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$250,000 Melair Stakes DOING HARD TIME AGAIN

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (Apr. 27, 2013) – Odds-on favorite Doinghardtimeagain wore down Sweet Marini in the stretch to win Saturday’s $250,000 Melair Stakes for 3-year-old fillies eligible for the Golden State Series on the Gold Rush XIV card at Hollywood Park. Doinghardtimeagain is by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Conquistador Cielo mare Silver Hawk Lady, was bred by owner Tommy Town Thoroughbreds, is trained by Jerry Hollendorfer and was ridden by Rafael Bejarano. She has four wins in eight starts, earnings of $483,770 and was coming off a win in the Mar. 30 Evening Jewel. This is her third stakes win. Doinghardtimeagain ran the 1 1/16 miles in 1:43.55 and won by 1 ¼ lengths at odds of 3-5. Sweet Marini was second and Unusual Way third in the field of seven. For Doinghardtimeagain’s pedigree, click http://www.pedigreequery.com/doinghardtimeagain ...

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$125,000 B. Thoughtful Stakes CURVY CAT

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (Apr. 27, 2013) –Curvy Cat caught pacesetter Ismene in deep stretch to win Saturday’s $125,000 B. Thoughtful Stakes for Golden State Series eligible fillies and mares at Hollywood Park, giving trainer Jerry Hollendorfer his third win and breeder/owner Tommy Town Thoroughbreds their second on the Gold Rush XIV card. Curvy Cat is by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Distorted Humor mare Curvy Girl, was bred by owner Tommy Town Thoroughbreds, is trained by Hollendorfer and was ridden by Corey Nakatani. She has seven wins in 15 starts, earnings of $241,373 and was coming off a sixth in the Mar. 17 Irish O’Brien. Curvy Cat ran the 7 ½ furlongs in 1:29.65 and won by a length at odds of 6-1. Ismene was second and Dancingtothestars was third. For Curvy Cat’s pedigree, click http://www.pedigreequery.com/curvy+cat2 ...

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$300,000 Snow Chief Stakes SURFCUP

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (Apr. 27, 2013) – Surfcup outdueled Fighting Hussar through the lane to win Saturday’s $300,000 Snow Chief Stakes for 3-year-olds eligible to the Golden State Series on the Gold Rush XIV card at Hollywood Park. Surfcup is by Unusual Heat, out of the Runaway Groom mare Omi Princess, was bred by owner Donald Dizney, is trained by Bob Baffert and was ridden by Rafael Bejarano, his third win on the card. Surfcup has three wins in six starts, earnings of $275,800 and was coming off a fourth in the Mar. 30 Echo Eddie. He ran the 1 1/8 miles in 1:50.80 and won by one-half length at odds of 5-1. Fighting Hussar finished second and even-money favorite Tiz a Minister rallied from last to finish third in the field of eight. For Surfcup’s pedigree, click http://www.pedigreequery.com/surfcup ...

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$70,000 Warrens Thoroughbreds Stakes HAIL MARY

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (Apr. 27, 2013) – Odds-on favorite Hail Mary ran off to an easy win in Saturday’s $70,000 Warrens Thoroughbreds Stakes for California-bred fillies and mares, the opener of the Gold Rush XIV card at Betfair Hollywood Park. Hail Mary is by Old Topper, out of the General Meeting mare Lady Sax, was bred by owner Nick Alexander, was trained by Mike Mitchell and ridden by Julien Leparoux. She ran the seven furlongs in 1:22.67 and won by 9 ¾ lengths at odds of 2-5. Hail Mary has two wins in four starts, earnings of $120,560 and was coming off a second in the Mar. 30 Evening Jewel. Swiss Bliss was second and Wild in the Saddle third in the field of seven. For Hail Mary’s pedigree, click http://www.pedigreequery.com/hail+mary6 ...

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$60,000 NTRA Stakes CELEBRITY STATUS

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (Apr. 27, 2013) – Celebrity Status took over at the head of the stretch and drew off to win Saturday’s $60,000 NTRA Stakes for California-bred maiden colts and geldings on the Gold Rush XIV card at Betfair Hollywood Park. Celebrity Status is by Vronsky, out of the Something Lucky mare A Lucky Happening, was bred by Old English Rancho, is owned by Johnston, Johnston & Cherry Hawk Stables, is trained by Donald Warren and was ridden by Tyler Baze. He has one win in four starts, earnings of $50,810 and was coming off a second in a Mar. 13 maiden special weight race. He is a half-brother to multiple stakes winner Allswellthatnswell. Celebrity Status ran the 6 ½ furlongs in 1:16.86 and won by five lengths at odds of 5-2. Longshot Saint Leo was second and Meydan Magic third in the field of eight. For Celebrity Status’ pedigree, click http://www.pedigreequery.com/celebrity+status3 ...

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$250,000 Melair Stakes DOINGHARDTIMEAGAIN

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (Apr. 27, 2013) – Odds-on favorite Doinghardtimeagain wore down Sweet Marini in the stretch to win Saturday’s $250,000 Melair Stakes for 3-year-old fillies eligible for the Golden State Series on the Gold Rush XIV card at Hollywood Park. Doinghardtimeagain is by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Conquistador Cielo mare Silver Hawk Lady, was bred by owner Tommy Town Thoroughbreds, is trained by Jerry Hollendorfer and was ridden by Rafael Bejarano. She has four wins in eight starts, earnings of $483,770 and was coming off a win in the Mar. 30 Evening Jewel. This is her third stakes win. Doinghardtimeagain ran the 1 1/16 miles in 1:43.55 and won by 1 ¼ lengths at odds of 3-5. Sweet Marini was second and Unusual Way third in the field of seven. For Doinghardtimeagain’s pedigree, click http://www.pedigreequery.com/doinghardtimeagain ...

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$125,000 Tiznow Stakes KATE’S EVENT

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (Apr. 27, 2013) –Kate’s Event emerged from a cavalry charge at the finish to win Saturday’s $125,000 Tiznow Stakes for Golden State Series eligibles on the Gold Rush XIV card at Hollywood Park. Kate’s Event is by Event of the Year, out of the Mane Minister mare Nordidid, was bred by owner William Ziering, is trained by Jerry Hollendorfer and was ridden by Rafael Bejarano in his stakes debut. He has six wins in 16 starts, earnings of $317,190 and was coming off a win in an Apr. 7 optional claimer. Kate’s Event ran the 7 ½ furlongs in 1:29.31 and won by a half-length at odds of 4-1. Rock Me Baby was second and Planet Sunshine was third in the field of seven. For Kate’s Event’s pedigree, click http://www.pedigreequery.com/kates+event ...

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$70,000 Grey Memo Stakes SUPER ABILITY

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (Apr. 27, 2013) – Favored Super Ability led all the way to win Saturday’s $70,000 Grey Memo Stakes for California-breds on the Gold Rush XIV card at Betfair Hollywood Park. Super Ability is by Langfuhr, out of the High Brite mare Super High, was bred by Harris Farms, is owned by Harris Farms or Iconic Thoroughbreds, was trained by Carla Gaines and ridden by Martin Garcia. He has two wins in four starts, earnings of $90,100 and was coming off an Apr. 7 maiden win. Super Ability ran the seven furlongs in 1:22.83 and won by three lengths at odds of 2-1. Raised a Secret was second and Memphis third in the field of eight. For Super Ability’s pedigree, click http://www.pedigreequery.com/super+ability. ...

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$125,000 B. Thoughtful Stakes CURVY CAT

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (Apr. 27, 2013) –Curvy Cat caught pacesetter Ismene in deep stretch to win Saturday’s $125,000 B. Thoughtful Stakes for Golden State Series eligible fillies and mares at Hollywood Park, giving trainer Jerry Hollendorfer his third win and breeder/owner Tommy Town Thoroughbreds their second on the Gold Rush XIV card. Curvy Cat is by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Distorted Humor mare Curvy Girl, was bred by owner Tommy Town Thoroughbreds, is trained by Hollendorfer and was ridden by Corey Nakatani. She has seven wins in 15 starts, earnings of $241,373 and was coming off a sixth in the Mar. 17 Irish O’Brien. Curvy Cat ran the 7 ½ furlongs in 1:29.65 and won by a length at odds of 6-1. Ismene was second and Dancingtothestars was third. For Curvy Cat’s pedigree, click http://www.pedigreequery.com/curvy+cat2 ...

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$300,000 Snow Chief Stakes SURFCUP

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (Apr. 27, 2013) – Surfcup outdueled Fighting Hussar through the lane to win Saturday’s $300,000 Snow Chief Stakes for 3-year-olds eligible to the Golden State Series on the Gold Rush XIV card at Hollywood Park. Surfcup is by Unusual Heat, out of the Runaway Groom mare Omi Princess, was bred by owner Donald Dizney, is trained by Bob Baffert and was ridden by Rafael Bejarano, his third win on the card. Surfcup has three wins in six starts, earnings of $275,800 and was coming off a fourth in the Mar. 30 Echo Eddie. He ran the 1 1/8 miles in 1:50.80 and won by one-half length at odds of 5-1. Fighting Hussar finished second and even-money favorite Tiz a Minister rallied from last to finish third in the field of eight. For Surfcup’s pedigree, click http://www.pedigreequery.com/surfcup ...

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$60,000 Alphabet Kisses Stakes WARREN’S VENEDA

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (Apr. 27, 2013) – Warren’s Veneda rallied along the rail in late stretch to win Saturday’s $60,000 Alphabet Kisses Stakes for California-bred maiden fillies and mares, the final race on the Gold Rush XIV card at Betfair Hollywood Park. Warren’s Veneda is by Affirmative, out of the Flying Continental mare More Cal Bread, was bred by owner Benjamin Warren, is trained by Craig Lewis and was ridden by Tyler Baze, who had three wins on the card. She has one win in two starts, earnings of $37,120 and was coming off a fifth in an Apr. 14 maiden special weight. Warren’s Veneda ran the 6 ½ furlongs in 1:18.52 at odds of 8-1. Lakeside Bride was second and Mia Lady third in the field of 13. For Warren’s Veneda’s pedigree, click http://www.pedigreequery.com/warrens+veneda. ...

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Gold Rush Recap

From Hollywood Park Publicity INGLEWOOD, Calif. (April 27, 2013)—The California Gold Rush, which was held for the 14th time Saturday at Betfair Hollywood Park, continues to be jockey Rafael Bejarano’s personal playground.http://betfairhollywoodpark.com/news/three-more-gold-rush-victories-for-… ...

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Diverse Field for B. Thoughtful

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (Apr. 24, 2013) – Grade I winner Teddy’s Promise, a trio of candidates bred by owner Benjamin Warren and three more out of In Excess mares are included in a diverse field for Saturday’s $125,000 B. Thoughtful Stakes for Golden State Series eligible fillies and mares at Hollywood Park. Warren’s Amber is by Broadway Moon, out of the Mud Route mare I’m a Cat’s Meow, was bred by owner Benjamin Warren and is trained by Jorge Gutierrez. She has two wins in 13 starts, earnings of $223,900 and is coming off a ninth in a Nov. 2 allowance. Sparkling Style is by Badge of Silver, out of the A.P. Indy mare Decades of Style, was bred by Todd Sheehan and Donald Lindemann, is owned by Arnold Zetcher and trained by Bob Baffert. The $40,000 Barretts purchase has three wins in 10 starts, earnings of $156,452 and is coming off a sixth in a Jan. 18 optional claimer. Teddy’s Promise is by Salt Lake, out of the Capote mare... ...

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Tiz a Minister, Omega Star in Snow Chief

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (Apr. 24, 2013) – Tiz a Minister jumps off the Kentucky Derby trail to face Echo Eddie Stakes winner Omega Star in Saturday’s $300,000 Snow Chief Stakes for 3-year-olds eligible to the Golden State Series at Hollywood Park. Alydidit is by Awesome Gambler, out of the Alydeed mare Brave Deed, was bred by Terry Lovingier, is owned by London, Winters, Templeton Horses and Lovingier and is trained by Walther Solis. He has one win in eight starts, earnings of $50,200 and is coming off a sixth in the Mar. 30 Echo Eddie. Fighting Hussar is by Rockport Harbor, out of the Regal Classic mare Lightning Pace, was bred by Thomas Bachman, is owned by B G Stable and Hector Palma and is trained by Palma. The $20,000 Barretts purchase has two wins in nine starts, earnings of $177,724 and is coming off a second in the Mar. 30 Echo Eddie. Nina’s Dragon is by Tizbud, out of the Synastry mare Just Lookn, was bred by Dave Currie, is... ...

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Tiznow Draws John Scott

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (Apr. 24, 2013) –Multiple stakes winner John Scott is the leading earner in the field for Saturday’s $125,000 Tiznow Stakes for Golden State Series eligibles at Hollywood Park. Mel’s Game is by Game Plan, out of the Malek mare Melinda Rose, was bred by owner Nick Alexander and is trained by Mike Mitchell. He has three wins in five starts, earnings of $121,070 and is coming off a three straight wins. Kate’s Event is by Event of the Year, out of the Mane Minister mare Nordidid, was bred by owner William Ziering and is trained by Jerry Hollendorfer. He has five wins in 15 starts, earnings of $245,940 and is coming off a win in an Apr. 7 optional claimer. Holladay Road is by Street Cry, out of the Great Commotion mare Blending Element, was bred by Williamson Racing, is owned by Gary and Wendy Broad and is trained by Julio Canani. He has seven wins in 19 starts, earnings of $355,252 and is making his first start... ...

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Tiz a Minister, Omega Star in Snow Chief

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (Apr. 24, 2013) – Tiz a Minister jumps off the Kentucky Derby trail to face Echo Eddie Stakes winner Omega Star in Saturday’s $300,000 Snow Chief Stakes for 3-year-olds eligible to the Golden State Series at Hollywood Park. Alydidit is by Awesome Gambler, out of the Alydeed mare Brave Deed, was bred by Terry Lovingier, is owned by London, Winters, Templeton Horses and Lovingier and is trained by Walther Solis. He has one win in eight starts, earnings of $50,200 and is coming off a sixth in the Mar. 30 Echo Eddie. Fighting Hussar is by Rockport Harbor, out of the Regal Classic mare Lightning Pace, was bred by Thomas Bachman, is owned by B G Stable and Hector Palma and is trained by Palma. The $20,000 Barretts purchase has two wins in nine starts, earnings of $177,724 and is coming off a second in the Mar. 30 Echo Eddie. Nina’s Dragon is by Tizbud, out of the Synastry mare Just Lookn, was bred by Dave Currie, is... ...

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Large Fields Abound In 14th California Gold Rush

From Betfair Hollywood Park Publicity INGLEWOOD, Calif. (April 24, 2013)—After chasing Flashback and Goldencents in his final two starts of Santa Anita’s Winter/Spring meet, Tiz a Minister will drop in class for the $300,000 Snow Chief Stakes Saturday at Betfair Hollywood Park. The 1 1/8 mile race over Cushion Track for 3-year-olds is the richest event of the 14th California Gold Rush program. The eight stakes – including a pair of $60,000 maiden races – are restricted to horses bred or sired in the state. The Gold Rush purses total over $1 million. http://betfairhollywoodpark.com/news/tiz-a-minister-omega-star-headliner… ...

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Melair an Evening Jewel Rematch

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (Apr. 24, 2013) – Winner Doinghardtimeagain will face three of her rivals from the Evening Jewel Stakes in Saturday’s $250,000 Melair Stakes for 3-year-old fillies eligible for the Golden State Series at Hollywood Park. 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. The $4,500 Barretts purchase has two wins in 10 starts, earnings of $244,534 and is coming off a fourth in the Mar. 30 Evening Jewel. Sweet Marini is by Marino Marini, out of the In Excess mare Excessing, was bred by BMWZ Stables, is owned by Kaleem Shah and is trained by Bob Baffert. She has one win in two starts, earnings of $40,660 and is coming off an eighth in the Mar. 30 Evening Jewel. Doinghardtimeagain is by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Conquistador Cielo mare Silver Hawk Lady, was bred by owner Tommy Town Thoroughbreds and is trained by... ...

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Gold Rush Entries on Wednesday

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (Apr. 23, 2013) – Entries will be taken on Wednesday for Gold Rush XIV, a $1.06 million series of races exclusively for horses bred or sired in California, to be held at Hollywood Park Saturday, April 27. The richest race on the card, the $300,000 Snow Chief Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-olds drew 18 nominees, including Omega Star and Tiz a Minister. The post popular of the four stakes races restricted to Golden State Series eligibles based on nominations was the $125,000 Tiznow Stakes, which attracted 29 nominees, including John Scott and Rousing Sermon. The fewest nominees for a Golden State Series eligible race were 15 for the $250,000 Melair Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-old fillies, which included Doinghardtimeagain and Unusual Way. The $125,000 B. Thoughtful Stakes for older fillies and mares includes Halo Dolly and Teddy’s Promise. The card also includes a pair of allowance stakes and a pair of maiden stakes, each drawing at least 26 nominations. For Gold Rush Day seating... ...

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Senate Introduces Immigration Bill

From AHC WASHINGTON, D.C. (Apr. 18, 2013) — On April 17, the “Gang of Eight” a bipartisan group of senators, including Senators Schumer (D-NY), McCain (R-AZ), Durbin (D-IL), Graham (R-SC), Menendez (D-NJ), Rubio (R-FL), Bennet (D-CO), and Flake (R-AZ), introduced the Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act of 2013. The bill would increase border security, provide a path for unauthorized immigrants to remain in the country and eventually apply for citizenship, implement an employment verification system, and improve current and create new temporary guest worker programs.  If comprehensive immigration is debated by Congress in the coming months this bill will likely be the basis for reform. Comprehensive immigration reform has been a priority of the horse industry for many years. The difficulty horse farms, horse shows, trainers and others have had recruiting American workers has forced many to rely on foreign workers and utilize both the H-2B and H-2A temporary foreign worker programs to meet their labor needs. However, the current system is not reliable and is extremely... ...

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Norcal Sale Consignor Contract Online

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 1, 2022) – The consignor’s contract for the 2022 Northern California Yearling Sale is now available online here. The hard copy of the entry form will be mailed out the first week of May, but clients can print the form from the website and send in early, if they choose to do so. The sale will be held Tuesday, Aug. 9, 2022 at the Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton. For further information contact Loretta Viega or Christy Chapman at 626-445-7800. ...

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Gold Rush Draws 203 Nominations

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (Apr. 7, 2013) – The $1.06 million Gold Rush XIV has drawn a total of 203 nominations for the eight stakes restricted to California-bred or sired horses, to be run April 27 at Betfair Hollywood Park. The richest race on the card, the $300,000 Snow Chief Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-olds drew 18 nominees, including Omega Star and Tiz a Minister. Nominations     Past Performances HERE The post popular of the four stakes races restricted to Golden State Series eligibles was the $125,000 Tiznow Stakes, which attracted 29 nominees, including John Scott and Rousing Sermon. The fewest nominees for a Golden State Series eligible race were 15 for the $250,000 Melair Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-old fillies, which included Doinghardtimeagain and Unusual Way. The $125,000 B. Thoughtful Stakes for older fillies and mares includes Halo Dolly and Teddy’s Promise. The card also includes a pair of allowance stakes and a pair of maiden stakes, each drawing at least 26 nominations. Entries for the races will be... ...

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Gold Rush Noms Due Friday

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (Mar. 31, 2013) – Nominations close Friday, April 5, for the eight stakes races on the $1.06 million Gold Rush card, to be run Apr. 27 at Betfair Hollywood Park. The card: SNOW CHIEF STAKES $300,000, Three Year Olds, Eligible to Golden State Series, One Mile & One Eighth MELAIR STAKES $250,000, Fillies, Three Years Old, Eligible to Golden State Series, One Mile & One Sixteenth B. THOUGHTFUL STAKES $125,000, Fillies & Mares, Four Year Olds & Upward, Eligible to Golden State Series, Seven & One Half Furlongs TIZNOW STAKES $125,000, Four-Year-Olds & Upward, Eligible to Golden State Series, Seven & One Half Furlongs GREY MEMO STAKES $70,000, Three-Year-Olds & Upward, Bred in California Seven Furlongs WARREN’S THOROUGHBREDS STAKES $70,000, F&M, Three-Year-Olds & Upward, Cal-Bred Seven Furlongs NTRA STAKES $60,000, Maiden Colts & Geldings, 3&Up, Cal-Bred Six & One-Half Furlongs ALPHABET KISSES STAKES $60,000, Maiden Fillies & Mares, 3&Up, Cal-Bred Six & One-Half Furlongs For Gold Rush Day Seating Reservations Contact: Betfair Hollywood Park Group Events (310) 419-1529... ...

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Doinghardtimeagain Easy Evening Jewel Winner

ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 30, 2013) – Doinghardtimeagain drew clear late to win Saturday’s $200,000 Evening Jewel Stakes for 3-year-old fillies eligible to the Golden State Series at Santa Anita. Doinghardtimeagain is by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Conquistador Cielo mare Silver Hawk Lady, was bred by owner Tommy Town Thoroughbreds and is trained by Jerry Hollendorfer. She has three wins in seven starts, earnings of $356,270 and was coming off a second in the Feb. 16 Sweet Life. Hail Mary was second and Cloudy Moon third in the field of 11. Doinghardtimeagain ran the 6 ½ furlongs in 1:16 and won by four lengths at odds of 7-2. For Doinghardtimeagain’s pedigree, click http://www.pedigreequery.com/doinghardtimeagain ...

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Omega Star in Echo Eddie Thriller

ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 30, 2013) – Omega Star outdueled a game Fighting Hussar through the stretch for a nose win in Saturday’s $200,000 Echo Eddie Stakes for 3-year-olds eligible to the Golden State Series at Santa Anita. Omega Star is by Candy Ride, out of the Fusaichi Pegasus mare Pride of Pegasus, was bred by owners Herman Sarkowsky and Marty Wygod and is trained by John Shirreffs. He has two wins in five starts, earnings of $223,250 and was coming off a seventh in the Mar. 9 San Felipe. Omega Star ran the 6 ½ furlongs in 1:17.19 at odds of 9-5 and won by a nose over Fighting Hussar, with 99-1 shot Lovmeister third. “He got in front and started to pull himself up, so I didn’t hit him, I just hand rode and he gave me everything he had,” said jockey Joe Talamo. For Omega Star’s pedigree, click http://www.pedigreequery.com/omega+star3. ...

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Evening Jewel Draws Deep Field

ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 27, 2013) – Stakes winners Tilde, Marks Mine, Qiaona and Doinghardtimeagain are among entries in Saturday’s $200,000 Evening Jewel Stakes for 3-year-old fillies eligible to the Golden State Series at Santa Anita. Past Performances Tilde is by Swiss Yodeler, out of the Cee’s Tizzy mare Self Taught, was bred by Revocable Trust of Dr. Mikel Harrington and Patricia Harrington, is owned by Mike Harrington Trustee and is trained by Mike Harington. She has four wins in eight starts, earnings of $344,810 and is coming off a ninth in the Jan. 26 California Breeders Champion Stakes. Sweet Marini is by Marino Marini, out of the In Excess mare Excessing, was bred by owner BMWZ Stables and is trained by Jorge Gutierrez. She won her lone start Nov. 4, 2012 and has earnings of$36,660. Awe Golly Molly is by Awesome Gambler, out of the All Gone mare Molly’s Gone, was bred by Terry Lovingier, is owned by Dolan, London, Winter, Lovingier and Templeton Horses and is trained by Walther Solis.... ...

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Competitive Field for Echo Eddie

ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 27, 2013) – Fighting Hussar is the leading money earner in a contentious field entered for Saturday’s $200,000 Echo Eddie Stakes for 3-year-olds eligible for the Golden State Series at Santa Anita. Past Performances Back to Bako is by Aragorn, out of the Arazi mare Escape With Me, was bred by owners Harris Farms and Donald Valpredo and is trained by Blake Heap. He has one win in seven starts, earnings of $77,440 and is coming off a fourth in a Mar. 1 allowance. Follini is by Western Fame, out of the Kennedy Road mare Jetinwith Kennedy, was bred by Applebite Farms, is owned by Branch, Glatt and Wagner and is trained by Mark Glatt. The $20,000 Barretts purchase is a maiden making his second start with earnings of $11,200. Surfcup is by Unusual Heat, out of the Runaway Groom mare Omi Princess, was bred by owner Donald Dizney and is trained by Bob Baffert. He has two wins in four starts, earnings of $98,800 and is coming... ...

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Sequestration Scheduled to Begin Friday

From NTRA WASHINGTON, D.C. (Feb. 28, 2013) — The massive federal spending cuts that face almost every U.S. government agency are set to begin Friday, March 1, 2013. These automatic across-the-board cuts, referred to as “sequestration,” will total $1.2 trillion over 10 years.  Of this total, $85 billion in military and domestic discretionary spending reductions are scheduled for the remainder of the current fiscal year that ends September 30. Sequestration is the result of attempts by Congress and the Obama administration to gain control of the growth in national debt. It has been scheduled to begin for more than a year but Congress and the President delayed the start until March 1 as part of the fiscal cliff negotiations that ended on New Year’s Day. What impact sequestration will have on the overall U.S. economy and government services/programs is unclear and it may take several months to become evident. The NTRA’s federal legislative team maintains a daily presence in Washington, D.C. to closely monitor and act on those issues that... ...

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Ain’t No Other Adds Blinkers and Rolls to Victory

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (Feb. 24, 2013)—Trainer Jerry Hollendorfer, fresh off victory in Saturday’s Grade II San Carlos Stakes, fitted veteran gelding Ain’t No Other with blinkers for the first time and the result was a three quarter length victory in Sunday’s $100,000 Sensational Star Stakes for older horses bred in California at 6 ½ furlongs down Santa Anita’s hillside turf course. The 5-year-old son of Old Topper negotiated the course in 1:11.53. “I worked him in blinkers and he worked really well,” said Hollendorfer assistant Dan Ward. “He didn’t try to lug in. He didn’t try to wait on horses, he just went on.” Off as second choice in the eight-horse field at 9-2, Ain’t No Other sat third early, four lengths behind pacesetting longshot Coach Bob and Victor Espinoza. With fractions of 21.24, 43.05 and 1:05.50, the Sensational Star set up for horses coming from behind. As the field approached the dirt crossing at the top of the lane, Bejarano split horses and made the lead in... ...

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Sensational Star Draws Profitable Field

ARCADIA, Calif. (Feb. 21, 2013) – Eight California-breds, each with earnings of more than $100,000, are entered in Sunday’s $100,000 Sensational Star Stakes for Golden State Series eligibles at Santa Anita. Stoney Fleece is by Decarchy, out of the Deputed Testamony mare Gold Fleece, was bred by Joseph Alvarez III, is owned by Gary and Cecil Barber and trained by John Sadler. He has five wins in 16 starts, earnings of $319,058 and is coming off a fifth in the Jan. 26 Crystal Water. A Toast to You is by Tribal Rule, out of the Apollo mare Whitewinesipper, was bred by Hidden Meadows Farm, is owned by Gary and Cecil Barber and is trained by Peter Miller. He has five wins in 14 starts, earnings of $258,852 and is coming off a third in a Feb. 15 optional claimer. Circa’sgoldengear is by Golden Gear, out of the Nijinsky’s Table mare Circa, was bred by Earle Malley and Sue Hubbard, is owned by Malley and Blake Heap and is trained by... ...

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NTRA Joins Coalition to Protect H-2B Visa Program

From NTRA WASHINGTON, D.C. (Feb. 7, 2013) — Comprehensive immigration reform proposals are being circulated on Capitol Hill and the future of the H-2B visa program may be impacted during the process. In the horse racing industry, trainers regularly utilize the H-2B visa program to hire stable help. The H-2B program also is utilized by employers in numerous other industries with temporary, non-agricultural positions that they are unable to fill with local workers. Examples of such industries include forestry, resort/hospitality, landscaping and seafood processing. The National Thoroughbred Racing Association, as a member of the H-2B Workforce Coalition, is working with these and other industries to preserve and protect the H-2B visa program during the comprehensive immigration reform process. Earlier this week, the H-2B Coalition held a briefing in Washington, D.C. that featured speakers from various industries and employers that use the program. The standing room-only crowd included at least 52 Congressional staff members who heard impassioned speeches about the importance of the H-2B program. The briefing was followed by a... ...

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$100,000 Valentine Dancer TIZ FLIRTATIOUS

ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 26, 2013) – Odds-on favorite Tiz Flirtatious rallied powerfully through the stretch to win Saturday’s $100,000 Valentine Dancer Stakes for California-bred fillies and mares on the Sunshine Millions card at Santa Anita. Tiz Flirtatious is by Tizbud, out of the Victory Gallop mare Masquerade Belle, was bred by owner Pamela Ziebarth, trained by Martin Jones and ridden by Rafael Bejarano. She’s never been off the board with five wins in eight starts, earnings of $334,800 and was coming off a second in the Dec. 30 Robert J. Frankel. “She’s a pretty special mare,” said Jones. “It seems whatever we ask her to do, she does it. She’s really nice.” The California Cup Distaff winner ran the mile on a good turf in 1:35.17 at odds of 4-5 and won by two lengths over Dancingtothestars, with Toomanytomatoes third in the field of seven. For Tiz Flirtatious’ pedigree, click http://www.pedigreequery.com/tiz+flirtatious.   ...

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$300,000 Cal Breeders’ Champion Filly QIAONA

ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 26, 2013) – Longshot Qiaona, who trailed by as many as 15 lengths down the backside, rallied furiously through the stretch to win Saturday’s $300,000 California Breeders’ Champion Stakes for 3-year-old fillies eligible to the Golden State Series on the Sunshine Millions card at Santa Anita. 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, trained by Ed Moger Jr. and was ridden by Garrett Gomez. The $4,500 Barretts purchase, who started her career in a $25,000 maiden claimer at Pleasanton, was coming off a maiden turf win Dec. 6. In eight career starts, she has earnings of $228,010. Qiaona ran the mile in 1:37.75 on a set-fast track and won by a neck at odds of 23-1. Unusual Way was second and pacesetter Marks Mine was third in the field of 11. For Quiona’s pedigree, click http://www.pedigreequery.com/qiaona. ...

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Crystal Water Draws John Scott

ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 23, 2013) –John Scott, whose last two finishes were a third and fourth in graded stakes, returns to California-bred company in Saturday’s $100,000 Crystal Water Stakes on the Sunshine Millions card at Santa Anita. John Scott is by Bertrando, out of the Deputy Minister mare Henlopen, was bred by Harris Farms and Scott Gross, is owned by Harris Farms and is trained by Carla Gaines. He has five wins in 11 starts, earnings of $400,304 and is coming off a third in the Jan. 5 San Pasqual. Big Bane Theory is by Artie Shiller, out of the Alysheba mare Shebane, was bred by owners Scott Gross and Mark Devereaux and is trained by Carla Gaines. He has two wins in five starts, earnings of $102,720 and is coming off a fourth in the Dec. 26 Sir Beaufort. Circle the Moon is by Cyclotron, out of the In Excess mare Mada Moon, was bred by Bruce and Gus Headley, is owned by Aase Headley and trained by Bruce... ...

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Contentious Field in Valentine’s Dancer

ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 23, 2013) – Win machine Halo Dolly, stakes performer Tiz Flirtatious and defending champ Chokecherymary are among the entries in Saturday’s contentious $100,000 Valentine’s Dancer Stakes for California-bred fillies and mares on the Sunshine Millions card at Santa Anita. Halo Dolly is by Popular, out of the Comic Strip mare Spanish Halo, was bred by Rod and Lorraine Rodriguez, is owned by Hoefflin or O’Farrell or Schneider et al and trained by Jerry Hollendorfer. She has 14 wins in 25 starts, earnings of $675,896 and is coming off a fourth in the Dec. 30 Robert J. Frankel. Tiz Flirtatious is by Tizbud, out of the Victory Gallop mare Masquerade Belle, was bred by owner Pamela Ziebarth and trained by Martin Jones. She has four wins in seven starts, earnings of $274,800 and is coming off a second in the Dec. 30 Robert J. Frankel. Defending champion Chokecherymary is by Capsized, out of the Gilded Time mare Sassy Rhythm, was bred by BnD Thoroughbreds, is owned by Steve... ...

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King Glorious Rematch in Cal Breeders

ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 23, 2013) – Five of the top six finishers in last month’s King Glorious Stakes, led by winner Weewinnin, return in Saturday’s $300,000 California Breeders’ Champion Stakes for 3-year-olds eligible to the Golden State Series on the Sunshine Millions card at Santa Anita. Weewinnin is by Comic Strip, out of the Roman Dancer mare Honoree Lady, was bred by Dr. and Mrs. William Gray, is owned by E-Racingcom or Gray or Lyons et al and is trained by Brian Koriner. He has two wins in three starts, earnings of $125,900 and is coming off a win in the Dec. 16 King Glorious. Fighting Hussar is by Rockport Harbor, out of the Regal Classic mare Lightning Pace, was bred by Thomas Bachman, is owned by BG Stable or Palma and is trained by Hector Palma. The $20,000 Barretts purchase has two wins in six starts, earnings of $126,200 and is coming off a second in the Dec. 16 King Glorious. Monument is by Cindago, out of the Beautiful... ...

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Soviet Problem Rematch in Cal Breeders Filly

ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 23, 2013) – The top four finishers in the Soviet Problem Stakes, including winner Doinghardtimeagain and leading earner Tilde, return in Saturday’s $300,000 California Breeders’ Champion Stakes for 3-year-old fillies eligible to the Golden State Series on the Sunshine Millions card at Santa Anita. Doinghardtimeagain is by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Conquistador Cielo mare Silver Hawk Lady, was bred by owner Tommy Town Thoroughbreds and is trained by Jerry Hollendorfer. She has two wins in four starts, earnings of $198,500 and is coming off a win in the Dec. 9 Soviet Problem. Tilde is by Swiss Yodeler, out of the Cee’s Tizzy mare Self Taught, was bred by Revocable Trust of Mike Harrington and Patricia Harrington, is owned by Mike Harrington Trust and is trained by Mike Harrington. She has four wins in seven starts, earnings of $344,560 and is coming off a fourth in the Dec. 9 Soviet Problem. Unusual Way is by Unusual Heat, out of the Great Above mare Way Up, was... ...

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Stars Chase Riches in Sunshine Millions

ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 23, 2013) — Fifteen California-bred stakes winners will be on display in Saturday’s Sunshine Millions at Santa Anita. The Sunshine Millions card includes four stakes exclusively for horses bred or sired in California, along with a pair of open stakes. In one of those, the Grade II Santa Monica Handicap, Cal-bred Grade I winner Teddy’s Promise and Cal-bred multiple stakes winner Sugarinthemorning are entered. Two of the Cal-bred stakes carry purses of $300,000 each and are restricted to 3-year-olds eligible to the Golden State Series – the $300,000 California Breeders’ Champion Stakes and the 300,000 California Breeders’ Champion Stakes for fillies. Among stakes winners entered in those two races are Tilde, Unusual Way, Doinghardtimeagain and Weewinnin. Also on the card are the $100,000 Valentine’s Dancer Stakes for fillies and mares and the $100,000 Crystal Water Stakes. Among stakes winners entered in those two races are Halo Dolly, Tiz Flirtatious, John Scott and Stoney Fleece. ...

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Weewinnin Tries Dirt

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 21, 2013) — Weewinnin lit up the tote board with his half-length victory in the King Glorious Stakes on Betfair Hollywood Park’s Cushion Track last Dec. 16, paying $122 to win. Boxcar numbers will not be evident again if the 3-year-old Comic Strip colt wins Saturday’s $300,000 California Breeders’ Champion Stakes at one mile, his first race on conventional dirt. He broke his maiden for $32,000 on Golden Gate’s Tapeta surface first out last June, then was fourth to Strong Wind on Del Mar’s Polytrack in the Graduation Stakes Aug. 1. “That was the first time I rode him,” jockey Jose Valdivia Jr. said of the King Glorious. “He had been training well up to the race, and in those Cal-bred races, anybody can jump up at any given time, so we’ll see how he runs on the main track.” “He worked five-eighths yesterday (1:01.40),” said Brian Koriner, who trains Weewinnin for owners Jim Atwell of Sunnyvale, Jill and William Gray of Cottonwood,... ...

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60 Nominations for Sunshine Millions

ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 19, 2013) – A total of 60 California-breds or sireds have been nominated to the four restricted stakes races to be run on the Sunshine Millions card at Santa Anita on Saturday, Jan. 26. The $300,000 California Breeders Champion Stakes for 3-year-olds has 15 nominations, including Monument, Omega Star and Weewinnin. The $300,000 California Breeders Champion Stakes for 3-year-old fillies has 13 nominations, including Unusual Way, Tilde, Mark’s Mine and Doinghardtimeagain. The $100,000 Crystal Water Stakes has 16 nominations, including John Scott, Summer Hit and Tribal Jewel. The $100,000 Valentine’s Dancer Stakes has 16 nominations, including Halo Dolly, Tiz Flirtatious and A Jealous Woman (who won Saturday’s Megahertz Stakes) and defending champion Chokecherymary. ...

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NorCal Yearling Sale Set for Aug. 13

PLEASANTON, Calif. (Nov. 21, 2012) – The 2013 Northern California Yearling Sale will be held Tuesday, August 13, at the Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton. Entries close June 3. The 2012 Northern California Yearling Sale — the ninth presented by the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association in its current format — saw a 50 percent leap in the sale average from the previous year and the highest since 2006. The 69 hips that sold in 2012 brought gross sales of $528,200, an average of $7,655 and a median price of $4,000. For more information, please contact Cookie Hackworth, California Thoroughbred Breeders Association Sales Coordinator, at cookie@ctba.com or 800-573-2822 ext. 243. Since the sale returned under the direction of the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association in 2004, it has produced stakes winners such as Bai and Bai, an earner of $724,983; Grade II winner Sierra Sunset; and Grade III winner Autism Awareness. ...

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Governor Vetoes Bills Targeting Ag

Governor Vetoes Bills Targeting Ag From Western Growers SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Oct. 1, 2012) — Western Growers applauds California Governor Jerry Brown for his responsible action in the veto of AB 2346 and AB 2676. The legislation would have exposed farmers to abusive private lawsuits and extended liability as well as criminal sanctions even when no harm occurred.  These bills were part of a political agenda, not a policy objective. ...

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Continuing Resolution Impacts New H-2B Wage Rule

From NTRA WASHINGTON, D.C. (Sept. 27, 2012) — Congress passed a six month continuing resolution (CR) last week to fund government agencies through March 2013. For the Thoroughbred industry, the CR impacts those who employ H-2B temporary foreign workers by prohibiting the Department of Labor (DOL) from enforcing a new H-2B wage rule. This new rule could significantly raise the rates employers must pay H-2B workers. The controversial H-2B wage rule originally was to begin on January 1, 2012 but the DOL was forced by Congress last December to delay this until the start of the federal government’s next fiscal year on October 1, 2012. Last week’s CR further delays implementation of the rule. Congress uses a CR when it fails to pass a formal appropriations bill before the end of the Congressional fiscal year (October 1-September 30). Congress passed no appropriations bills this year. Additionally, a federal district court judge in Florida is expected to soon provide a ruling in a case on the future of an H-2B program... ...

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AB 1313 Fails to Pass

From Platinum Advisors SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Sept. 5, 2012) — In a huge victory for Agriculture, the Assembly failed to pass AB 1313 (Allen) which would have required overtime after 8 hours for agricultural workers. AB 1313 went up for a final vote just before midnight on August 31st, the final day of the 2011-2012 Session. CTBA worked closely with agricultural interests including CFB, Western Growers and agricultural associations in efforts to kill the overtime bill. The United Farm Workers Union, sponsors of the bill, worked equally hard to pass the measure. The measure failed with a final vote of 35-33 with 12 not voting. Many thanks to CTBA members who made phone calls to targeted legislators asking them for a “no” vote or not to vote. Your efforts helped secure a tremendous victory. We would also like to thank the key legislators who really responded to the Breeders in California. They include Connie Conway and the Republican Caucus, as well as members of the Democratic Caucus for their support: Toni... ...

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NTRA Legislative Update

From NTRA WASHINGTON, D.C. (Sept. 20, 2012) — Earlier this year, it appeared that Congress would pass new legislation before the current farm bill expires on September 30th, but it now appears likely that Congress will allow the current bill to lapse. The Senate passed a new five year farm bill several weeks ago.  However, the House is far from passing the Senate version of the farm bill due to severe pressure from conservatives who have a strong dislike for the multiple spending programs found in the Senate bill.  With the House and Senate far apart, there is virtually no chance that a long-term deal can be reached on a new bill before the current bill expires. It is possible that Congress will pass yet another extension of the current farm bill, as they have done many times before, to allow more time to negotiate a longer term solution. But even that approach is now in question as adjournment looms.  Thus, in spite of increasing pressure from agricultural states and... ...

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Agricultural Disaster Assistance Bill Update

From NTRA WASHINGTON, D.C. (Aug. 30, 2012) — Earlier this month the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Agricultural Disaster Assistance Act of 2012 (H.R. 6233). This bill would provide supplemental agricultural disaster assistance for fiscal year 2012 to affected livestock and crop producers and reauthorize several related programs that expired last year. Farms that are in business to breed, raise and sell horses and are located in declared disaster areas would be eligible for these assistance programs. However, horses held exclusively for racing would not qualify. Horse breeding farms that suffered through the extreme drought conditions that plagued many parts of the country earlier this summer or those that currently are battling flood waters from Hurricane Isaac are examples of potential qualified producers in this bill. The next step in the legislative process would be for the Senate to pass this bill. With Congress in recess, it is not certain when the upper chamber may take action. Another opportunity for these programs to be reauthorized exists in the next... ...

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Willa B Awesome Leads Fleet Treat Field

DEL MAR, Calif. (July 26, 2012) – Grade I winner Willa B Awesome returns to California-bred company in Saturday’s $200,000 Fleet Treat Stakes for Golden State Series-eligible 3-year-old fillies at Del Mar. River Kiss is by Awesome Gambler, out of the Rio Verde mare River Cutie, was bred by Terry Lovingier, is owned by Beckerle, Lovingier, Winter, Zondlo and Templeton Horses and trained by Doug O’Neill. She has two wins in eight starts, earnings of $134,850 and is coming off a third in the June 23 California Wine Stakes. Starlight Magic is by Marino Marini, out of the General Meeting mare Star’s Millennium, was bred by John and Diane Fradkin, is owned by Cory Wagner and is trained by Mark Glatt. The California Cup Juvenile Fillies champ has three wins in eight starts, earnings of $212,900 and is coming off a fifth in the June 23 American Oaks. Vicki Victoria is by Swiss Yodeler, out of the Sharp Victor mare Mabel Kent, was bred by Patricia Youngman, is owned by... ...

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Summer Hit Wins Silky Sullivan

ALBANY, Calif. (June 9, 2012) – Summer Hit led all the way and won Saturday’s $100,000 Silky Sullivan Stakes for 3-year-olds eligible for the Golden State Series program 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 trained by Hollendorfer. He has four wins in six starts, earnings of $103,747 and was coming off a May 13 starter’s allowance win. Summer Hit ran the mile on turf in 1:36.40 and won by a neck over Stoney Fleece with Pepnic third. For Summer Hit’s pedigree, click http://www.pedigreequery.com/summer+hit3. ...

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Silky Sullivan Has Golden State Riches

ALBANY, Calif. (June 8, 2012) – Stoney Fleece, coming off a win in the Alcatraz, leads a field of seven in Saturday’s $100,000 Silky Sullivan Stakes for 3-year-old Golden Gate Series eligibles at Golden Gate. Stoney Fleece is by Decarchy, out of the Deputed Testamony mare Gold Fleece, was bred by Joseph Alvarez III, is owned by Gary and Cecil Barber and trained by John Sadler. He has five wins in 12 starts, earnings of $291,860 and is coming off a win in the May 12 Alcatraz. 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 trainer J. Eric Kruljac. He has two wins in four starts, earnings of $64,274 and is coming off a May 13 optional claiming win. 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 trained by Hollendorfer. He... ...

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Best Present Ever Dominates In Campanile Stakes

GoldenGateFields.com June 2, 2012-Best Present Ever recorded her third straight victory on turf Saturday when she humbled five opponents in the $100,000 Campanile Stakes at Golden Gate Fields. Ridden by Russell Baze and trained by Eric Kruljac, Best Present Ever came from just off the pace to win the one-mile grass race for California-bred 3-year-old fillies by five lengths.  Oh Molly Brannigan, who set the pace under jockey Juan Hernandez, took second by 2 1/2 lengths over Warren’s Amber. Best Present Ever broke her maiden racing “about 6 1/2 furlongs” down the hillside turf course at Santa Anita on March 31 and then came back to win a 1 1/16-mile allowance race on the turf at Hollywood Park on April 29.  She completed her turf hat trick with her dominating win in the Campanile. “What a nice filly,” said Baze of Best Present Ever.  “She’s pretty much push-button.  I watched her last two races and she was very impressive.  She sits and waits for you to ask her, and when... ...

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Campanile Draws Seven Cal-breds News

ALBANY, Calif. (May 27, 2012) – Evening Jewel Stakes winner Warren’s Amber is the high weight for entries in Saturday’s $100,000 Campanile Stakes for California-bred 3-year-old fillies at Golden Gate, part of the Golden State Series. Carolina Grande is by Sought After, out of the Grand Flotilla mare Grand Caro Lynn, was bred by Daehling Ranch, is owned by Joe Daehling and Holly Evans and trained by Evans. She has two wins in six starts, earnings of $31,958 and is coming off a May 19 starter’s allowance win. Jewel Seeker is by Sought After, out of the Red Ransom mare Red Table, was bred by Miraleste, is owned by Theresa and Edward DeNike and trained by Keith Nations. She has two wins in three starts, earnings of $20,976 and is coming off a sixth in the May 6 Golden Poppy. Mohanna Breeze is by Vronsky, out of the Expressman mare Woman At Work, was bred by James and Judith Huarte and Mr. and Mrs. Dick Probert, is owned by Judith... ...

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$60,000 NTRA Stakes VALENTINE BOY

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (Apr. 28, 2012) – Valentine Boy rallied in deep stretch to win Saturday’s $60,000 NTRA Stakes for California-bred maiden colts and geldings on the Gold Rush XIII card at Hollywood Park. Valentine Boy is by Cyclotron, out of the Cape Canaveral mare Calamity Jane, was bred by owners Todd Marshall and Andrew Molasky, trained by Mike Harrington and ridden by Chantal Southerland. He’s a half-brother to stakes winner Hi Ho Yodeler. Valentine Boy’s first win came in his third start and first since a second on July 24. He has earnings of $49,700. He ran the 6 ½ furlongs in 1:17.86 and won by a length at odds of 6-1. Sizzlin’ Joe finished fast for second and Sixty Stars was third. For Valentine Boy’s pedigree, click http://www.pedigreequery.com/valentine+boy3. ...

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$125,000 Tiznow Stakes MOBILIZED

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (Apr. 28, 2012) – In his third try in this race, Mobilized rallied from last to give jockey Rafael Bejarano five wins on the Gold Rush XIII card and take Saturday’s $125,000 Tiznow Stakes for California-breds at Betfair Hollywood Park. Mobilized is by Soul of the Matter, out of the Red Ransom mare Valleyofthebells, was bred by Robert Reseigne, is owned by Double JH Stables and Estate of Robert Reseigne and is trained by Gary Mandella. He has six wins in 22 starts, earnings of $263,830 and was coming off a Mar. 30 allowance win. He ran the 7 ½ furlongs in 1:29.47 and won by seven lengths at odds of 5-2. Italian Rules was second and Kingpin Ryno third. Mobilized finished third in the race in 2010 and 2011. He is a half-brother of stakes winner Bellsblade. For Mobilized’s pedigree, click http://www.pedigreequery.com/mobilized. ...

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$300,000 Melair Stakes WILLA B AWESOME

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (Apr. 28, 2012) – Grade I winner Willa B Awesome, hooked in a stretch-long duel with Starry Skies, got the bob on the wire to win by a nose Saturday’s $300,000 Melair Stakes for California-bred 3-year-old fillies on the Gold Rush XIII card at Betfair Hollywood Park. Willa B Awesome is by Awesome Gambler, out of the Nineeleven mare Cause I’m Tricky, was bred by Terry Lovingier, is owned by Daniels, London, Winters and Lovingier, is trained by Walther Solis and was ridden by Martin Pedroza. The $18,000 Barretts purchase, who bypassed the Kentucky Oaks for this race, has five wins in 13 starts, earnings of $593,896 and was coming off a win in the Mar. 31 Santa Anita Oaks. Willa B Awesome was the even-money favorite and ran the 1 1/8 miles in 1:53.33. Starry Skies was second and Starlight Magic third. For Willa B Awesome’s pedigree, click http://www.pedigreequery.com/willa+b+awesome. ...

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$70,000 Grey Memo Stakes GATHERATTHEALTER

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (Apr. 28, 2012) – Gatheratthealter nosed out Relentless Heat to win Saturday’s $70,000 Grey Memo Stakes for California-breds on the Gold Rush XIII card at Betfair Hollywood Park. Gatheratthealter is by Lucky Pulpit, out of the Nashwan mare Gather the Group, was bred by Mr. and Mrs. Larry Williams, is owned by Live Your Dream Racing Stable, trained by Bob Baffert and ridden by Rafael Bejarano. The half-brother of stakes winner Gn. Group Meeting ran the seven furlongs in 1:23.74 at odds of 8-1. Summer Hit was third. For Gatheratthealter’s pedigree, click http://www.pedigreequery.com/gatheratthealter. ...

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M One Rifle Takes Shot in Tiznow

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (Apr. 25, 2012) – Grade I winner M One Rifle is among the entries in Saturday’s $125,000 Tiznow Stakes for California-breds and –sireds on the Gold Rush card at Hollywood Park. Mobilized is by Soul of the Matter, out of the Red Ransom mare Valleyofthebells, was bred by Robert Reseigne, is owned by Double JH Stables and Estate of Robert Reseigne and is trained by Gary Mandella. He has five wins in 21 starts, earnings of $288,830 and is coming off a Mar. 30 allowance win. Sammy’s a Runnin’ is by Swiss Yodeler, out of the Runaway Groom mare Runaway Susie, was bred by owners Block-Forman Stables, Art Guglielmi, Samuel Wenguer and Jose Rodriguez and is trained by Art Sherman, He has three wins in 20 starts, earnings of $155,624 and is coming off a fourth in a Mar. 3 optional claimer. Spud Spivens is by Tizbud, out of the Cutlass Reality mare Oceans Reality, was bred by Harris Farms, is owned by Vincent and Audrey Marchionno and... ...

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11 Seek Riches in Snow Chief

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (Apr. 25, 2012) – Stoney Fleece is the most accomplished of 11 entered in Saturday’s $300,000 Golden State Series Snow Chief Stakes for California-bred and –sired 3-year-olds on the Gold Rush card at Hollywood Park. Corner Office is by Bertrando, out of the Deputed Testamony mare No Trouble Tweenus, was bred by owners Pam and Marty Wygod and is trained by John Sadler. He has one win in five starts, earnings of $57,828 and is coming off a fourth in an Apr. 7 allowance. Teraad is a Kentucky-bred by California stallion Bertando, out of the Mr. Prospector mare Patria, was bred by owner Nizar Anwar and is trained by Jeff Bonde. He has one win in five starts, earnings of $49,088 and is coming off a seventh in a Mar. 15 allowance. Unusual Heatwave is by Unusual Heat, out of the Candi’s Gold mare Miss Alphie, was bred by Montecito Stables, is owned by Johnson, Johnson and McWilliams and is trained by Alexis Barba. He has one win... ...

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Willa B Awesome Likely Melair Pick

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (Apr. 25, 2012) – Grade I winner Willa B Awesome is the expected heavy favorite in Saturday’s Golden State Series $300,000 Melair Stakes for California-bred and –sired 3-year-old fillies on the Gold Rush card at Hollywood Park. Willa B Awesome is by Awesome Gambler, out of the Nineeleven mare Cause I’m Tricky, was bred by Terry Lovingier, is owned by Daniels, London, Winters and Lovingier and is trained by Walther Solis. She has four wins in 12 starts, earnings of $428,896 and is coming off a win in the Mar. 31 Santa Anita Oaks. Warren’s Amber is by Broadway Moon, out of the Mud Route mare I’m a Cat’s Meow, was bred by owner Benjamin Warren and is trained by Jorge Gutierrez. She has two wins in seven starts, earnings of $155,550 and is coming off a win in the Mar. 31 Evening Jewel. Unbeaten Starry Skies is by Sky Mesa, out of the Saint Ballado mare Cosmah Star, was bred by Harris Farms, Donald Valpredo and Michael... ...

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Derby Gold Takes Echo Eddie

ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 31 2012) – Maiden Derby Gold rallied three-wide into the stretch and pulled away to a three-length win in Saturday’s $200,000 Echo Eddie Stakes for California-bred 3-year-olds at Santa Anita. Derby Gold is by Bertrando, out of the Seeking the Gold mare River Gold, was bred by Win More Farm, is owned by Arnold Zetcher and trained by Bob Baffert. This was his second start coming off a second in a Mar. 8 debut and jumped his earnings from $11,200 to $121,200. Derby Gold ran the 6 ½ furlongs in 1:14.77 and went off at 9-1. The Black was second and Real Conundrum third in the field of 11. For Derby Gold’s pedigree, click http://www.pedigreequery.com/derby+gold3. ...

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Warren’s Amber Rallies in Evening Jewel

ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 31, 2012) – Warren’s Amber rallied through the stretch to win Saturday’s $200,000 Evening Jewel Stakes for California-bred 3-year-old fillies at Santa Anita. Warren’s Amber is by Broadway Moon, out of the Mud Route mare I’m a Cat’s Meow, was bred by owner Benjamin Warren and trained by Jorge Gutierrez. She has two wins in seven starts, earnings of $155,550 and was coming off a third in a Feb. 23 starter’s allowance. Warren’s Amber ran the 6 ½ furlongs in 1:15.97 and won by three-quarters of a length at odds of 11-1. Starlight Magic was second and River Kiss third in the field of 11. For Warren’s Amber’s pedigree, click http://www.pedigreequery.com/warrens+amber. ...

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Evening Jewel Lures 13

ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 28, 2012) – Another field of 13 is entered in Saturday’s inaugural $200,000 Evening Jewel Stakes for California-bred 3-year-old fillies at Santa Anita. Heleonor Rugby is by Tribal Rule, out of the In Excess mare Eleanor Rose, was bred by Dr. John Piconi, is owned by Coudelaria Jessica and trained by A.C. Avila. She has three wins in eight starts, earnings of $208,906 and is coming off a fourth in a Mar. 8 allowance. Starry Skies is by Sky Mesa, out of the Saint Ballado mare Cosmah Star, was bred by Harris Farms, Donald Valpredo and Michael Valpredo, is owned by Harris Farms, Per Antonsen, Donald Valpredo and Michael Valpredo and is trained by Martin Jones. She won her lone start Mar. 2 and has earnings of $33,600. River Kiss is by Awesome Gambler, out of the Rio Verde mare River Cutie, was bred by Terry Lovingier, is owned by Tom Beckerle, Lovingier, John Winter, Gene Zondlo, et al and is trained by Walther Solis. She has... ...

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Lucky 13 in Echo Eddie Stakes

ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 28, 2012) – Three sons of Bertrando are among with 13 horses entered in Saturday’s inaugural $200,000 Echo Eddie Stakes for 3-year-old California-breds at Santa Anita. La Mano Nera is by Marino Marini, out of the Iz a Saros mare Iza Bay, was bred by J. Chance Kruljac and is owned by trainer Eric Kruljac. He is coming off a maiden win Nov. 19 in her second start and has earnings of $27,350. Real Conundrum is by Tale of the Cat, out of the Desert King mare La Maitresse, was bred by Scott Gross, is owned by Judi Partridge and trained by Dan Hendricks. He has one win in three starts, earningsof $40,160 and is coming off a fifth in a Feb. 17 optional claimer. G’night is by Street Theater, out of the Night Shift mare All Night Long, was bred by owner Baseline Equine and trained by Anthony Saavedra. He is coming off a Feb. 25 maiden win in her fourth start and has earnings of... ...

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Golden Benefits for Cal-bred Programs

ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 28, 2012) – Saturday’s racing card at Santa Anita is filled with California-breds, testament to the success of the Golden State Series and the Maiden Bonus Program. A total of 26 entries were taken Wednesday for two new restricted stakes – 13 each in the $200,000 Evening Jewel for 3-year-old fillies and the $200,000 Echo Eddie Stakes for 3-year-old colts and geldings. Additionally, 10 were entered in a $58,000 allowance optional claimer for Cal-breds and 14 were entered in a state-bred maiden special weight race for fillies and mares. That’s an average of 12.5 entries per race for the four Cal-bred races. ...

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Golden State Series could exceed 1,000 nominations for inaugural season

By Steve Andersen DRF.com ARCADIA, Calif.–The newly created Golden State Series for California-breds, a calendar of lucrative stakes this year, could attract more than 1,000 nominations by Wednesday’s deadline, according to California Thoroughbred Breeders Association executive director Doug Burge. http://www.drf.com/news/golden-state-series-could-exceed-1000-nomination… ...

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CTBA RELEASE – 2012 Golden State Series

ARCADIA, Calif. (Sept. 30, 2011) Through the cooperation and shared support of the California racing industry, an additional $2.325 million will be offered in restricted stakes purses in 2012 to 2-year-old and 3-year-old horses bred or sired in California. The 2012 Golden State Series encompasses new stakes and purse enhancements to existing stakes that will be jointly funded by the Thoroughbred Owners of California, the California Marketing Committee and through nominations of 2-year-olds in 2012. “This is a wonderful addition to the Cal-bred racing program and a natural extension of the very successful maiden bonus program,” said Doug Burge, executive vice president and general manager of California Thoroughbred Breeders Association. “Through the financial support once again of the entire racing industry in the state, we are able to provide a very lucrative return for those breeding and racing in California.  While this program initially boosts the opportunities for 2- and 3-year-olds and provides a quick reward to successful owners/breeders, it is our goal over time to expand the purses and... ...

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Barretts Buyers Could Enjoy Golden Bonus

POMONA, Calif. (Oct. 5, 2011) — An opportunity to take advantage of the new Golden State bonus series will occur at next week’s Barretts October Yearling Sale, where the vast majority of the yearlings can be made eligible to this program. Through the cooperation and shared support of the California racing industry, an additional $2.325 million will be offered in restricted stakes purses in 2012 to two-year-old and three-year-old horses bred or sired in California.   Six new stakes will be added, along with significant increases in the other twelve stakes which will increase the total purses to $3.6 million or an average of $200,000 per race (see attachment for details). Further information on the Golden State series can be found at https://ctba.com/ctba-release—2012-golden-state-series This auction of 253 yearlings will be held on Tuesday, October 11 starting 7:00 p.m. and continuing on Wednesday, October 12 starting at 11:00 a.m. on the grounds of Fairplex Park in Pomona, California.   The catalog can be viewed at http://www.barretts.com/Catalog/catoct2011/CATALOG.htm. Submitted photographs, and videos, of yearlings in the sale... ...

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Golden State Series a Cal-bred Windfall

ARCADIA, Calif. (Oct. 3, 2011) — Through the cooperation and shared support of the California racing industry, an additional $2.325 million will be offered in restricted stakes purses in 2012 to 2-year-old and 3-year-old horses bred or sired in California. The 2012 Golden State Series encompasses new stakes and purse enhancements to existing stakes that will be jointly funded by the Thoroughbred Owners of California, the California Marketing Committee and through nominations of 2-year-olds in 2012. “This is a wonderful addition to the Cal-bred racing program and a natural extension of the very successful maiden bonus program,” said Doug Burge, executive vice president and general manager of California Thoroughbred Breeders Association. “Through the financial support once again of the entire racing industry in the state, we are able to provide a very lucrative return for those breeding and racing in California.  While this program initially boosts the opportunities for 2- and 3-year-olds and provides a quick reward to successful owners/breeders, it is our goal over time to expand the purses... ...

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