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 11, 2015) — Warren’s Veneda will look to keep trending upward with a win in the $400,000 Santa Margarita Stakes (gr. I) March 14 at Santa Anita Park. Coming off her first graded score in the Feb. 14 Santa Maria Stakes (gr. II), the Benjamin Warren-owned 5-year-old daughter of Affirmative will try to extend her stakes win streak to three with her first grade I try in the 1 1/8-mile test over Santa Anita’s dirt course. Under the guidance of jockey Tyler Baze for the sixth straight race, the Craig Lewis trainee will break from the outside in a seven-horse field of older fillies and mares, and will take on many of the same rivals she has beaten in her last two wins. All entrants will carry 118 pounds. BALAN: Improving Warren’s Veneda Wins Santa Maria “Every race is a separate entity. It’s all a different occasion and a new race,” Lewis said. “You always want to ride the upswings. It’s the downswings you worry about.... ...

Harlington’s Rose

Harlington’s Rose wins the $100,000 Grade III Las Flores Stakes. ...

Harlington’s Rose Rallies in Las Flores

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (March 8, 2015)–Underrated Harlington’s Rose rallied from off the pace to win Sunday’s Grade III, $100,000 Las Flores Stakes by three quarters of a length while covering six furlongs in 1:09.64 under Joe Talamo. Trained by Steve Knapp and bred in California by Y-Lo Racing Stables, the Harlington filly broke from the rail and lacked room while full of run into the far turn. Next to last, about three lengths off the lead at the quarter pole, she wheeled three-wide turning into the stretch to gradually inch away from runner-up Meinertzhageni inside the sixteenth pole. “I didn’t really want the rail,” said Knapp. “As you could see, she got pinched at the three eighths pole and Joe had to stand on her. He had enough horse that he could go in between and go around, but it is what it is. “She has developed. When she was two and three, she wanted to run off. Now, she’s learned how to relax behind horses and this has made... ...

Equine Program Helps Autism Research

By Sacramento Bee SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Mar. 8, 2015) — On a thoroughbred ranch in Vacaville, a 3-week-old foal gallops close to its mother. Their bond seems natural, but it didn’t start out that way. When the foal was born, it completely ignored its mother and refused to nurse. University of California, Davis veterinary specialist John Madigan intervened moments after the birth with a novel treatment he calls “the squeeze.” It’s attracting attention from researchers studying autism in children, who see a possible parallel between Madigan’s work with horses and a similar technique — called kangaroo care — that’s often used on pre-term infants. “The phenomenon that Madigan has observed in foals is interesting and dramatic,” said David Stevenson, professor of pediatrics at Stanford University. Over the past five years, a dozen foals at Victory Rose Thoroughbreds in Vacaville have been born with neonatal maladjustment syndrome, or NMS, in which they are emotionally detached from their mothers. In each case, horse farm owner Ellen Jackson called Madigan, a UCD veterinary professor and... ...

Singing Kitty

Singing Kitty wins the $75,000 China Doll Stakes. ...

Singing Kitty Takes China Doll

By DRF.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 7, 2015) – Singing Kitty, claimed for $32,000 at Los Alamitos in December, won her second consecutive stakes in Saturday’s $91,650 China Doll Stakes for 3-year-old fillies on turf at Santa Anita. Singing Kitty ($41.60) closed from fourth in a field of eight to win the one-mile turf race by 1 1/2 lengths over Curlin’s Fox, the even-money favorite. She’s a Big Winner, who set the pace, finished third, a nose behind Curlin’s Fox. Singing Kitty, bred by Tommy Town Thoroughbreds, was timed in 1:35.09. She’s a Big Winner set fractions of 23.07 seconds for the opening quarter-mile and 47.34 for a half-mile. She was challenged in early stretch by Singing Kitty, who is trained by Matt Chew. Singing Kitty races for Chris Aulds and Peter Jeong. A California-bred by Ministers Wild Cat, Singing Kitty won a $32,000 claimer at Los Alamitos on Dec. 11, when she was claimed. She finished seventh in the Blue Norther Stakes on turf Jan. 1 but rebounded to win the California... ...

Salutos Amigos Wins Tom Fool

By Bloodhorse.com OZONE PARK, N.Y. (Mar. 7, 2015) — Salutos Amigos, a Kentucky-bred son of California stallion Salute the Sarge, continued to show he’s the top sprinter in New York with a powerful victory in the $200,000 Tom Fool Handicap (gr. III) at Aqueduct Racetrack March 7 (VIDEO). Sent off as the 3-5 favorite, Salutos Amigos rallied from third, easily going by second-choice Dads Caps in the stretch to post his fourth straight stakes victory. The 5-year-old by Salute the Sarge is now a perfect 3-for-3 over Aqueduct’s inner dirt track. Owned by David Jacobson and Southern Equine Stable, Salutos Amigos rated kindly in third under Cornelio Velasquez, as Dads Caps and 24-1 longshot Green Gratto battled from the start through a half-mile in :46.24 over the muddy track. As they turned for home, Velasquez began to ask on Salutos Amigos and the bay gelding responded, taking command from Dads Caps just inside the eighth-pole before posting the four-length score. The final time for the six furlongs was1:09.61. “Very impressive,”... ...

‘Chrome Readying for Dubai

By Bloodhorse.com CYPRESS, Calif. (Mar. 6, 2015) — Art Sherman wasn’t convinced California Chrome was quite ready for his last race, a 1 1/2-length second-place finish to Shared Belief in the San Antonio Invitational Stakes (gr. II) Feb. 7 at Santa Anita Park. But the trainer believes the 2014 Horse of the Year is back on track after arguably his best workout of the year—a bullet six furlongs in 1:11—March 6 at Los Alamitos Race Course. “I just didn’t think he was tight enough last time out against Shared Belief,” said Sherman, who noted the 4-year-old Lucky Pulpit colt galloped out seven furlongs in 1:24 2/5 . “Right now, he’s actually doing pretty good. I want him to get it back together and as tight as he needs to be for Dubai.” The 15-hour plane ride to Meydan Racecourse for the $10 million Dubai World Cup (UAE-I) March 28, among other things, is a concern for Sherman, who admits he is working with a lot of unknowns because he has... ...

Harlington’s Rose Goes in Las Flores

ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 5, 2015) – Stakes winner Harlington’s Rose is one of four California-breds among the entries in Sunday’s $100,000 Grade III Las Flores Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita. Harlington’s Rose is by Harlington, out of the Orientate mare A Rose for You, was bred by Y-Lo Racing Stables, is owned by Halasz, Johnson, Newhart, Miller, et al and is trained by Steve Knapp. She has three wins in 20 starts, earnings of $311,040 and is coming off a third in a Feb. 12 optional claimer. Sagebrush Queen is by Unbridled Energy, out of the Tough Knight mare Nite Moon, was bred by Oak Hill Farm, is owned by Larry Konecne and Sandi Mattei and is trained by Jorge Gutierrez. She has four wins in 10 starts, earnings of $213,770 and is making her first start since a third in the July 12 Great Lady M. Global Hottie is by Dixie Chatter, out of the Desert God mare Sonora Desert, was bred by Baseline Equine, is... ...

Clubhouse Ride to Stand at Harris Farms

From Harris Farms COALINGA, Calif. (Mar. 5, 2015) – Clubhouse Ride, the son of Candy Ride, has been retired and will enter stud for 2015 at Harris Farms for an introductory fee of $2,500. Campaigned by Six-S Racing Stable and Bonnie and Nikolas Petralia, and trained throughout his career by Craig Lewis, the chestnut earned $1,341,132 in 43 starts including victories in 2013 and 2014 Californian Stakes. A graded-stakes performer from ages 2 through 5, Clubhouse Rideplaced in nine additional graded stakes, including the Santa Anita Handicap, Santa Anita Gold Cup, Cash Call Futurity, Charles Town Classic, San Antonio Stakes and the Daytona Stakes. He ran eight triple-digit Beyers numbers in 2013-14. Clubhouse Ride co-owner Rick Seidner commented, “He was a great horse with a huge heart that ran on all surfaces. I was thrilled to witness every race. We’re looking forward to his second career.” Lewis said, “Clubhouse Ride was a top athlete, with a great mind. He was all racehorse.” John Harris of Harris Farms said, “I thought... ...

NTRA Recognizes Contributors

From NTRA LEXINGTON, Ky. (Mar. 4, 2015) — Thank you to all industry members who supported the NTRA’s federal legislative fundraising effort in 2014.More than 700 individuals, farms and racing partnerships, representing more than 40 states or U.S. territories and 14 countries, contributed to either the ¼% Check-off program at major domestic horse sales or the Foal program. These contributions enable the NTRA to represent our industry’s interests on Capitol Hill every day. Click here for a complete list of 2014 NTRA federal legislative contributors. The NTRA also recognizes the following industry partners for their support: Keeneland, Fasig-Tipton, Ocala Breeders’ Sales Company, Barretts, Washington Thoroughbred Breeders and Owners Association and Breeders’ Sales Company of Louisiana. Other organizations supporting the program include (in alphabetical order): California Thoroughbred Breeders Association (CTBA), Daily Racing Form (DRF), Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association (FTBOA), New York Thoroughbred Breeders, Inc. (NYTB), Santa Anita Park, Texas Horsemen’s News, Thoroughbred Daily News (TDN), Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association (TOBA) and Thoroughbred Owners of... ...

Kilroe Mile Lures Mega Heat

ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 4, 2015) – Mega Heat is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $400,000 Grade I Frank E. Kilroe Mile Stakes at Santa Anita. Mega Heat is by Unusual Heat, out of the Native Prospector mare Laguna Sunrise, was bred by Madeline Auerbach, is owned by Sharon Alesia, Ciaglia Racing and Rob Dyrdek. He has 10 wins in 22 starts, earnings of $437,500 and is coming off a consecutive optional claiming wins. ...

Crimson Giant Bids for Big ‘Cap

ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 4, 2015) – Longshot Crimson Giant is the lone California-bred challenging Shared Belief in Saturday’s $1 million Santa Anita Handicap. Crimson Giant is by Formal Gold, out of the Exclusive Era mare Mia Lena, was bred by owner Bryan Carney and is trained by Charles Stutts. He has one win in 66 starts, earnings of $172,642 and is coming off a second in at Feb. 20 optional claimer. ...

Pulmarack Takes San Felipe Shot

ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 4, 2015) – Pulmarack is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $400,000 Grade II San Felipe Stakes for 3-year-olds at Santa Anita. Pulmarack is by Lucky Pulpit, out of the Dehere mare Tamarack Bay, was bred by owners Mr. and Mrs. Larry Williams and is trained by Jerry Hollendorfer. He has one win in five starts, earnings of $121,600 and is coming off a second in the Jan. 24 California Cup Derby. ...

San Carlos Draws Blues Blaster

ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 4, 2015) – Blues Blaster is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $250,000 Grade II San Carlos Stakes at Santa Anita. Blues Blaster is by Redattore, out of the Rhythm mare Miss Rhythmic, was bred by Briere Thoroughbreds and is owned by trainer Bruce Dillenbeck. He has four wins in nine starts, earnings of $103,194 and is coming off a win in a Feb. 8 optional claimer. ...

Singing Kitty in China Doll

ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 4, 2015) – Stakes winner Singing Kitty is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $75,000 China Doll 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 and Peter Jeong and is trained by Matthew Chew. She has three wins in seven starts, earnings of $175,438 and is coming off a win in the Jan. 24 Xpressbet California Cup Oaks. ...

CHRB Annual Report Online

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Mar. 3, 2015) — The California Horse Racing Board’s Annual Report for fiscal year 2013-14 and racing year 2014 soon will be available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under “Publications.” For your convenience, we are attaching a pdf of the Annual Report. The CHRB no longer publishes a print edition of the Annual Report. ...

Hall of Fame Finalists Include Lava Man

By Bloodhorse.com SARATOGA, N.Y. (Mar. 2, 2015) — The 10 finalists on this year’s National Museum of Racing’s 2015 Hall of Fame ballot are jockeys Chris Antley, Victor Espinoza, Corey Nakatani, and Craig Perret; Thoroughbreds Black Tie Affair, Kona Gold, California-bred Lava Man, and Xtra Heat; and trainers King Leatherbury and David Whiteley. Four jockeys, four Thoroughbreds, and two trainers comprise the 10 finalists on the ballot, as selected by the Museum’s Hall of Fame nominating committee. Espinoza, Nakatani, Black Tie Affair, Lava Man, Leatherbury, and Whiteley are first-time finalists. Hall of Fame voters may select as many candidates as they believe are worthy of induction to the Hall of Fame. The four candidates with the highest vote totals will be elected. The voting results on contemporary candidates will be announced Monday, April 20. The induction ceremony will be at the Fasig-Tipton sales pavilion in Saratoga Springs, N.Y., on Friday, Aug. 7, at 10:30 a.m. The ceremony is free and open to the public. The finalists were selected by the... ...

Choper Reappointed to CHRB

From Office of Gov. Brown SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Feb. 28, 2015) — Jesse Choper, 79, of Orinda, has been reappointed to the California Horse Racing Board, where he has served since 2006. Choper has been the Earl Warren professor of public law at the University of California, Berkeley School of Law since 1991, where he was dean from 1982 to 1992 and a professor from 1965 to 1982. He was an associate professor of law at the University of Minnesota Law School from 1961 to 1965 and was a law clerk for the Honorable Earl Warren at the U.S. Supreme Court from 1960 to 1961. Choper is a member and former vice president of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and a member of the American Law Institute and the Order of the Coif, where he was national president from 1992 to 1995. Choper was the University of California, Berkeley faculty athletic representative to the Pac-10 and the National Collegiate Athletic Association from 2004 to 2010. This position requires... ...

Seabiscuit Movie Showing Cancelled

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (Feb. 27, 2015)–Due to a high probability of rain, Santa Anita Park has cancelled a special screening of the 2003 hit movie Seabiscuit this Saturday, which had been scheduled to start following the races at 6:30 p.m. in the track’s Paddock Gardens Area. The screening, which was planned to coincide with the 75th anniversary of the legendary Seabiscuit winning the 1940 Santa Anita Handicap, will be rescheduled at some point later this spring or summer, according to track officials. Directed by Gary Ross, “Seabiscuit” was nominated for seven Academy Awards and it marked the big screen debut of jockey Gary Stevens, who portrayed jockey George “The Ice Man” Woolf. Stevens, who returned to riding following a seven-year retirement in January, 2013, has won four Santa Anita Handicaps dating back to 1990, and he is scheduled to ride Chilean-bred Catch a Flight in this year’s $1 million Big ‘Cap on Saturday, March 7. Stevens will be available to media in the lead-up to America’s longest... ...

‘Chrome Continues Working Toward Dubai

By Bloodhorse.com CYPRESS, Calif. (Feb. 27, 2015) — California Chrome, the California-bred dual classic winner and 2014 Horse of the Year, continued to prepare for an appearance in the Dubai World Cup (UAE-I) with a five-furlong workout in 1:00 at Los Alamitos Racecourse Feb. 27. Trainer Art Sherman said he was pleased with the Lucky Pulpit colt’s breeze, which was the eighth fastest of 36 works at the Southern California track and followed a four-furlong jaunt by the colt in :48 4/5 Feb. 21. “He’s been pretty darn good,” Sherman said. “He’s right on schedule.” Sherman said the California-bred 4-year-old owned by Steve Coburn and Perry Martin will continue to work locally until he ships to Dubai March 17. Then he’ll get a breeze over Meydan Racecourse‘smain track in preparation for the $10 million World Cup March 28. “We’ll blow him out (after he arrives in Dubai),” Sherman said. “It won’t be too long. Probably a half-mile to get him ready.” Read more on BloodHorse.com: http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/90370/california-chrome-working-steadily-for-dubai#ixzz3SzLThktZ ...

Jockey Club Purchases Blood-Horse

By Bloodhorse.com LEXINGTON, Ky. (Feb. 27, 2015) — The Jockey Club and the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association announced Feb. 27 that The Jockey Club Information Systems has purchased a majority ownership interest in Blood-Horse magazine. The purchase also includes related digital and custom printing properties of Blood-Horse, the Stallion Register, and Blood-Horse‘s 50% interest in TrueNicks LLC, according to the announcement made jointly by Ogden Mills Phipps, chairman of The Jockey Club, and Peter S. Willmott, chairman of TOBA. “The Jockey Club stewards believe that a publication with the history, influence, and brand recognition of Blood-Horse is a considerable asset for the Thoroughbred breeding and racing industry and that there are certain synergies that will make it an even stronger entity as a result of this transaction,” Phipps said in a statement. “TOBA and its predecessor breeders’ organization have been the sole owner of Blood-Horse since 1935,” Willmott said. “With the considerable changes under way in the publishing industry, it is our strong feeling that a partnership with The... ...

Gloria Haley

By Emily Shields New California Thoroughbred Breeders Association board member Gloria Haley truly believes that horse racing is a team sport, and not just within each barn. Haley would love to see the powers in racing, both in the state and the nation, band together to fix mounting problems, such as purse troubles and finding careers for retired racehorses. “Sport is important to me, and I love that that’s exactly what our game is: sport,” Haley said. As owners, trainers and racetracks, we all have to be unified in our effort to make racing succeed. We are like a clock, and we need to all turn as gears to make it work.” Sports philosophy runs in Haley’s background, as the 63-year-old grew up officiating softball and volleyball games. At Sonoma State University she studied physical education and physiology and eventually realized how much of what she was learning applied to horse racing. “I was coaching at Santa Rosa High at the time,” she said, “when I... ...

Horse PAC Disbursements Hit $3 Million

WASINGTON, D.C. (Feb. 26, 2015) — Horse PAC, the bipartisan political action committee of the National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA), has surpassed the $3 million mark in total disbursements to federal political candidates and parties since its inception in 2002. Horse PAC has supported more than 250 candidates and 75 Leadership PACs and is the horse racing industry’s largest federal PAC. In the 2014 elections, Horse PAC-supported candidates won all 39 of their House contests and three of four Senate races for an impressive 97.6% success rate. The PAC disbursed $452,500 in the last Congress. “I want to thank the many individuals who contribute to Horse PAC for recognizing the important role it plays in supporting our industry’s efforts in Washington, D.C.,” said Horse PAC Chairman William S. Farish Jr. “I also want to express my gratitude to a small group of individuals who have contributed annually since the formation of Horse PAC.” Horse PAC supports federal political candidates who serve on Congressional committees that oversee matters... ...

Jerry Lambert Passes at 74

By DRF.com SANTA YNEZ, Calif. (Feb. 25, 2015) — Jerry Lambert, best known for riding Hall of Famer Native Diver in the 1960s and for winning a celebrated match race aboard Convenience against Typecast in 1972, was found dead Monday at Magali Farms in Santa Ynez, Calif., where he had been working, according to a release put out Tuesday by Santa Anita. Lambert was 74. Lambert, nicknamed “Clyde” after the city in Kansas where he was born, rode Native Diver to consecutive victories in the Hollywood Gold Cup from 1965-67. In 1972, he won a match race at Hollywood Park aboard Convenience, who just held off the late charge of Typecast and Bill Shoemaker. “He was a great rider,” Don Pierce, the Hall of Fame rider who retired in 1984, told the Santa Anita publicity department. “I rode with him from the time he came to California in 1961 until I retired. Any time he was in a race, you had to deal with him because he didn’t make mistakes.... ...

Woodmans Luck Entered at Sam Houston

HOUSTON, Tex. (Feb. 24, 2015) – Woodmans Luck is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Maxxam Gold Cup Stakes at Sam Houston Race Park. Woodmans Luck is by Lucky Pulpit, out of the Woodman mare Royal Woodman, was bred by Mr. and Mrs. Larry Williams, is owned by Jeffrey Kass and trained by Randy Mayfield. He has four wins in 38 starts, earnings of $289,740 and is coming off a Feb. 3 allowance win. ...

Cal-breds Sell at Barretts

POMONA, Calif. (Feb. 24, 2015) – Four California-breds brought six-figure prices at Monday’s Barretts’ 2-Year-Old in Training Sale. A Heatseeker filly out of the Capote mare Cinema Paradisa, was consigned by Brocklebank Training & Sales, agent for Dimple Dell Farms & D Legacy Farms, was purchased by Legacy Ranch for $185,000. A Lucky Pulpit filly out of the Rock Hard Ten mare Fantasy Rocks, consigned by Havens Bloodstock, agent, was purchased by Three Amigos for $180,000. A Gio Ponti colt, out of the Is It True mare Ring True, consigned by Havens Bloodstock, agent, was purchased by Point Richmond Bloodstock for $140,000. An Aragorn colt, out of the Indian Charlie mare Tavern on Rush, was consigned by Havens Bloodstock, agent, was purchased by Ryan or Liedel or Auerbach for $100,000. Falling just shy of six figures was a Slew’s Tiznow colt, out of the Unusual Heat mare Presidential Heat, consigned by Checkmate Thoroughbreds, agent, and purchased by Barnabus Molle for $92,000. ...

Bettys Bambino

Bettys Bambino wins $100,000 Sensational Star Stakes. ...

Final Barretts Fairplex Sale on Monday

By Bloodhorse.com POMONA, Calif. (Feb. 22, 2015) — Barretts will hold its final sale at Fairplex Park in Pomona, Calif., Feb. 23 before relocating to Del Mar with its selected 2-year-olds in training sale. Pinhooks, primarily from the 2014 Keeneland and Barretts fall yearling sales, dominate the catalog. Moved up from its usual slot in March, which puts it first among the nation’s major 2-year-old auctions, the sale will begin at 2 p.m. PST. It will be conducted in the Hinds Pavilion, now in use year-round and very popular as a simulcast facility called the Finish Line Sports Grill. As it usually does, the catalog consists of consignments from around the country, mostly from Florida and California. While local buyers have always patronized the sale, it has attracted East Coast trainers as well as many horsemen from Japan. John Brocklebank of St. George, Utah, is bringing the most expensive pinhook to the Barretts sale. The colt, Hip No. 46, is by Super Saver , whose first crop to the races last... ...

Bettys Bambino Wins Again

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (Feb. 21, 2015)–Course specialist Bettys Bambino sat close to the pace and rolled to a one-length victory over favored Ambitious Brew in Saturday’s $100,000 Sensational Star Stakes for Golden State Series eligible as he covered 6 ½ furlongs down Santa Anita’s hillside turf course in 1:12.65. Second, less than a length off of pacesetter Pathway to Yes crossing the dirt at the top of the lane, Bettys Bambino, who is conditioned by Peter Eurton, was caught four-wide and quickly assumed command en route to his fourth consecutive win over the course. “I had a lot of horse when we crossed the dirt, I was really comfortable,” said Garcia, who rode the 5-year-old Unusual Heat gelding for the fifth consecutive time. “I wanted a clean trip. He’s a really big horse and it’s better when I put him to the outside where he can run free. He loves the downhill.” The second choice, narrowly, at 5-2, Bettys Bambino paid $7.80, $4.00 and $2.60. Bred in... ...

‘Chrome Works at Los Alamitos

By Bloodhorse.com CYPRESS, Calif. (Feb. 21, 2015) — Still prepping for a likely run in the $10 million Dubai World Cup at Meydan Racecourse March 28, Steve Coburn and Perry Martin’s California Chrome highlighted the group with a half-mile work in :48 4/5 at his home track, Los Alamitos Racecourse. The Art Sherman trainee comes off a runner-up finish to Shared Belief in the Feb. 7 San Antonio Invitational Stakes (gr. II). ...

Cal-bred Pair in Curribot

SUNLAND PARK, N.M. (Feb. 22, 2005) – California-breds Gospel Music and Real Heat are entered in Saturday’s $50,000 Curribot Handicap at Sunland Park. Gospel Music is by Blazonry, out of the Pivotal mare Carbon Copy, was bred by Fred & Charlene Davis, is owned by J. Kirk and Judy Robison and is trained by Henry Dominguez. He has three wins in 15 starts, earnings of $94,200 and is coming off a fifth in a Jan. 9 allowance. Real Heat is by Unusual Heat, out of the Ole mare Chi Chi Nette, was bred by Madeline Auerbach and Barry Abrams, is owned by Class Racing Stable and trained by Bart Hone. He has four wins in 20 starts, earnings of $130,189 and is coming off a third in a Jan. 9 allowance. ...

CHRB Meeting Summary

From CHRB ARCADIA, Calif. (Feb. 19, 2015) — – The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Wednesday, February 18, at Santa Anita Park. Chairman Chuck Winner presided. Second Vice Chairman 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 for public notice a proposed regulatory amendment requiring that authorized bleeder medication be administered only by approved third-party veterinarians. The Board approved for public notice a proposed regulatory amendment requiring that claims be voided for horses that are placed on the veterinarian’s list for having visibly bled. This provision would be in addition to the existing criteria for voiding claims. The Board continued its discussion of possible changes to the rule that governs disqualifications in races. The matter will be referred to the Stewards’ Committee. A related issue pertaining to reckless riding that endangers other jockeys and horses is... ...

TVG to Acquire HRTV

By Bloodhorse.com INGLEWOOD, Calif. (Feb. 18, 2015)– Betfair and The Stronach Group announced Feb. 18 that TVG will assume operations of HRTV, bringing together the two competitors that televise North American and some international horse races. Under the deal, TVG will assume the operations of HRTV, which will be operated from the TVG Studio complex in Los Angeles, according to a release. The unified television operations will feature races from Santa Anita Park, Gulfstream Park, Pimlico Race Course, Laurel Park, and Golden Gate Fields over a seven-year period, as well as additional premium domestic and international racetracks. According to the release, Betfair will make an initial payment of $25 million and estimates that it will pay further consideration totaling $47.8 million over the seven-year period, although the total is dependent upon TVG’s future handle. Based on projected future cash flows, the present fair market value of these payments is estimated to be $56.3 million. In the last 12 months, under previous agreements, TVG paid $4.3 million in television fees to... ...

CHRB Discusses Riding Rules

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Feb. 18, 2015) The discussion over riding rules brought into the spotlight with the controversial start of the 2014 Breeders’ Cup Classic (gr. I) continued during the California Horse Racing Board’s Feb. 18 meeting, but potential modifications to the regulations were pushed into the future. The hour-long talk on the topic at Santa Anita Park Wednesday centered around clarifying the language in the rules to limit the discretion of California’s racing stewards. With three proposed language modifications, some on the board suggested a change in rule verbiage to eliminate subjectivity from the stewards and increase consistency in rulings at all California tracks. The board plans to review the issue again after its Legislative, Legal and Regulations Committee meets with track stewards later in the year. “There’s obviously no simple answer, but if you’re looking for consistency, the most direct route to consistency is to reduce the discretion of the decision-maker,” commissioner Jesse Choper said. “The more rules you have, the more consistency. The difficulty is you... ...

Leonard Dorfman Passes at 92

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (Feb. 17, 2015) – Highly respected longtime Southern California trainer Leonard Dorfman passed away peacefully early Sunday evening at his daughter’s home in Round Rock Texas. The affable Dorfman, a decorated World War II combat veteran who lied about his eyesight to enlist in the Army at age 19, would have been 93 on June 22. Best known as the conditioner of multiple stakes winners Biggs, Travel Orb, Minnesota Chief, Joni U. Bar and McCann’s Mojave, Dorfman gravitated to the track at an early age and one of his first jobs was grooming horses at movie mogul Louis B. Mayer’s farm in Hemet, Calif., circa, 1939 at age 15. A native of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, Dorfman emigrated to Los Angeles with his mother at the age of 7 and soon thereafter cultivated a lifetime love affair with horses. “He was such a kind and gentle man,” said retired Hall of Fame jockey Donald Pierce, from his home in Encinitas. “He was without a doubt... ...

Ambitious Brew Back for Sensational Star

ARCADIA, Calif. (Feb. 16, 2015) – Defending champion Ambitious Brew, one of seven stakes winners in the field, makes his first start since the Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint in Saturday’s $100,000 Sensational Star Stakes for Golden State Series eligibles at Santa Anita. Patriots Rule is by Tribal Rule, out of the Seattle Bound mare Candy Factory, was bred by Dahlberg Farms, is owned by Charles Garvey and trained by Sean Williams. He has four wins in 14 starts, earnings of $271,920 and is coming off a third in the Jan. 24 Cal Cup Turf Classic. Boozer is by Unusual Heat, out of the Cape Canaveral mare Kitty and Boo, was bred by B. Abrams, V. Loverso, C. Perez, Huston Racing and M. Auerbach, is owned by Al and Saundra Kirkwood and trained by Mark Glatt. He has five wins in 14 starts, earnings of $345,242 and is coming off a second in the Jan. 24 Cal Cup Turf Classic. Weewinnin is by Comic Strip, out of the Roman Dancer mare... ...

Cal-bred Pair in Turf Paradise Derby

PHOENIX, Az. (Feb. 16, 2015) – California-breds Best Asset and General Dixie are entered in Saturday’s $75,000 Turf Paradise Derby for 3-year-olds. Best Asset is by Never Shamed, out of the Crimson Slew mare Crimson Cricket, was bred by Dick and Peggy Hopwood, is owned by Peggy Hopwood and is trained by Dan McFarlane. He has one win in nine starts, earnings of $39,586 and is coming off a second in the Feb. 4 Chuck N Luck Stakes. General Dixie is by Dixie Chatter, out of the General Meeting mare Song of Summer, was bred by Ballena Vista Farm, is owned by Richard Rennie and Eugene Burns and is trained by Burns. He has one win in four starts, earnings of $4,755 and is coming off a Feb. 6 maiden win. ...

Fog Clears for Marino’s Wild Cat

From Golden Gate Publicity ALBANY, Calif. (Feb. 16, 2015) — A front-running victory aboard 3-2 California-bred favorite Marino’s Wild Cat in the $60,460 Lost in the Fog Stakes highlighted a four-victory afternoon for jockey Silvio Amador at Golden Gate Fields Monday. Marino’s Wild Cat sped to the lead soon after the start of the six-furlong sprint for older horses and set fractions of 22.78 and 45.17 while being tracked by come-backing Exit Stage Left, who entered the race undefeated in three starts – all stakes victories. Marino’s Wild Cat held Exit Stage Left at bay through the length of the stretch and scored by 1 3/4 lengths in an impressive 1:08.92. Exit Stage Left, making his first start since winning the California Derby on Jan. 18, 2014, took second by a length over 15-1 outsider Giant Sandman. “I was very happy the race went the way I thought it would,” said Amador. “It was good that nobody came out to fight me on the... ...

Del Mar Track Replacement Progressing

From DMTC Publicity DEL MAR, Calif. (Feb. 16, 2015) — After clearing away all of the synthetic Polytrack material that made up the main track surface for the past eight years, crews have almost completed removing the stone sub-base of the main track. Those two-inch blue granite stones, approximately 15,000 tons worth, are earmarked for recycled uses on the 350-acre fairground. A large rock crusher has been assembled to grind or break the stones into three products – rock dust, pea gravel and three-quarter-inch rock. The rock dust will make up a portion of the new track’s sub-base; the pea gravel will be used to line the track’s inside drainage channel, and the three-quarter-inch rock will be employed on several additional maintenance projects on the fairgrounds. Digging for the inside drainage channel – which measures approximately a foot wide and 18 inches deep — began this past Monday. Water that drains down through the main track will use the existing perforated drainage pipes hooked into a new main pipe... ...

Warren’s Veneda

Warren’s Veneda Wins $200,000 Grade II Santa Maria Stakes. ...

Warren’s Veneda Wins Santa Maria

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (Feb. 14, 2015)–Although she was caught wide around both turns, Warren’s Veneda rallied from off the pace to an emphatic 2 ¾ length win in Saturday’s Grade II, $200,000 Santa Maria Stakes at Santa Anita, as the California-bred daughter of Affirmative covered 1 1/16 miles in 1:43.18. Trained by Craig Lewis and owned by her breeder, Benjamin C. Warren, Warren’s Veneda, who notched her second win in a row and got her first graded stakes victory, was the second choice in a field of eight older fillies and mares at 9-5 and paid $5.60, $3.40 and $2.60. “I was on her when she broke her maiden a couple of years ago and I knew she was a nice filly then,” said Baze. “Going into the first turn I thought about taking her back and dropping her in, but I told myself to just have confidence and I knew she was the best in the field. I lost a little ground, which I really don’t... ...

Hovdey on ‘Chrome and Dubai

By Jay Hovdey, DRF.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Feb. 13, 2015) — The emotional response to the decision by the California Chrome camp to head for the $10 million Dubai World Cup instead of staying home to run in the $1 million Santa Anita Handicap is perfectly understandable. I forgive myself. But dang, another race against Shared Belief in the Santa Anita event would have been a blockbuster. Fans would have had tales to tell the grandchildren. For those two minutes, the racing world would have stopped dead in its tracks to witness history, pulling a decent chunk of the general sports audience along for the ride. Who knows? ESPN might even have noticed. Still, it is hard not to be encouraged by the record of American horses in the 14 runnings of the 1 1/4-mile World Cup on dirt at Nad Al Sheba, its former Dubai home. From 1996 to 2009, there were eight American-trained winners (nine if you count Street Cry, who began his career in California with Eoin Harty and... ...

Marino’s Wild Cat in Lost in the Fog

ALBANY, Calif. (Feb. 15, 2015) – Stakes winner Marino’s Wild Cat and fellow California-bred Mah Gellin are entered in Monday’s $50,000 Lost in the Fog Stakes at Golden Gate Marino’s Wild Cat is by Marino Marini, out of the Dayjur mare Faxene, was bred by Goy Guinnane, is owned by GCCI and trained by Cliff DeLima. He has five wins in 12 starts, earnings of $175,410 and is coming off a fifth in the Jan. 24 Donald Valpredo California Cup Sprint. Mah Gellin is by Skimming, out of the Maheras mare Mahrin, was bred by Racing Edge, is owned by Joe and Lola Sample and is trained by Duane Offield. He has five wins in 14 starts, earnings of $148,598 and is coming off a win in a Jan. 18 optional claimer. ...

Uzziel Cross-entered in Buena Vista

ARCADIA, Calif. (Feb. 13, 2015) – Uzziel, who is also entered in Saturday’s Santa Maria Stakes, is the lone California-bred entered in Monday’s $200,000 Grade II Buena Vista 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 trained by J. Keith Desormeaux. She has four wins in 11 starts, earnings of $159,138 and is coming off a fifth in the Dec. 26 La Brea. ...

Bodhisattva Enters Miracle Wood

LAUREL, Md. (Feb. 13, 2015) – Bodhisattva is the lone California-bred entered in Monday’s $100,000 Miracle Wood 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 eight starts, earnings of $79,095 and is coming off a fourth in the Jan. 29 Frank Whiteley Stakes. ...

Headley Inducted in CTBA Hall of Fame

By Art Wilson, Pasadena Star News ARCADIA, Calif. (Feb. 13, 2015) — Got about an hour? Maybe two? That’s how long it will take for Bruce Headley to tell you about all the standout California-bred horses he’s trained during his 56-year career. The old-school Headley, who believes hay, oats and water are the only ingredients a horse needs to be successful, received the highest honor a local horseman can receive Monday night at the Pasadena Westin when he was inducted into the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association Hall of Fame. According to his daughter, Karen, his acceptance speech brought down the house. Not surprising, since Headley can be as delightful off the track as he is lethal on it. “There are a lot of great men in there, in that Hall of Fame, that I learned from, so to be in there with the guys I learned from is quite an honor,” said Headley, who discovered at a young age that if you’re good to the horses, they’ll be good to... ...

Cal-bred Pair in Baffle Stakes

ARCADIA, Calif. (Feb. 12, 2015) – California-breds Hot Lightning and Not Enough Eddie are entered in Sunday’s $75,000 Baffle Stakes for 3-year-olds at Santa Anita. Hot Lightning is by Stormin Fever, out of the Two Punch mare Two Punch Gal, was bred by Thomas Bachman, is owned by Tim Goodwin, Steven Zolotas and Sabina Romo and is trained by Alfredo Marquez. He has one win in six starts, earnings of $43,240 and is coming off a maiden claiming win Jan. 17. Not Enough Eddie is by Square Eddie, out of the In Excess mare Too Much Excess, was bred by owner Reddam Racing and is trained by Doug O’Neill. He has one win in three starts, earnings of $25,700 and is coming off a seventh in the Nov. 1 Juvenile Turf Sprint Stakes. ...

CTBA Awards Dinner Video

To view the presentation of 2014 Horse of the Year at the CTBA Annual Awards Dinner, click http://bit.ly/1KQ9kLr ...

Mischief Clem in El Camino Real

ALBANY, Calif. (Feb. 11, 2015) – California Cup Derby winner Mischief Clem is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $200,000 Grade III El Camino Real Stakes for 3-year-olds at Golden Gate. Mischief Clem is by Papa Clem, out of the Bold Badgett mare Glitteringmischief, was bred by SLU, is owned by Griffin Thoroughbred Stables and trained by Robert Hess Jr. He has three wins in six starts, earnings of $266,380 and is coming off a win in the Jan. 24 California Cup Derby. ...

Cal-bred Trio in Santa Maria

ARCADIA, Calif. (Feb. 11, 2015) – California-breds Uzziel, Warren’s Veneda and Sweet Marini are entered in Saturday’s $200,000 Grade II Santa Maria 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 trained by J. Keith Desormeaux. She has four wins in 11 starts, earnings of $159,138 and is coming off a fifth in the Dec. 26 La Brea. 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 six wins in 20 starts, earnings of $467,612 and is coming off a win in the Paseana. Sweet Marini is by Marino Marini, out of the In Excess mare Excessing, was bred by BMWZ Stables, is owned by Kaleem Shah and trained by Bob Baffert. She has five wins in 13 starts, earnings of $411,418 and is coming off a second in the... ...

Joy Boy Enters Essex

HALLANDALE, Fla. (Feb. 11, 2015) – Joy Boy is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Essex Handicap at Gulfstream Park. Joy Boy is by Tribal Rule, out of the Half Term mare Joyously, was bred by Dr. and Mrs. William Gray, is owned by TK Stables and is trained by Kellyn Gorder. He has 10 wins in 32 starts, earnings of $392,611 and is coming off consecutive optional claiming wins. ...

Omar Enters Phoenix Gold Cup

PHOENIX, Ariz. (Feb. 11, 2015) – Omar is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $75,000 Phoenix Gold Cup Handicap at Turf Paradise. Omar is by Bertrando, out of the Beau Genius mare Perfect Doll, was bred by Omar Aldabbagh, is owned by Randy Exelby, Running Rabbit, Rick and TG Racing and is trained by Robertino Diodoro. He has eight wins in 23 starts, earnings of $140,742 and is coming off a third in the Jan. 24 Swift Stakes. ...

Mirahmadi Hired by Monmouth

By Bloodhorse.com OCEANPORT, N.J. (Feb. 10, 2015) — Monmouth Park Racetrack has announced that Frank Mirahmadi will become its new track announcer when the 2015 racing season kicks off on Saturday, May 9. “Frank is an exceptional talent and we’re delighted that he will be joining the Monmouth Park team,” Bob Kulina, president of Darby Development LLC, operators of the racetrack, said in a release. “His style and accuracy will be a perfect fit for Monmouth and I’m sure everyone on-track and those listening worldwide will be equally delighted with his race calls.” A veteran of the announcer’s booth for nearly 20 years, Mirahmadi got his start at Hialeah Park in 1996. Since then he’s called the races at Louisiana Downs, Turf Paradise and for the last nine years the Northern California fair circuit. He’s currently the announcer for Oaklawn Park and Los Alamitos Racecourse and works for TVG as a racing analyst and with their sales department. In addition, Mirahmadi has voiced race calls for the movie “Seabiscuit” as... ...

‘Chrome Cal-bred Horse of the Year

PASADENA, Calif. (Feb. 9, 2015) — Eclipse Award Horse of the Year California Chrome was officially named California-bred Horse of the Year for 2014 at Monday night’s annual California Thoroughbred Breeders Association awards dinner at the Pasadena Westin. California Chrome, who distanced Alert Bay and Big Macher in the voting, earlier was named California-bred champion 3-year-old and Turf champion. California Chrome was bred by owners Perry Martin & Steve Coburn. The other champions 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 California Foaled Thoroughbreds by Earnings – Perry Martin & Steve Coburn. Trainer of the Year – Art Sherman. Broodmare of the Year – Love the Chase, owned... ...

California Chrome Headed to Dubai

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Feb. 9, 2015) — Another bout between Shared Belief and California Chrome won’t be happening in the near future, trainers for the two horses made clear in comments Feb. 8. Both camps definitively stated where their respective runners will be headed next, a day after Shared Belief’s clear victory over California Chrome in the San Antonio Invitational Stakes (gr. II) Feb. 7 at Santa Anita Park. Shared Belief will be pointed to the $1 million Santa Anita Handicap (gr. I) March 7 and California Chrome will be aimed for the $10 million Dubai World Cup (gr. I) March 28 at Meydan Racecourse. “Shared Belief was excellent this morning,” Dan Ward, assistant to trainer Jerry Hollendorfer, said of the 4-year-old son Candy Ride who has won nine of his 10 career starts. “He ate all his feed. “What happened in the past is not important,” Ward said in regard to the colt’s only career loss, which came with a fourth-place finish in the controversial Breeders’ Cup Classic (gr.... ...

California Chrome

California Chrome finishes second in the $500,000 San Antonio Stakes. ...

‘Chrome Second to Shared Belief

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Feb. 7, 2015) — The showdown everyone wanted to see produced a clear verdict for Shared Belief over reigning Horse of the Year California Chrome in the $500,000 San Antonio Invitational Stakes (gr. II) Feb. 7 at Santa Anita Park (VIDEO). Second choice California Chrome, leading by a length at the head of the stretch, could not withstand the charge of even-money favorite Shared Belief, who responded to a couple of left-handed cracks of the whip from Hall of Fame jockey Mike Smith in upper stretch. Before a crowd of 21,522, Shared Belief surged past in deep stretch under a hand ride on his way to a convincing win by 1 1/2 lengths. The final time for the 1 1/8-mile trip was 1:48.45 over a fast track. “I can’t even describe that performance,” Smith said. “He ranks right up there with the top five horses I have ever been on, with room to grow. It really was so impressive. There’s no telling what this horse can... ...

Salutos Amigos Wins Toboggan

By Bloodhorse.com OZONE PARK, N.Y. (Feb. 7, 2015) – Salutos Amigos, a Kentucky-bred son of California stallion Salute the Sarge, wouldn’t be denied Feb. 7, rallying through the stretch to take the $147,000 Toboggan Stakes (gr. III) at Aqueduct Racetrack by 1 3/4 lengths over Dads Caps. Sent off as the 3-4 favorite in the field of five competing over a fast inner track, Salutos Amigos overcame a four-length deficit in the stretch to reel in 9-5 second-choice Dads Caps. With Irad Ortiz Jr. aboard, Salutos Amigos won his third straight stakes race and fourth stakes in the past five starts. “He’s just getting better and better,” said Jacobson, who also trains the 5-year-old Salute the Sarge gelding. “(Dads Caps) is a tough horse to run down and beat.” Dads Caps, wearing blinkers, went right to the front and set the pace under Jose Ortiz, covering the half mile in fractions of :23.08 and :45.30 while Salutos Amigos raced fourth, over six lengths behind the speedy front-runner. Turning for home,... ...

Acceptance Turned Out

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Feb. 6, 2015) — Promising California-bred 3-year-old Acceptance, who suffered his first defeat in four starts when fourth as the 1-2 favorite in the California Cup Derby Jan. 24 at Santa Anita Park, has been turned out at Old English Rancho in Sanger. “He left today (Feb. 6),” said Kenny Black, assistant to trainer Don Warren. “He’ll be freshened to deal with some shin issues.” Warren conditions the homebred son of Vronsky for Bud and Judy Johnston, who own the dark bay colt in partnership with Robert Riggio. Acceptance won the first three starts of his career, including stakes victories last year in Santa Anita’s Golden State Juvenile and the King Glorious at Los Alamitos Racecourse. Heavily favored in the Cal Cup Derby, his 2015 debut, Acceptance set the pace while under pressure from eventual winner Mischief Clem before dropping back in the homestretch to lose by 12 1/4 lengths. Read more on BloodHorse.com: http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/90008/acceptance-turned-out-with-shin-issues#ixzz3R0TDK2J8 ...

Smiling Tiger’s First Foal Arrives

From Harris Farms COALINGA, CA (February 4, 2015)-Premier Thoroughbreds, LLC and Harris Farms announce that Grade One winning Smiling Tiger‘s first foal is a colt out of the Grade one-placed and stakes winning broodmare Erica’s Smile. Foaled on January 29th the colt was bred by Phil Lebherz and was dropped at Premier Thoroughbreds, LLC in Oakdale, CA. Smiling Tiger was campaigned by Alan Klein and Philip Lebherz and trained by Jeff Bonde to nine wins, two seconds and eight thirds from 23 lifetime starts. Winning three Grade One events and placing twice in the Breeders’ Cup Sprint, Smiling Tiger earned $1,480,704. Smiling Tiger will stand for $5,000 live foal at Harris Farms. ...

Hovdey on California Chrome

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... ...

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