FARMINGTON, N.M. (June 17, 2014) — Happy Toes is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $75,000 San Juan County Commissioners Handicap at Sunray Park. Happy Toes is by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Green Dancer mare Up On Her Toes, was bred by Tommy Town Thoroughbreds, is owned by Jackie and Sylvia Herron and trained by Justin Evans. He has 11 wins in 41 starts, earnings of $174,441 and is coming off a second in a May 27 allowance. ...
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By courier-journal.com LOUISVILLE, Ky. (June 17, 2014) — The Breeders’ Cup is returning to Kentucky after what will be a four-year absence — but not to Churchill Downs. Instead, the 2015 Breeders’ Cup will be at Keeneland Race Course in Lexington. Lexington-based Breeders’ Cup Ltd. is expected to announce this month that the next three sites after this year’s running at Santa Anita Park in California, according to two sources with knowledge of the plans. Next year would be at Keeneland, followed by a return to Santa Anita in Arcadia in 2016 and then Del Mar Thoroughbred Club in San Diego in 2017, they said. A Breeders’ Cup spokesman has said the organization isn’t commenting, and several board members declined to discuss plans when called individually. Among them, Chairman Bill Farish of Lanes End Farm said an announcement is close and said it would be around June 24. It would be the first time the fall thoroughbred championships would be held at Keeneland or Del Mar — both of which... ...
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By DRF.com PLEASANTON, Calif. (June 17, 2014) — Thursday marks the start of a new era in Northern California racing, as Oak Tree at Pleasanton becomes a reality with the first day of racing at the Alameda County Fair. The Oak Tree Racing Association, the not-for-profit group that has provided high-quality racing and millions of dollars of support to the industry – “horsemen helping horsemen” is its motto – as well as the local community, arrives at the oldest one-mile racetrack in America. The group has been looking for a home since Santa Anita ended ties with Oak Tree following the 2009 meet. Chris Korby, the executive director of the California Authority of Racing Fairs, approached Sherwood Chillingworth, Oak Tree’s director and executive vice president, following a California Horse Racing Board meeting one year ago. “Chris grabbed me by the shoulder and asked, ‘Have you ever thought of coming to Northern California?’ ” Chillingworth said. Oak Tree, CARF, and the Alameda County Fair began meeting, and California Horse Racing Board... ...
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From E.A. Ranches RAMONA, Calif. (June 17, 2014) — Graded stakes winner Maybry’s Boy, a son of Santa Anita Handicap (gr. I) winner Broad Brush, is relocating from New York to E.A. Ranches in Ramona, Calif. Maybry’s Boy’s foals include multiple stakes winner Sportswriter, an earner of $361,033. Maybry’s Boy won the 2002 Spectacular Bid Stakes (gr. II). He is out of the graded stakes-placed Alydar mare Aly’s Conquest, and the second dam, Am Capable, is a multiple graded stakes winner. ...
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PLEASANTON, Calif. (June 16, 2014) – Entries have been taken for Oak Tree at Pleasanton’s Opening Day this Thursday at the Alameda County Fairgrounds. The Oak Tree Racing Association and the Pleasanton race meeting are joining forces to boost interest in Northern California racing. Through sponsorships to the Pleasanton stakes schedule and an increase in marketing, Oak Tree will add more excitement to the Pleasanton meet, which traditionally kicks off the summer Northern California racing circuit. Pleasanton has been rebranded as Oak Tree at Pleasanton, complete with its new designation of OTP in past performances and charts. As such, the June 19-July 6 meeting will benefit from Oak Tree’s long experience and history of conducting some of the most successful race meetings in the country, including hosting five Breeders’ Cups. Oak Tree is sponsoring Pleasanton’s stakes schedule with the addition of $150,000. That includes the creation of three new stakes—the $100,000 Oak Tree Handicap on June 21, $100,000 Oak Tree Distaff on June 28, and $75,000 Oak Tree Sprint on... ...
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From Emerald Downs Publicity AUBURN, Wash. (June 15, 2014) – Using a strong closing kick, Stryker Phd made a triumphant return to action Sunday at Emerald Downs. The Washington-bred son of California stallion Bertrando, runner-up in the 2013 Longacres Mile, Stryker Phd drew clear for a 3 ¼-length victory in stakes-record time in the $50,000 Budweiser Handicap for 3-year-olds and up. Ridden by Leslie Mawing at 119 lbs., Stryker Phd ran one mile in 1:34.15—breaking the mark shared by Westsideclyde and R. Associate—and paid $10.80, $6 and $4.60. Larry Ross, who took over training duties from Margo Lloyd this spring, now conditions Stryker Phd for owners Jim and Mona Hour of Bellevue, Wash. Mr. Bowling, ridden by David G. Lopez at 118 lbs., finished second and paid $5.40 and $4.20. Canadian shipper Shooting Jacket, a 29-to-1 long shot ridden by Eliska Kubinova at 116 lbs, rallied to finish third and paid $15 to show. Jebrica, the defending champion and 3-to-1 betting favorite, finished fourth, followed by Twistrgrips, Dontmesswithkitten, Hudson Landing,... ...
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From CHRB CYPRESS, Calif. (June 16, 2014) — The California Horse Racing Board will conduct its regular meeting Thursday, June 19, beginning at 9:30 a.m. in the Finish Line Room at Los Alamitos Race Course. The public is encouraged to attend. An audio-only webcast of the meeting can be heard through a link on the CHRB website (webcast). The agenda and supporting package of materials for these meetings also are available on the website (agenda/package). ...
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From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (June 15, 2014)—With 4-5 favorite My Sweet Addiction drifting out badly turning for home, longshot California-bred Sagebrush Queen shot through a large opening at the rail a quarter mile out and went on to win Sunday’s $75,000 added Desert Stormer Stakes at Santa Anita by one length, covering six furlongs under Edwin Maldonado in 1:09.75. Trained by Jorge Gutierrez, California-bred Sagebrush Queen was making her first start in a stakes and was the biggest price in a field of five fillies and mares at 16-1. “I saw My Sweet Addiction was having trouble on the far turn and literally blew the turn and she took the other filly (Doinghardtimeagain) with her so that helped me a lot,” said Maldonado. “At first I thought he (Mike Smith, aboard My Sweet Addiction) was going to shut the hole down at the rail, but then he went and did the opposite blowing the turn. She was certainly the one to beat today.” A 4-year-old filly by Unbridled... ...
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From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (June 15, 2014) –Santa Anita has announced that its one mile main track will undergo a major renovation beginning July 11 that will result in the track transitioning to a single-source material consisting of highly coveted El Segundo Sand, a natural soil that will ensure balanced drainage during periods of wet weather and uniform, safe cushion year ’round. “Beginning July 11, we’re going to take out the existing surface and go down to the base of the track,” said Santa Anita Track Superintendent Dennis Moore. “At that point, we’ll survey the existing base and ensure we’re meeting all specifications relative to slope and grade. “We’re going to be moving 20,000-plus yards of material and we anticipate this process is going to take about four or five weeks. We’re very fortunate to have been able to locate this soil which is currently being excavated due to construction projects at LAX. “El Segundo Sand is naturally occurring and we won’t have to mix it with any... ...
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From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (June 15, 2014) — Big Macher, who went on to capture the Grade II Potrero Grande Stakes after being claimed by Richard Baltas for $20,000, worked four furlongs Sunday in a snappy 46.80, just a tick off the fastest drill of 63 at that distance on Father’s Day morning. The bullets were recorded by both Bold Decision and Spirit of Ten at 46.60. “Beautiful” is how Baltas termed the move. “He was very eager and he wanted to work.” Big Macher went the first half-mile in 23 3/5 and galloped out five furlongs in 1:00 3/5. “I don’t think he’ll make the Triple Bend (a Grade I, $300,000 stakes at seven furlongs on June 28),” Baltas said, “but you never know. He went pretty easy. He definitely was ready to work.” Big Macher, a 4-year-old California-bred son of Beau Genius, had been sidelined with an injury to his right front foot following a workout on May 10. ...
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ARCADIA, Calif. (June 12, 2014) – Doinghardtimeagain returns from a 10-month layoff to face and fellow California-breds Warren’s Veneda and Sagebrush Queen in Sunday’s $75,000 Desert Stormer Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita. Doinghardtimeagain is by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Conquistador Cielo mare Silve Hawk Lady, was bred by owner Tommy Town Thoroughbreds and is trained by Jerry Hollendorfer. She has five wins in 11 starts, earnings of $586,740 and is making her first start since a ninth in the Aug. 17 Del Mar Oaks. Warren’s Veneda is by Affirmative, out of the Flying Continental mare More Cal Bread, was bred by owner Benjamin Warren and is trained by Craig Lewis. She has five wins in 13 starts, earnings of $321,064 and is coming off a fourth in the May 18 Adoration. 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.... ...
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AUBURN, Wash. (June 12, 2014) – Pepnic is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $50,000 Budweiser Handicap at Emerald Downs. Pepnic is by Peppered Cat, out of the Tychonic mare Prochonic, was bred by Alex Paszkeicz, is owned by David Taylor, Jr. and is trained by Tim McCanna. He has five wins in 25 starts, earnings of $220,106 and is coming off a second in a May 17 optional claimer. ...
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SHAKOPEE, Minn. (June 12, 2014) – La Mano Nera is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $75,000 Dark Star Stakes at Canterbury Park. La Mano Nera is by Marino Marini, out of the Iz a Saros mare Iza Bay, was bred by J. Chance Kruljac, is owned by TG Racing, Charles Garvey, Randy Howg and Rick Wiest and is trained by Robertino Diodoro. He has five wins in 20 starts, earnings of $155,428 and is coming off a May 31 optional claiming win. ...
Read More →By Bloodhorse.com Dual classic winner California Chrome is the fifth-ranked horse in the latest “World’s Best Racehorse Rankings” published June 12 by the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities. A 3-year-old colt whose Triple Crown bid ended in the June 7 Belmont Stakes (gr. I), California Chrome was rated at 124 in the rankings, compiled by a committee for the period covering Jan. 1-June 8. Continuing to top the rankings with a 130 rating is Japanese-based Just A Way, winner of the Yasuda Kinen (Jpn-I) at Tokyo Racecourse June 8. Rated at 126 and second in the rankings is Variety Club, the South African-based winner of the Godolphin Mile (UAE-II) on the Dubai World Cup card in March. Santa Anita Handicap (gr. I) winner Game On Dude, most recently second in the Charles Town Classic Stakes (gr. II), is tied with Kingman, an impressive five-length winner of the Tattersalls Irish One Thousand Guineas (Ire-I), for third overall. Game On Dude is the highest rated U.S.-based horse at 125. Rated along with... ...
Read More →By Bloodhorse.com CYPRESS, Calif. (June 11, 2014) — No news is good news for California Chrome, who is healing up at trainer Art Sherman’s Los Alamitos Race Course barn following a courageous Triple Crown bid that ended with a defeat June 7 in the Belmont Stakes (gr. I). Since arriving back at his Southern California racing base on the night of June 8, California Chrome has been taking it easy while receiving treatment for a grabbed quarter to his right front foot, which Sherman said is improving. He sustained the injury shortly after the start of the 1 1/2-mile Belmont when he bumped with Matterhorn, the horse to his outside in the starting gate. “We’ll doctor the foot for the next 10 days or so, then we’ll send him out for six weeks,” Sherman said June 11. California Chrome will be sent to John Harris’ horse farm in Central California, where the colt was foaled, the trainer said. The stout chestnut is to be turned out at Harris’ River Ranch... ...
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ARCADIA, Calif. (June 11, 2014) – Multiple stakes winner Unusual Way is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $300,000 Grade I Vanity Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita. Unusual Way is by Unusual Heat, out of the Great Above mare Way Up, was bred by Thomas Bachman, is owned by Edward Brown, Jr. and Philip Lebherz and is trained by Jeff Bonde. She has five wins in 17 starts, earnings of $691,960 and is coming off a fourth in the Apr. 26 Fran’s Valentine. Also entered is Let Faith Arise, a Kentucky-bred daughter of California stallion Kafwain with earnings of $470,240. ...
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ARCADIA, Calif. (June 11, 2014) – Pulpit’s Express is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $400,000 Grade I Shoemaker Mile Stakes at Santa Anita. Pulpit’s Express is by Lucky Pulpit, out of the General Meeting mare Chocolate Meeting, was bred by Dutton/Kessler, is owned by Gary and Cecil Barber and is trained by John Sadler. He has four wins in 20 starts, earnings of $149,830 and is coming off a May 26 optional claiming win. ...
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ALBANY, Calif. (June 11, 2014) – Multiple stakes winner Ain’t No Other is one of four California-breds entered in Saturday’s $50,000 Albany Stakes at Golden Gate. Ain’t No Other is by Old Topper, out of the Shadeed mare Miami Margie, was bred by owner Tommy Town Thoroughbreds and is trained by Jerry Hollendorfer. He has 10 wins in 24 starts, earnings of $568,195 and is coming off a win in a May 18 optional claimer. Zehner’s Zenna is by Old Topper, out of the Zen mare Ms Zenna, was bred by Tommy Town Thoroughbreds, is owned by Stewball Stable and trained by Valeria Rhoden. He has six wins in 39 starts, earnings of $214,486 and is coming off a fifth in a May 26 allowance. Stakes winner A Toast to You is by Tribal Rule, out of the Apollo mare Whitewinesipper, was bred by Hidden Meadows Farm, is owned by Steve Moger and trained by Ed Moger, Jr. He has eight wins in 26 starts, earnings of $449,062 and is... ...
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From Los Alamitos CYPRESS, Calif. (June 11, 2014) — Los Alamitos Race Course kicks off its inaugural summer Thoroughbred racing season on Thursday, July 3. In order that you may be a part of this historical meet, Los Alamitos is offering horsemen and loyal fans the following reserved seating options. The Vessels Club brings the excitement of horse racing to a new level of luxury and comfort. This upscale facility is located on the top level of the Los Alamitos Grandstand perfectly situated over the finish line for ultimate viewing. The Vessels Club offers world-class menus delicately prepared and beautifully presented by Executive Chef Sam Gonzalez. In addition, Los Alamitos boasts a wonderful and expansive listing of wines. The Paddock Terrace, located in the Grandstand, offers a pristine view of the Winner’s Circle and races. Tables of four are all equipped with a television. No dress code is required for the Paddock Terrace. To reserve a table for the entire eight-day season, please fill out and return the Reserved Seating Application to Los Alamitos. Options... ...
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By DRF.com CYPRESS, Calif. (June 10, 2014) –Capital improvements continue at Los Alamitos in advance of the track’s July Thoroughbred meeting. On the front side, the walking ring has been expanded about 100 feet into the track apron to accommodate a remodeled winner’s circle and to allow more people, and horses, into the area when horses are being paraded before a race. The new winner’s circle will have two tiers to allow more participation in winner’s circle photos. In addition, the grandstand area adjacent to the Vessels Club restaurant on the second floor has been remodeled with a standing viewing area that will offer an excellent vantage point of the Thoroughbred track that was expanded from five furlongs to a mile last winter. Other improvements on the front side include an upgrade of the television system to high-definition, and a remodeling of bathrooms in the grandstand. On the backstretch, the construction of two barns is nearly complete on property that was previously used as a maintenance yard for tractors and... ...
Read More →By Bloodhorse.com Just more than 60 years ago a trim California-bred with unorthodox connections came East to shock the racing establishment by scoring an upset win in the 1955 Kentucky Derby. His name was Swaps, and he took a couple of “cowboys”—owner Rex Ellsworth and trainer Mesh Tenney, whose ultra-practical style of Western horsemanship didn’t sit well with Eastern racing men and sportswriters—to the heights of American racing. Swaps also earned Horse of the Year honors as a 4-year-old in 1956. Art Sherman was along for the ride when Swaps came east to knock off Eastern favorites Nashua and Summer Tan—literally along for the ride, as he shared Swaps’ boxcar on the way to Louisville and exercised the Derby winner prior to the big race. The following year he was Swaps’ regular exercise rider, and the year after that he took out his jockey’s license. A couple of decades later he became a trainer, and that’s what he’s been doing ever since. Fast forward to 2014, and perhaps Swaps’ ghost... ...
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WILMINGTON, Del. (June 9, 2014) — She’s Ordained is the lone California-bred entered in Thursday’s $50,000 Dashing Beauty Stakes for fillies and mares at Delaware Park. She’s Ordained is by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Not For Love mare Whole Lotta Love, was bred by Tommy Town Thoroughbreds, is owned by Ronald Ulrich and is trained by Timothy Kreiser. She has 14 wins in 34 starts, earnings of $365,525 and is coming off a fourth in the May 16 Skipat Stakes. ...
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ARCADIA, Calif. (June 8, 2014)—Ridden for the first time by Kent Desormeaux, Unusual Heatwave overhauled favored Mega Heat late to win Sunday’s $100,000 Crystal Water Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-olds by three quarters of length, covering one mile on turf in 1:34.17. Trained by Alexis Barba, Unusual Heatwave had been winless in his last six starts, with his most recent victory coming in the Real Good Deal Stakes at Del Mar on Aug. 3, 2012. “He had a bit of problem with his breathing, but we’ve got that addressed now,” said Barba. “We felt he was doing well coming into this race and it was great to see him run well.” With Ethnic Dance, ridden by Edwin Maldonado, showing the way through splits of 23.69, 47.30, 1:10.80 and 1:22.39, Desormeaux had his mount sitting a close third at the rail, just inside of favored Mega Heat, who was ridden by Corey Nakatani. “My biggest concern was, ‘Does Corey have any horse,’” said Desormeaux. “I was just trying to... ...
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ALBANY, Calif. (June 8, 2014) — Snow Chief Stakes winner Awesome Return, bottled up in mid-stretch, persisted late to nose out Alert Bay in the last jump and win Sunday’s $100,000 Silky Sullivan Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-olds at Golden Gate. Awesome Return is by Decarchy, out of the Mr. Broad Blade mare Awesome Broad, was bred by owner Richard Kritzski and trained by Mike Puype. “He was real courageous,” said jockey Joe Talamo. “Look at his form. He’s never run a bad race. I think he has a real bright future.” He has three wins in seven starts, earnings of $256,108 and was coming off a win in the Apr. 26 Snow Chief Stakes. “Great race for the horse today,” said Puype. “He just continues to improve.” Awesome Return ran the mile on turf in 1:36.03 and won by a nose over Alert Bay with Patriots Rule finishing third. For Awesome Return’s pedigree, click http://www.pedigreequery.com/awesome+return. ...
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ALBANY, Calif. (June 8, 2014) — Odds-on favorite Magic Spot led all the way to post a game win in Sunday’s $100,000 Campanile Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-old fillies at Golden Gate. Magic Spot is by Papa Clem, out of the Generous mare Sweet Spot, was bred by Royalty Stables and BG Stables, is owned by BG Stables and Hector Palma and is trained by Palma. She has four wins in eight starts, earnings of $179,060 and was coming off a win in a May 24 optional claimer. Magic Spot ran the mile on turf in 1:36.36 and won by one-half length as the 7-10 favorite with Chati’s On Top second and Global Rule third in the field shortened to four by the scratch of Versye. For Magic Spot’s pedigree, click http://www.pedigreequery.com/magic+spot. ...
Read More →By DRF.com ELMONT, N.Y. (June 8, 2014) – California Chrome emerged from Saturday’s Belmont Stakes with a minor injury to his right front hoof and will be given a lengthy rest before a scheduled return to racing this fall, trainer Art Sherman said Sunday morning at Belmont Park. “He’s good, other than having a good chunk of his quarter cut,” Sherman said. “We’ll get that healed up at the barn for two to three weeks, then stop on him for six or seven weeks, give him some pasture time. He needs a rest.” That itinerary would take California Chrome out of consideration for any major races this summer such as the Travers Stakes at Saratoga or the Pacific Classic at Del Mar. Sherman said his late-season goal with California Chrome is the Nov. 1 Breeders’ Cup Classic at Santa Anita. “We’ll keep him in California, get him ready for the Breeders’ Cup,” Sherman said. “It’s where he runs his best races. It’s home for us.” California Chrome flew back to California... ...
Read More →By DRF.com ELMONT, N.Y. (June 7, 2014) — Victor Espinoza knew early on this wasn’t going to be California Chrome’s day. Espinoza said that California Chrome didn’t show the same energy early on in Saturday’s Belmont Stakes that he had shown in winning the Kentucky Derby and Preakness and he trudged home in a dead-heat for fourth with Wicked Strong, two lengths behind Tonalist in the 146th Belmont Stakes. Espinoza didn’t have a concrete reason why California Chrome was flat on Saturday, but the colt was seen to have blood coming from his right front foot, known as a grabbed quarter, as he walked back through the tunnel after the race. Espinoza believes it may have occurred coming out of the starting gate. “I think he might have stepped on himself out of the gate,” Espinoza said. “I noticed when I jumped off him he was bleeding a little bit in the right front. Maybe that affected him.” ::2014 BELMONT STAKES: Recap, video, chart, and more Watching the head-on replay,... ...
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ELMONT, N.Y. (June 7, 2014) — California Chrome finished in a dead-heat for fourth in Saturday’s $1.5 million, Grade I Belmont Stakes, ending his attempt to become the first California-bred Triple Crown winner in history and the sport’s first Triple Crown winner in 36 years. According to DRF, California Chrome returned with a cut on his right front foot. Tonalist won the race, followed by Commissioner and Medal Count. California Chrome finished in a tie with Wicked Strong for fourth. The son of Lucky Pulpit, who previously won the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes, is out of the Not For Love mare Love the Chase, was bred and owned by Steve Coburn and Perry Martin, trained by Art Sherman and was ridden by Victor Espinoza. ...
Read More →By DRF.com ELMONT, N.Y. (June 7, 2014) — It’s about 5:30 a.m. the morning of the Belmont Stakes, and dual classic winner California Chrome is sauntering down the horsepath under the trees, ears pricked, seemingly unperturbed by the handful of press and well-wishers here to get one final look the morning of the most significant test of his young life. Exercise rider Willie Delgado pats the colt on the neck, then throws a thumbs-up to the rider of a passing horse who hollers a good luck wish to the horse looking to end 36 years of crushed hopes if he can sweep the Triple Crown later today. California Chrome steps onto the gap near the 10-furlong pole of the massive Belmont Park oval, turning the wrong way to jog a lap, just stretching his legs before the 1 1/2-mile Test of the Champion at about 6:52 this evening. He passes the point where the starting gate will be positioned today, where he’ll load in post 2 and be asked to... ...
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By Clare Novak, Bloodhorse.com ELMONT, N.Y. (June 6, 2014) — We come to this place in search of greatness. Through the echoing halls and spacious tree-lined Belmont Park backstretch we roam, and in the days before the Belmont Stakes (gr. I) we wonder—could this horse be the one? With every potential winner, every story of assorted connections and the paths they took to get here; our faith begins to rise. Something about every Triple Crown hopeful, every year with our sport’s greatest prize on the line, gives most of us that inkling. Surely, it is time. If California Chrome gallops around the sweeping turns of Big Sandy June 7 and into hundreds upon thousands of hearts as the 12th Triple Crown winner in history and the first since 1978, it will be against the reputation of the modern Thoroughbred—that fragile beast who dazzles with great performances but just as quickly disappoints, then vanishes to greener pastures. ANGST: Waiting, and Waiting, for Crowning Glory If 77-year-old trainer Art Sherman finds the Belmont winner’s... ...
Read More →By Bloodhorse.com ELMONT, N.Y. (June 6, 2014) — Few who were present will forget the Friday morning before the Belmont Stakes (gr. I) of 2012, when Triple Crown hopes were dashed with the injury of I’ll Have Another . So members of the media joined Team Sherman and the connections of California Chrome in breathing a sigh of relief on that same day two years later June 6. The winner of the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) and the Preakness Stakes (gr. I) completed his final gallop with flying colors leading into the June 7 test. Only one more morning to go. California Chrome made his usual journey to the Belmont Park oval under exercise rider William Delgado, swinging through the paddock to school before continuing out for a routine gallop under the supervision of assistant trainer Alan Sherman. He was followed by the usual media throng that assembles to track the pre-race progress of a Triple Crown hopeful, but never turned a hair. “We took him to... ...
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SACRAMENTO, Calif. (June 6, 2014) — Cal Expo will be hosting the party of the week on Saturday, June 7, when California Chrome runs in the Belmont Stakes and attempts to become the first horse from California to win the Triple Crown. Purchase a special $38 admission ticket and come enjoy this historic day with us in the newly renovated and air conditioned Sports and Wagering Center Club House with a gourmet breakfast, buffet lunch, official racing program, reserved seating and much more. Cal Expo is the only location in our area you can officially place wagers on the Belmont Stakes. Be a part of the excitement with other racing enthusiasts at the newest racetrack in California. California Chrome will attempt to make history by becoming the first horse since 1978 (Affirmed) to win the Triple Crown. A California horse has never won the Triple Crown guaranteeing excitement for Saturday’s race. California Chrome was foaled on February 18, 2011 in Coalinga, California at Harris Farms. He has been noted for... ...
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From NTRA NEW YORK, N.Y. (June 5, 2014) – Seventeen members of Congress signed a letter delivered to the Department of Treasury on Tuesday requesting clarification to regulations regarding the way pari-mutuel winnings are calculated for tax purposes. The letter, which has garnered bipartisan support, was co-authored by Rep. Charles Boustany (R-LA) and Rep. John Yarmuth (D-KY). The additional signatories are Rep. Andy Barr (R-KY), Rep. Chris Gibson (R-NY), Rep. Tim Griffin (R-AR), Rep. Brett Guthrie (R-KY), Rep. David Jolly (R-FL), Rep. Rich Nugent (R-FL), Rep. Devin Nunes (R-CA), Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ), Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr. (D-NJ), Rep. Tom Reed (R-NY), Rep. Hal Rogers (R-KY), Rep. Tom Rooney (R-FL), Rep. Mike Thompson (D-CA), Rep. Paul Tonko (D-NY) and Rep. Todd Young (R-IN). Nearly 3,000 citizens signed a Change.org petition in support of the clarification within its first 48 hours. The petition is available here: http://chn.ge/RXZ6DW. “It is encouraging that this important clarification has received bipartisan support from members of Congress representing so many states. This demonstrates the significant economic... ...
Read More →By DRF.com ELMONT, N.Y. (June 5, 2014) — California Chrome schooled at the starting gate for the second and final time June 5 at rainy Belmont Park as his date with destiny in the $1.5 million Belmont Stakes (gr. I) draws closer. At 6:30 a.m., California Chrome set foot on Belmont Park’s main track and jogged approximately 1 3/8 miles clockwise before arriving at the starting gate in the 1 1/8-mile chute on the backstretch. There he stood in the gate, backed out, and began an easy 1 1/4-mile gallop outside the cones that had been placed on the muddy main track. “He was perfect in there (the gate),” said Alan Sherman, assistant to his father, trainer Art Sherman. California Chrome has won six straight races, including the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands and Preakness (both gr. I). He is attempting to become the 12th thoroughbred in history to win the Triple Crown and first since Affirmed in 1978. Sherman said California Chrome, who is owned by Steve Coburn... ...
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By Jay Hovdey, DRF.com ELMONT, N.Y. (June 5, 2014) — The melting point of chromium is 3,465 degrees Fahrenheit, 1,857 degrees Centigrade, or 20 minutes spent in an underground New York City garage on a warm weekday evening waiting for someone to find your rental car. If California Chrome wins the Belmont Stakes on Saturday to become the 12th winner of the Triple Crown, he will have withstood more heat and more pressure than any American Thoroughbred since Affirmed said “no means no” to Alydar 36 years ago. ::2014 BELMONT STAKES: Latest news, video, PPs, and more If California Chrome wins, he will honor the Triple Crown heartbreaks of Silver Charm being ambushed in the last yards by Touch Gold, of Real Quiet nipped at the very end by Victory Gallop, of Smarty Jones, that most generous of Thoroughbreds, fighting back a wave of attacks until he had nothing left to answer Birdstone. If California Chrome wins, he should get the key to every city with a racetrack, every town... ...
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ARCADIA, Calif. (June 5, 2014) – John Scott makes his first start since winning this race last year, and Ethnic Dance makes his first start since winning last year’s Del Mar Derby, in Sunday’s $100,000 Crystal Water Stakes for Golden State Series eligibles 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 five wins in 27 starts, earnings of $735,092 and is coming off a second in the Apr. 26 Tiznow Stakes. Jules Journey is a Kentucky-bred by Good Journey, who was standing in California, out of the Flag Down mare Flag Down the Mint, was bred by Sean & Barbara Speck, is owned by James Cassidy and Mary DeLahut and is trained by Cassidy. He has three wins in 17 starts, earnings of $197,490 and is coming off a second in a May 10 optional claimer. He was third in this race last year.... ...
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ALBANY, Calif. (June 5, 2014) – Snow Chief Stakes winner Awesome Return is one of three stakes winners entered in Sunday’s $100,000 Silky Sullivan Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-olds at Golden Gate. Awesome Return is by Decarchy, out of the Mr. Broad Blade mare Awesome Broad, was bred by owner Richard Kritzski and trained by Mike Puype. He has two wins in six starts, earnings of $201,108 and is coming off a win in the Apr. 26 Snow Chief Stakes. Stakes winner Alert Bay is by City Zip, out of the Dushyantor mare Hickory, was bred by Thomas Bell and Ross McLeod, is owned by Peter Redekop and trained by Blaine Wright. He has three wins in seven starts, earnings of $215,300 and is coming off a third in the Apr. 26 Snow Chief Stakes Stakes winner Aotearoa is by Good Journey, out of the Lil Tyler mare Madera Royal, was bred by owner Paul Viskovich and is trained by Leonard Powell. He has two wins in eight... ...
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ALBANY, Calif. (June 5, 2014) – All five entrants will be seeking their first stakes win in Sunday’s 100,000 Campanile Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-old fillies at Golden Gate. Versye is by Square Eddie, out of the Jade Hunter mare Sarah Jade, was bred by owner J. Paul Reddam and is trained by Doug O’Neill. She has one win in three starts, earnings of $34,050 and is coming off a sixth in a May. 22 optional claimer. Shakeitupbetty is by Ghostzapper, out of the Is It True mare Ring True, was bred by Thomas Bachman, is owned by Seltzer Thoroughbreds and trained by J. Eric Kruljac. She has two wins in five starts, earnings of $91,720 and is coming off a win in a May 1 optional claimer. Chati’s On Top is by Old Topper, out of the Globalize mare Chati Valley, was bred by Bill Delia, H.C. Martin and Ray Pagano, is owned by Little Red Feather Racing and Marcia Naify and is trained by Mike Puype.... ...
Read More →By Bloodhorse.com NEW YORK, N.Y. — On his first day ever in New York, Steve Coburn, part owner and breeder of California Chrome, was interviewed by NBC and spent the rest of the time as a tourist. “It’s been go, go, go since we got here” for Coburn and his wife, Carolyn, who took a tour of Rockefeller Center and the Empire State building on June 3. They are in the city to see California Chrome take aim at the Belmont Stakes (gr. I) June 7 at Belmont Park attempting to become the first Triple Crown winner since Affirmed in 1978. Coburn arrived in New York by jet along with trainer Art Sherman the afternoon of June 2 and spent his first night adjusting to the time change from the West Coast. Coburn and his wife reside in Topaz Lake, NV., where he is a press operator for a small company that makes magnetic strips for credit cards. Sherman accompanied the Coburns on the interview and also went sightseeing with them. The... ...
Read More →By Dick Jerardi, DRF.com ELMONT, N.Y. (June 4, 2014) — I am not quite sure what Spectacular Bid, Silver Charm, Real Quiet, and Smarty Jones have to do with Saturday’s Belmont Stakes, other than that their names will get typed thousands of times this week as reasons why California Chrome can’t win. I am going to give you the most obvious reason why he can win: California Chrome is the best horse. So, let’s start there and forget the history. Whenever anybody cites history in sporting events, I cringe. I don’t care what happened between Auburn and Alabama in 1986. I want to know who is playing today. I will evaluate these players and these coaches. So, let’s evaluate the Belmont Stakes in the context of 2014. Let’s not be afraid of what happened in 1979, 1997, 1998, or 2004. California Chrome has won six consecutive stakes, four graded, three Grade 1s. He has earned three Beyer Speed Figures of 105 or more. The likely opposition has won a combined... ...
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By DRF.com ELMONT, N.Y. – California Chrome’s final quest for the Triple Crown will begin from post 2, and the colt was installed as the heavy favorite against a relatively sizable field when the post positions were drawn and morning line established for the $1.5 million Belmont Stakes, to be contested Saturday. California Chrome, seeking to become the 12th Triple Crown winner, and first since Affirmed in 1978, is the 3-5 morning line favorite in the field of 11 entered Wednesday morning. The field assembled would be the largest Belmont group defeated by a Triple Crown winner; Citation (1948) and Seattle Slew (1977) each faced seven rivals. California Chrome is by Lucky Pulpit, out of the Not For Love mare Love the Chase, was bred by owners Perry Martin and Steve Coburn, is trained by Art Sherman and will be ridden by Victor Espinoza. He has eight wins in 12 starts and earnings of $3,452,650. ::2014 BELMONT STAKES: Latest news, video, and more California Chrome has won six consecutive races... ...
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By Bloodhorse.com POMONA, Calif. (June 3, 2014) — Fairplex Park will remain open as part of Southern California’s off-site stabling through the Breeders’ Cup World Champions this fall rather than closing July 10 as earlier planned. California’s stabling and vanning committee met June 3 and agreed unanimously to the extension, in part so that local horsemen would have plenty of stabling during the Breeders’ Cup when many shippers arrive. The Breeders’ Cup is set for Oct. 31-Nov. 1 at Santa Anita Park. After Betfair Hollywood Park closed last year, the horses that stabled there year-round had to find other accommodations. The industry worked to have 500 stalls available at each of three locations–Fairplex in Pomona, Los Alamitos in Cypress, and San Luis Rey Downs in Bonsall, with the idea of phasing out Fairplex as Los Alamitos and San Luis Rey Downs built additional stalls. However, during the Del Mar meeting, which will open July 17, Santa Anita will be closed for training so that it can complete construction projects that... ...
Read More →By Bloodhorse.com ELMONT, N.Y. (June 3, 2014) — Triple Crown hopeful California Chrome went for a slow and easy gallop over the main track at Belmont Park June 3, with 77-year-old trainer Art Sherman on hand to watch after arriving from California the previous day. His stable star is aiming to become the 12th Triple Crown champion with a victory in the June 7 million Belmont Stakes (gr. I). “I haven’t been back here for a lot of years, and I rode here years ago,” said Sherman, who won more than 2,000 races as a jockey from 1957-78. “It’s changed quite a bit. I didn’t realize it was this big. After you get away from it, it’s a huge racetrack. It’s beautiful. It’s good to be back.” After schooling in the paddock, California Chrome got a hug around the neck from regular exercise rider Willie Delgado before heading to the 1 12-mile track, where he jogged a half-mile before turning around for his 2 3/8-mile gallop. “I thought he looked... ...
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When retired school teacher Alex Paszkeicz made the improbable jump to being an owner, breeder, and trainer, no one could have guessed the move would result in multiple stakes horses and more than $3.5 million in earnings. http://issuu.com/californiathoroughbred/docs/califthor-2014-6?e=1664187/8101693 ...
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From TAA LEXINGTON, Ky. (June 3, 2014) – Racing fans at Belmont Park looking for a timely keepsake of California Chrome’s bid for a Triple Crown can visit a special Green Screen photo booth on the first floor grandstand (near the winner’s circle) on Belmont Stakes Day, Saturday, June 7th to promote the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance (TAA). Fans can support the retirement, retraining and adoption of former racehorses across North America with a $10 contribution and have their picture superimposed onto a racing photograph of California Chrome. Tagged images can be immediately uploaded to social media accounts (Facebook, Twitter, or email) and fans will receive a souvenir “4 x 6” photograph. The booth is sponsored by Daily Racing Form (DRF), and 100% of the proceeds will go to Thoroughbred aftercare. “Sherman Racing is proud to do all we can for The Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance. It is important what they do, so bringing attention to that is important to us,” said Alan Sherman, assistant trainer of California Chrome, whose connections... ...
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From NTRA NEW YORK CITY (June 3, 2014) – The National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA) today released a copy of a bipartisan letter from key members of Congress asking the Department of Treasury to clarify regulations regarding the way pari-mutuel winnings are calculated for tax purposes. The NTRA is also calling on horse racing industry participants and customers to express their support of the effort by signing a Change.org petition available here: http://chn.ge/RXZ6DW. The letter to the Secretary of the Department of Treasury was co-authored by Rep. Charles Boustany (R-LA) and Rep. John Yarmuth (D-KY) and co-signed by more than a dozen other congressmen. The request for clarification urges the inclusion of a bettor’s entire investment in a single pari-mutuel pool to determine the amount reported or withheld for tax purposes, as opposed to only the amount wagered on the correct result. This issue typically arises in the context of increasingly popular exotic wagers. For example, under the proposed clarification, the amount wagered by a Pick 6 player who hits... ...
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ARCADIA, Calif. (June 4, 2014) – Frensham is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Grade III Affirmed Stakes for 3-year-olds at Santa Anita. Frensham is by Square Eddie, out of the Formal Gold mare Farnham, was bred by J. Paul Reddam, is owned by Zilah Reddam and trained by Doug O’Neill. He has one win in five starts, earnings of $56,550 and is coming off a maiden win May 9. ...
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SHAKOPEE, Minn. (June 4, 2014) – California-breds Vonn Nez, Enlightened and Chumash are entered in Saturday’s $75,000 Minnesota H.B.P.A. Distaff Stakes for fillies and mares at Canterbury Park. Vonn Nez is by Storm Creek, out of the Iz a Saros mare Iza Bay, was bred by J. Chance Kruljac, is owned by Windy Lea Farms and trained by Valorie Lund. She has three wins in 38 starts, earnings of $90,165 and is coming off a fourth in a May 25 optional claimer. Enlightened is by Larry the Legend, out of the Moscow Ballet mare Glimmering, was bred by Robert Englekirk, Craig Lewis and Lawrence Lewis, is owned by Windy Lea Farms and trained by Valorie Lund. She has eight wins in 29 starts, earnings of $98,548 and is coming off a win in a May 25 optional claimer. Chumash is by Tribal Rule, out of the Bertrando mare Belle Armour, was bred by Pam and Marty Wygod, is owned by Tine Clements and is trained by Robertino... ...
Read More →By Bloodhorse.com ELMONT, N.Y. (June 2, 2014) — Triple Crown hopeful California Chrome was out for some exercise on Belmont Park’s main track the morning of June 2, jogging once clockwise around the 1 1/2-mile oval under regular exercise rider Willie Delgado. The handsome chestnut colt, who is easy to spot on the track with his distinctive white blaze, walked the shedrow Sunday morning following Saturday’s final serious work for $1.5 million Belmont Stakes (gr. I). The winner of the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) and Preakness Stakes (gr. I) is attempting to become the first horse since Affirmed in 1978 to sweep all three races and become the 12th Triple Crown winner. California Chrome is scheduled to resume galloping Tuesday morning. Trainer Art Sherman is expected to be on hand. The 77-year-old trainer returned to California following the Preakness, with his son, Alan, overseeing the colt’s preparations in New York. Read more on BloodHorse.com: http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/85448/california-chrome-stretches-legs-at-belmont#ixzz33WP5a5m7 ...
Read More →By ESPN.com The owners of California Chrome signed their first major sponsorship deal for the horse ahead of his attempt to be the first Triple Crown winner in 36 years. Shoe brand Skechers will be featured on everything from the apparel of the horse’s handlers to the horse’s blanket, or fly sheet, to the barn leading up to the Belmont Stakes on June 7. The deal also requires team members to wear Skechers branding in the winner’s circle should the horse win and allows Skechers to use California Chrome in marketing materials for a month after the race. Terms were not disclosed, but a source with knowledge of the deal said it’s the largest deal in horse racing since UPS paid IAEH Stables to advertise on Triple Crown hopeful Big Brown in 2008. “We’re a marketing company that just happens to be in the footwear business,” said Robert Greenberg, the chief executive for Skechers, which headquartered in California. “We’re spending a couple bucks to the roll the dice and if... ...
Read More →By Bloodhorse.com Triple Crown hopeful California Chrome looked sharp in his final workout May 31 in preparation for the upcoming Belmont Stakes (gr. I), breezing a half-mile under regular rider Victor Espinoza in a quick :47.69 at Belmont Park. “It was great,” Espinoza said. “I started not too fast…and I picked it up a little bit at the end. When we crossed the wire, I kind of dropped the reins a little bit and he did what he always does: his job.” Steve Coburn and Perry Martin’s homebred son of Lucky Pulpit is seeking to become the 12th horse in history to sweep the Kentucky Derby (gr. I), Preakness Stakes (gr. I) and Belmont and the first Crown winner since Affirmed in 1978. He impressed on-lookers with his presence over a track playing fast after being sealed overnight because of light rain in the New York area. “The horse worked great,” assistant trainer Alan Sherman said. “(The track) seems to be fast today. A little moisture last night, I think, tightened... ...
Read More →By San Jose Mercury News COALINGA — Here at Harris Farms, just a whiff away from the cattle feed lots along Interstate 5, an all-female foaling crew helped deliver a precocious chestnut colt named California Chrome, smothering him with hugs and kisses. It was here that exercise rider Chendo Michel cinched the future champion’s first saddle, groomer Chuy Horta iced his tender white ankles, and co-owners Steve Coburn and Perry Martin first won his affections with a bag of Mrs. Pastures cookies. This is the birthplace of California Chrome, who on Saturday will attempt to become the first horse in 36 years to win racing’s coveted Triple Crown — and the first ever from California. The white rail fences and mulberry trees, foaling pens and training barns of his first two years are more than 2,000 miles away from where the 3-year-old colt won the Kentucky Derby and Preakness last month and even farther from the Belmont Stakes. It’s where his most-devoted followers will crowd around a television... ...
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By Tracy Gantz The Oak Tree Racing Association and the Pleasanton race meeting are joining forces to boost interest in Northern California racing. Through sponsorships to the Pleasanton stakes schedule and an increase in marketing, Oak Tree will add more excitement to the Pleasanton meet, which traditionally kicks off the summer Northern California racing circuit. Pleasanton has been rebranded as Oak Tree at Pleasanton, complete with its new designation of OTP in past performances and charts. As such, the June 19-July 6 meeting will benefit from Oak Tree’s long experience and history of conducting some of the most successful race meetings in the country, including hosting five Breeders’ Cups. “Oak Tree Racing Association is very pleased to be racing again this summer at the Pleasanton Race Course, the oldest racing surface in California, having been first built in 1858,” said Oak Tree President John Barr. “We will operate this meet in cooperation with the Alameda County Fair, which will be open during the same time period and... ...
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From AHC House Committee Approves USDA Appropriations Bill On May 29, 2014, the House Appropriations Committee approved its version of the FY 2015 Agriculture Appropriations bill. This bill provides funding for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for the 2015 fiscal year (October 1, 2014 through September 30, 2015). The bill contains several provisions that impact the horse industry, including funding for USDA equine health activities, enforcement of the Horse Protection Act and a provision that would prohibit funding for USDA inspections at U.S. horse slaughter facilities. The Senate Appropriations Committee approved its version of 2015 Agriculture Appropriations bill on May 22. Information about that bill can be found at: http://www.horsecouncil.org/senate-committee-approves-usda-appropriations-bill FY 2015 House USDA Appropriations Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service and Equine Health The bill would provide $867.5 million for the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). APHIS is the USDA agency responsible for protecting and promoting U.S. agricultural health, including responding to contagious equine disease outbreaks. Funding for Equine, Cervid, and Small Rumiant health... ...
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ARCADIA, Calif. (May 30, 2014) — Freshman California sire The Pamplemousse’s first starter Big Swag was a $56,000 maiden allowance daylight winner at Santa Anita. Big Swag is out of the Boundary broodmare Border Fire a multiple stakes placed winner of $296,703. The juvenile broke alertly and was pressed along by the favorite until the head of the stretch when the gray gelding drew off by daylight and scored by three and a quarter lengths in 52.23. Bred in California by Hayes and Hayes this juvenile had a solid worktab for his debut, including a bullet 35 and 3 move from the gate, for trainer Dan Hendricks and owners Hayes, Higman, McGuire, et al. He picked up the Cal-bred/sired bonus of $17,500 and the $33,600 winners share of the purse. ...
Read More →By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (May 30, 2014) — In time for his planned May 31 breeze, Triple Crown hopeful California Chrome got a visit from farrier Judd Fisher and a new set of shoes at Belmont Park. Steve Coburn and Perry Martin’s winner of the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) and the Preakness Stakes (gr. I) had the routine footwork done May 30 around 1 p.m. EDT under the watchful eye of assistant trainer Alan Sherman, who said the completed job looks “outstanding.” Fisher, who flew in specifically to shoe California Chrome before his June 7 engagement in the Belmont Stakes (gr. I), adapted a glue-on shoe produced by Thoro’Bred Racing Plate Company. Instead of attaching the shoe with adhesive, he now nails them into place. “It was made to be glued on with an adhesive, but I didn’t use the adhesive, I just nailed it on,” Fisher said. “I just wanted to get him up off his sole a little bit more than he was. It... ...
Read More →By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (May 30, 2014) — California breeders and the state’s entire racing industry could not find a better horse to carry their brand. Or a better name. On the verge of making Triple Crown history, California Chrome has been a tremendous morale booster for a state breeding and racing program left reeling by its downward spiral for several years. “A horse like California Chrome really increases our visibility,” said Doug Burge, president of the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association. “Even his name is an advertisement for our breeding program. I’m so glad they selected that name for him. You should have seen some of the other names on the list.” Such as SeaBisquick, which was one of the other possible names on the owners’ short list. Cute, but not quite the same ring. The charismatic chestnut carries the state’s pride as the first California-bred to win the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands and Preakness (both gr. I). Excitement over the potential of such an unlikely Triple Crown... ...
Read More →EDMONTON, Canada (May 24, 2014) — The Spinmeister, a Kentucky-bred son of California stallion Heatseeker, won last Saturday’s $48,620 Western Canada Handicap at Northlands Park. The Spinmeister ran the six furlongs in 1:11.46 and won by a neck. For The Spinmeister’s pedigree, click http://www.pedigreequery.com/the+spinmeister. ...
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ARCADIA, Calif. (May 29, 2014) — Storm Fighter is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $200,000 Grade II Californian 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 trained by Bruce Headley. He has three wins in seven starts, earnings of $159,718 and is coming off a win in the Apr. 26 Tiznow Stakes. ...
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EDMONTON, Canada — The Spinmeister, a Kentucky-bred son of California stallion Heatseeker, won last Saturday’s $48,620 Western Canada Handicap at Northlands Park. The Spinmeister ran the six furlongs in 1:11.46 and won by a neck. For The Spinmeister’s pedigree, click http://www.pedigreequery.com/the+spinmeister. ...
Read More →By Bloodhorse.com Triple Crown hopeful California Chrome on May 28 picked back up where he left off the previous day, showing the same eagerness he displayed a day earlier when galloping his customary two-mile circuit on an overcast morning at Belmont Park. “Yesterday he pulled, and today he pulled farther,” said California Chrome’s exercise rider Willie Delgado. “And then he pulled up and he wasn’t even blowing out a match. Fitness wise, he’s fit. Come the day of the race, like I always said, it’s all up to him and God. I can’t say enough. He’s really, really improving. Like I’ve always said, after each race he got better. He’s out on weight, he’s gotten stronger.” The 3-year-old Lucky Pulpit colt is trying to become the first Triple Crown winner in 36 years, after sweeping the first two legs in sensational fashion. “He went really strong today; he was feeling good,” said assistant trainer Alan Sherman, son of trainer Art Sherman. The Belmont Stakes field got a little deeper in... ...
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STAMFORD, Conn. – (May 28, 2014) – NBC Sports Group presents 16 hours of programming surrounding the 146th Belmont Stakes – more than double the number of hours initially scheduled – beginning next Wednesday, June 4. On Saturday, June 7 at 4:30 p.m. ET on NBC, California Chrome runs for history, aiming to become the first Triple Crown winner since Affirmed in 1978. Coverage begins Wednesday, June 4, at 6:30 p.m. ET on NBCSN with California Chrome: The Unlikely Champion,a special 30–minute documentary narrated by Bob Costas, detailing the story of an unlikely team of horsemen in co-owners Steve Coburn and Perry Martin coming together with trainer Art Sherman and jockey Victor Espinoza to take their horse to the brink of the Triple Crown. Coverage continues with Belmont Classics Thursday, June 5, at 5:30 p.m. ET on NBCSN, with a look at past Belmont Stakes winners including three consecutive Triple Crown upsets: 2002 winner Sarava (beat Triple Crown hopeful War Emblem), 2003 winner Empire Maker ridden by... ...
Read More →By DRF.com ELMONT, N.Y. (May 24, 2014) – Being based mostly in Southern California, California Chrome had rarely, if ever, seen a wet track. During his Triple Crown run, California Chrome has seen his share of them in Kentucky, Baltimore, and especially here in New York. If you listen to his exercise rider, Willie Delgado, California Chrome didn’t appear to like it at Churchill Downs but floated over it at Pimlico. On Saturday, for the third straight morning, California Chrome galloped nearly two miles over a wet Belmont Park surface, and he seemed to handle it just fine. “Churchill wasn’t his favorite track; he never actually felt comfortable on it,” Delgado said Saturday morning, two hours after galloping California Chrome over a sealed, sloppy main track. “Even at Pimlico, when we went out that one day and it was raining, he floated over it. Here especially, he’s really taken to this tack … I don’t see him having any problem with a wet track here.” So far, California Chrome hasn’t encountered... ...
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From CHRB ARCADIA, Calif. (May 24, 2014) – The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Thursday, May 22, 2014, at Santa Anita Park. Chairman Chuck Winner presided. 1st Vice Chair Bo Derek, 2nd Vice Chair Richard Rosenberg and Commissioners Madeline Auerbach, Steve Beneto, Jesse Choper, and George Krikorian were in attendance. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link. In brief: · The Board approved the first non-fair thoroughbred race meet at Los Alamitos race course, home of a year-round quarter horse meet, commencing July 3 through July 13. Los Alamitos will offer thoroughbred cards on Thursday-through-Sunday afternoons as well as night quarter horse programs weekend nights except July 4. Both HRTV and TVG will show the thoroughbred races. · The Board approved the summer thoroughbred meet at Del Mar from July 17 through September 3. Del Mar Chief Operating Officer Josh Rubinstein reported that for the first time, both HRTV and TVG will broadcast the races for... ...
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ARCADIA, Calif. (May 24, 2014) — Cyclometer is the lone California-bred entered in Monday’s $100,000 Grade III Los Angeles Handicap at Santa Anita. Cyclometer is by Cyclotron, out of the Eastern Echo mare Moana Loa, was bred by owners Bruce Headley, Irwin Molasky and Andrew Molasky and is trained by Headley. He has five wins in 20 starts, earnings of $357,004 and is coming off a third in the Apr. 12 Potrero Grande. ...
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ALBANY, Calif. (May 24, 2014) – Defending champion Summer Hit and fellow California-breds China Prince, Pepper Crown and Minister Vivendi are entered in Monday’s $100,000 Grade III All American Stakes at Golden Gate. 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 10 wins in 19 starts, earnings of $472,219 and is coming off a second in the Apr. 26 San Francisco Mile Stakes. He won this race last year. China Prince is by Peppered Cat, out of the Corslew mare China Princess, was bred by Baljit Singh, is owned by West Point Thoroughbreds and trained by Craig Dollase. He has four wins in 13 starts, earnings of $177,028 and is coming off a third in the Ape. 26 Tiznow. Pepper Crown is by Peppered Cat, out of the Crowning Storm mare Crown This Lady, was bred by owner and breeder Alex Paszkeicz.... ...
Read More →By Bloodhorse.com ELMONT, N.Y. (May 24, 2014) — Triple Crown contender California Chrome was unfazed the morning of May 23 when he encountered an opossum that decided to cross the main track at Belmont Park near the end of the colt’s daily gallop. California Chrome, who on June 7 will attempt to add the Belmont Stakes (gr. I) to his victories in the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands and Preakness Stakes (both gr. I), didn’t even flinch as he passed the cat-sized marsupial near the gap. He completed his 1 3/4-mile gallop much to the satisfaction of exercise rider Willie Delgado and assistant trainer Alan Sherman. “We have coyotes on the track at Los Alamitos; it was no big deal,” said Alan Sherman, assistant to his father, Art Sherman. “The track was a little heavier than it was yesterday, but (California Chrome) seemed to handle it fine.” Sherman said California Chrome likely would school in the paddock once or twice next week, and also school in the starting gate... ...
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By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (May 24, 2014) — Santa Anita Park has announced that it’s one mile main track will undergo a major renovation beginning July 11 following conclusion of the Southern California facility’s first spring stand. The renovation will result in the track transitioning to a single-source material consisting of highly coveted El Segundo Sand, a natural soil that will ensure balanced drainage during periods of wet weather and a uniform, safe cushion year round. “Beginning July 11, we’re going to take out the existing surface and go down to the base of the track,” said Dennis Moore, Santa Anita track superintendent. “At that point, we’ll survey the existing base and ensure we’re meeting all specifications relative to slope and grade. “We’re going to be moving 20,000-plus yards of material and we anticipate this process is going to take about four or five weeks,” Moore added. “We’re very fortunate to have been able to locate this soil which is currently being excavated due to construction projects over at LAX... ...
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ARCADIA, Calif. (May 22, 2014) — Back-to-back stakes winner Tribal Spy and fellow California-breds Qiaona and Top Kisser are entered in Sunday’s $75,000 Mizdirection Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita. Tribal Spy is by Tribal Rule, out of the Victory Gallop mare Victory Spy, was bred by Gary Barber, is owned by Triple B Farms and trained by Adam Kitchingman. She has six wins in 15 starts, earnings of $298,610 and is coming off consecutive stakes wins. Qiaona is by Wilko, out of the Skywalker mare Starlet Sky, was bred by B & B Zietz Stables, is owned by Curt and Lila Lanning and trained by Ed Moger Jr. She has four wins in 17 starts, earnings of $446,244 and is making her first start since a fourth in the Nov. 17 Cat’s Cradle. Top Kisser is by Old Topper, out of the Cherokee Run mare Cherokee Kiss, was bred by owner Tommy Town Thoroughbreds and trained by Jerry Hollendorfer. She has five wins in nine starts, earnings of... ...
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From NTRA WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 22, 2014) — Progress on the EXPIRE Act (S. 2260), legislation that would extend expired or expiring tax provisions through 2015, has been delayed until at least next month, according to Senate Finance Committee Chairman Ron Wyden (D-OR). Senator Wyden said earlier this week that he hopes to work with Committee ranking member Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-UT) over the Memorial Day recess to resolve an amendments standoff that has halted progress of the $85 billion bill. Several of the provisions in the EXPIRE Act will directly impact horse owners and breeders. Most notable of these is a provision to extend the three-year recovery period for younger racehorses that expired at the end of 2013. This faster depreciation schedule replaced a seven-year recovery period that does not accurately reflect current-day investment behavior in racehorses. Unless the Act becomes law, the seven-year schedule will be in place for 2014. Additional provisions in the EXPIRE Act that will positively impact investment in qualified property for horse racing and... ...
Read More →From DMTC DEL MAR, Calif. (May 22, 2014) — “Ship and Win,” Del Mar’s prosperous program that has attracted hundreds of out-of-state racehorses to the seaside oval over the past three summers, is back for another season in 2014 with its lucrative incentives attached once more. The policy – initiated by Del Mar Thoroughbred Club in partnership with Thoroughbred Owners of California in 2011 – currently offers a guaranteed $1,000 check to all starters, as well as a 33 1/3% bonus payment (stakes races excluded) on top of any purse monies won in a first start at Del Mar to owners of horses who last raced outside California. Del Mar’s 75th racing season will begin on Thursday, July 17 and continue through to Wednesday, September 3. In an additional wrinkle to this year’s program given the new racing calendar in Southern California, Del Mar will be offering a special consideration to its sister racetracks Santa Anita and Los Alamitos. Horses that come from out-of-state and run first either during the... ...
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By DRF.com ELMONT, N.Y. (May 22, 2014) — California Chrome got to stretch his legs at Belmont Park on Thursday, with his first gallop over the surface, and assistant trainer Alan Sherman liked what he saw. California Chrome “took to the track like you can’t believe,” Sherman said. “This horse keeps on amazing me.” With wins in the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes, California Chrome will seek to become the sport’s 12th Triple Crown winner in the Belmont Stakes on June 7. He has won six straight races, including all five of his starts this year. After winning the Preakness on Saturday, California Chrome remained at Pimlico until Tuesday morning, when he was sent by van to Belmont Park. He jogged over the track on Wednesday, then stepped up his training to a gallop on Thursday. California Chrome will continue to gallop until a half-mile workout on May 31, scheduled to be the lone workout for California Chrome between the Preakness and the Belmont. He did not work between the... ...
Read More →By Bloodhorse ELMONT, N.Y. (May 21, 2014) — Triple Crown hopeful California Chrome set foot on the Belmont Park main track for the first time May 21, leisurely jogging once around the 1 1/2-mile course with exercise rider Willie Delgado aboard. California Chrome, who arrived at Belmont a day earlier, hit the track at approximately 6:45 a.m. EDT, and for the next 12 minutes jogged clockwise near the outer rail before slowing to a walk for the final sixteenth of a mile. “He actually surprised me, how good he was feeling this morning,” said Alan Sherman, assistant trainer to his father, Art Sherman. “It’s amazing how quick this horse is bouncing back off these big races he’s running. He was dragging me around the shed row, he dragged Willie around the track today. He was really feeling good.” Alan Sherman said California Chrome, who is owned by Steven Coburn and Perry Martin, will start galloping May 22, which will provide a better idea of how the colt handles the Belmont... ...
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From CHRB ARCADIA, Calif. (May 20, 2014) — The proposal to move Los Angeles County Fair racing dates to Los Alamitos Race Course, originally scheduled for discussion and possible action at this Thursday’s meeting of the California Horse Racing Board at Santa Anita Park, has been removed from the agenda and will be rescheduled for consideration at the June 19 Board meeting at Los Alamitos. The agenda for the June 19 meeting will be posted on the CHRB website (agendas) no later than June 9. ...
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From Barretts DEL MAR, Calif. (May 20, 2014) — Barretts Paddock Sale at Del Mar set for July 20 Barretts, in cooperation with the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, will conduct its third annual Paddock Sale of “Race Ready” horses in training on July 20th. As in past years, the auction will be held the first Sunday of the Del Mar meet in front of a large vibrant crowd after the final race on the card. The purpose of the “one-stop shopping” concept of the Paddock Sale is to encourage new racehorse ownership and increase the “Race Ready” horse inventory in California by promoting Del Mar’s Ship and Win Program. Five horses from the first two years became stakes winners subsequent to The Paddock Sale which equals more than 8% of all horses through the sales rings. A new record was set last year in the second Paddock Sale when the 3-year-old filly, Oscar Party, sold for $510,000. Overall, the average price rose 98% and the median price rose 150% last... ...
Read More →By DRF.com ELMONT, N.Y. (May 20, 2014) – Thirty-six years of waiting, 12 furlongs to go. California Chrome, the Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner, arrived at the final stop on his Triple Crown journey Tuesday, when a horse van carrying him and Preakness runner-up Ride On Curlin passed through the gates of Belmont Park shortly before 10:45 a.m. The van arrived following an approximately 4 1/2-hour trip from Pimlico in Baltimore. The van got stuck in a little rush-hour traffic near the George Washington Bridge before picking up a police escort from the Throgs Neck Bridge. On a glorious, sun-splashed spring morning, a gaggle of media – including representatives from most, if not all, of New York’s local television stations as well as CNN – were present when the horses arrived. California Chrome, as is his wont, was backed off the ramp before being led by Alan Sherman, the son and assistant of trainer Art Sherman, into Barn 26, where both he and Ride On Curlin will take up residence. California... ...
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ARCADIA, Calif. (May 21, 2014) — Soi Phet is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $200,000 Grade II Charles Whittingham Handicap at Santa Anita. Soi Phet is by Tizbud, out of the Siberian Summer mare Summer Jersey, was bred by ARCHA Racing, is owned by Gerald Benowitz and Sandra Powell, Paul and Mathilde Viskovich and is trained by Leonard Powell. He has five wins in 24 starts, earnings of $272,026 and is coming off a fifth in the Apr. 26 Tiznow Stakes. ...
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RUIDOSO DOWNS, N.M. (May 21, 2014) — Warren’s Venedalucy is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $50,000 First Lady Handicap for fillies and mares at Ruidoso Downs. Warrne’s Venedalucy is by Doc Gus, out of the Carson City mare State the Obvious, was bred by Benjamin Warren, is owned by Ace Racing Stable and trained by Justin Evans. She has six wins in 26 starts, earnings of $151,384 and is coming off a fifth in the Apr. 5 Czarina Stakes. ...
Read More →By Bloodhorse.com BALTIMORE, Md. (May 19, 2014) — California Chrome, who on June 7 in the Belmont Stakes (gr. I) will try to become the 12th Triple Crown winner, walked the shedrow May 19 in the Preakness stakes barn at Pimlico Race Course first with assistant trainer Alan Sherman and then with groom Raul Rodriguez. Trainer Art Sherman stopped by to say goodbye to the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) and Preakness Stakes (gr. I) winner before heading back to California for the next two weeks. “He came out of that race great, feeling good,” Alan Sherman said. “He is usually tired for a few days, but he was feeling really good. I am starting to realize the significance of it all. It has been a great ride this horse has put us on and I never fathomed we would be one race away from winning the Triple Crown.” Thirty-three horses have been eligible to win the Triple Crown entering the Belmont but just 11 have succeeded. It... ...
Read More →By DRF.com ELMONT, N.Y. (May 19, 2014) — California Chrome can wear a nasal trip in the June 7 Belmont Stakes, just as he has done for his prior six wins in three other states, Martin Panza, a senior vice president for the New York Racing Association, said Monday morning. “I can confirm the stewards have been in touch with Art Sherman and told him he can use it,” Panza said. The use of a nasal strip became a cause celebre the past 24 hours after Sherman, who trains California Chrome, was surprised to find out Sunday morning at Pimlico he might not be able to use the nasal strip in the Belmont Stakes, in which California Chrome will go for the Triple Crown. The use of a nasal strip is not specifically banned by state law in New York, nor even a house rule at the track. It is strictly up to the discretion of the track’s stewards. Two years ago, the stewards denied I’ll Have Another the use... ...
Read More →By Frank Layden, SI.com BALTIMORE, Md. (May 18, 2014) — Many years ago a journeyman jockey watched a horse race on television. It was a Saturday afternoon in June 1973, approaching the end of the jockey’s career. By then he had crisscrossed the country so many times, and played so many hands of poker in so many jocks’ rooms at so many racetracks, that the memory of where he was that day has long disappeared into the mists of time. But the memory of what he saw has not. The jockey’s name was Art Sherman and the horse was Secretariat. On that late spring afternoon, Secretariat won the Belmont Stakes by 31 lengths in what is generally regarded as the greatest performance in horse racing history. It followed the colt’s victories in the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness, and completed racing’s Triple Crown for the first time in a quarter of a century, which seemed like a long drought at the time, but now not so much. Sherman would ride a... ...
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From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (May 18, 2014)—Heavily favored at 3-5, Tommy Town Thoroughbreds homebred Let Faith Arise battled gamely through the lane to win Sunday’s Grade III, $100,000 Adoration Stakes by neck under Corey Nakatani, covering 1 1/16 miles at Santa Anita 1:43.41. A close fourth in the Grade I Apple Blossom Handicap at Oaklawn Park April 11, Let Faith Arise was a virtual gate to wire winner of the Grade I Santa Margarita Stakes at Santa Anita two starts back on March 15. Trained by Jerry Hollendorfer, the 4-year-old Kentucky-bred filly by California stallion Kafwain was all-out to collar longshot pacesetter Yahilwa in the shadow of the wire. “She did everything she was supposed to do,” said Nakatani. “We had to call an audible, because we thought we’d be sitting 1-2 early, but those other two (Yahilwa, ridden by Kent Desormeaux, and Eblouissante, ridden by Gary Stevens) went pretty quick, so we sat back off them and it worked out. She relaxed very well and she ran... ...
Read More →By DRF.com ELMONT, N.Y. (May 18, 2014) — A decision on whether dual classic winner California Chrome will be permitted to use nasal strips when he bids for the Triple Crown in the June 7 Belmont Stakes should be made by Tuesday, according to a New York Racing Association official. Martin Panza, NYRA’s senior vice president of racing operations, said he put Art Sherman, trainer of Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner California Chrome, in touch with the stewards at 3:45 p.m. Eastern, at which time Sherman formally requested permission to use nasal strips on California Chrome in the Belmont, Panza said. A decision was expected within 24 to 48 hours, Panza added. California Chrome has worn nasal strips in each of his last six starts – including victories in the Kentucky Derby and Preakness. On Sunday morning, Art Sherman, the trainer of California Chrome, was surprised to hear that he may not be permitted to use nasal strips on his horse in the Belmont. He even went so far to... ...
Read More →From Pimlico Publicity BALTIMORE, Md. (May 18, 2014) — Trainer Art Sherman widened his smile and nodded at the question of the morning Sunday after California Chrome added Saturday’s Preakness Stakes (G1) to his win in the Kentucky Derby: Have you been thinking about the Triple Crown? “I sure have,” Sherman said. “I’m thinking what the journey is, one more shot. I’m going to have a lot of fresh shooters waiting for me in New York. He’s done everything we’ve asked of him. He really doesn’t have a lot to prove. He’s been a super horse for us. He’s one of those horses that you’re going to have to outrun to beat him. Maybe they won’t be able to beat him. I’m looking forward to that race.” California Chrome will try to become the 12th Triple Crown winner – the first since Affirmed swept the series in 1978 – in the Belmont Stakes on Saturday, June 7. The colt will walk the shedrow Pimlico at 7 a.m. Monday and ship... ...
Read More →By DRF.com BALTIMORE, Md. (May 18, 2014) — California Chrome emerged from his win in the Preakness Stakes tired but otherwise fine, trainer Art Sherman said Sunday morning here at Pimlico, where California Chrome will remain for a few more days before heading to Belmont Park and a bid for a Triple Crown in the Belmont Stakes on June 7. “I’m going to let him unwind,” Sherman said outside the stakes barn. “He’ll go to Belmont on Tuesday or Wednesday.” Even though California Chrome had run his second tough race in two weeks, when he was taken out of his stall around 7 a.m. Sunday by Alan Sherman, Art’s son and assistant, he aggressively walked the shedrow. “He’s dragging Alan around there,” Sherman said, marveling. Sherman said his son would remain with California Chrome daily on the East Coast. Sherman is returning Monday to California to oversee his stable at Los Alamitos. He said he would come to New York about a week before the Belmont and said California Chrome... ...
Read More →By Bloodhorse.com BALTIMORE, Md. (May 18, 2014) — The connections of California Chrome will ask New York regulators and stewards for permission to race the winner of the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands and Preakness Stakes (both gr. I) with a nasal strip in the June 7 Belmont Stakes (gr. I). Steve Coburn and Perry Martin’s California Chrome was equipped with a Flair Nasal Strip, which is said to aid a horse’s breathing by opening the nasal passages, for his last six races, which he won. The Lucky Pulpit colt now has a shot to become the first Triple Crown winner since 1978. The issue was first raised by Daily Racing Form in light of a similar situation in 2012. New York regulators said I’ll Have Another , who also won the first two legs of the Triple Crown, couldn’t wear a nasal strip in the Belmont; it became a moot point when the colt was scratched a few days before the race. Whether or not a horse can compete... ...
Read More →PREAKNESS STAKES QUOTES Winning Trainer Art Sherman (California Chrome): “He broke great and had a perfect trip. I was so happy when I saw where he was able to set him. Right now he’s really on his toes and doing good. He’s a remarkable horse to come back in two weeks and win. I know he’s not the only horse that ever did that, but it’s tough on a horse to come back in two weeks. I appreciate everyone involved in my team. They did a hell of a job. Both my sons are here. It’s very emotional. “To me, this race was even a little tougher for me knowing that I’m coming back in a little shorter distance than I normally ever run them and the time I give them to rest between races. I was a little concerned about that, but he’s got a big heart this horse – big. “Wow. I’ll tell you it’s quite a thrill. I know we had to run harder in this race. ... ...
Read More →BALTIMORE, Md. (May 17, 2014) — California Chrome is one jewel away from becoming the first California-bred to win racing’s Triple Crown after capturing Saturday’s $1.5 million Grade I Preakness Stakes at Pimlico. As an encore to his Kentucky Derby win two weeks ago, California Chrome broke alertly, was eased outside and into the clear by jockey Victor Espinoza going into the first turn, moved toward the leaders going into the far turn, rejected a bid by Social Inclusion, pulled away into the stretch and held off late-closing Ride On Curlin for a comfortable 1 1/4 length win in 1:54.84 for the 1 3/16 miles. “This was a crazy race,” said Espinoza. “It was a little complicated early in the race. I got more tired mentally than physically. I had to use my brains too much, but it worked out perfectly. The outside horse (Social Inclusion) moved too early and there was still a long ways to go and I got a little worried.” The 1-2 favorite, California Chrome is by Lucky... ...
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By DRF.com BALTIMORE, Md. (May 17, 2014) – California Chrome took one easy lap around the Pimlico oval on a lovely Saturday morning as his connections put the finishing touches on preparations for the Preakness Stakes here later in the afternoon. The Kentucky Derby winner, in appearance and demeanor, did nothing to suggest he won’t give a spirited performance seeking to add the Triple Crown’s second leg to his already burgeoning war chest. A current of energy rippled below California Chrome’s composed comportment. The colt’s chestnut coat remains radiant. He has held good weight two weeks after winning the Derby in decisive fashion. He is neither thin nor heavy. His muscle tone is formidable. He is the picture of an exceptional athlete in full bloom. California Chrome arrived here Monday afternoon from Churchill Downs, and other than generating a flurry of speculative reports when he coughed after training Thursday morning, has had an uneventful five days here. The minor furor over the reportedly inconsequential throat blister that caused the cough has... ...
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From CHRB ARCADIA, Calif. (May 17, 2014) — The California Horse Racing Board will conduct its regular meeting beginning at 9:30 a.m. Thursday, May 22, and the Southern California Race Dates and Stabling Oversight Committee will meet at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 21, both in the Baldwin Terrace Room at Santa Anita Park. The public is encouraged to attend these meetings. An audio-only webcast of Thursday’s Board meeting can be heard through a link on the CHRB website (webcast). The agenda and supporting package of materials for these meetings are available on the website (agendas and packages). ...
Read More →By New York Times COALINGA, Calif. — There is no bluegrass here or limestone fences framing postcard-ready landscapes. A drought has drained the San Joaquin Valley of any color other than beige. There is no mistaking the smell in the air, either: It is cow manure from the feedlot of California’s largest beef producer. This is a working ranch, after all, where cows graze, almonds and pistachios grow on trees, and asparagus sprouts from the arid ground. The horses here are a sidelight, not sheikh-owned stallions that command $100,000 in the breeding shed. There is no harem of impeccably bred mares owned by the Wertheimers of the House of Chanel or any other of the sport’s boldface names. As thoroughbred racing goes, Harris Farms is more a blue-plate than blue-blood breeding operation. But this month a horse named California Chrome, who was bred on a patch of this 14,000-acre ranch, ran off with the 140th Kentucky Derby and lifted the spirits of small-time horsemen everywhere. The colt was bred by... ...
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From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (May 18, 2014) — Friday’s seventh race was an Unusual Heat Trifecta. The first three finishers–Heat Flash, Boozer and Bobby Z Man–were sired by Unusual Heat. The $1 Tri paid $89.50. Trainer Barry Abrams owned, bred and conditioned the winner; previously owned, bred and trained Boozer; and bred and trained Bobby Z Man. ...
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ARCADIA, Calif. (May 16, 2014) — Warren’s Veneda is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $100,000 Grade III Adoration Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita. Warren’s Veneda is by Affirmative, out of the Flying Continental mare More Cal Bread, was bred by owner Benjamin Warren and is trained by Craig Lewis. She has five wins in 12 starts, earnings of $315,064 and is coming off a third in the Apr. 26 Spring Fever Stakes. Also entered is Let Faith Arise, a Kentucky-bred daughter of California stallion Kafwain, bred by owners Tommy Town Thoroughbreds, with five wins in 11 starts, and earnings of $410,240. ...
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