Graded Stakes Could be Next for Pushiness

Aug 10, 2023 Posted by CTBA In News

By DRF.com DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 10, 2023) — Unbeaten in two starts, the 2-year-old California-bred filly Pushiness may have her first start in a graded stakes as soon as early September after winning her stakes debut in the CTBA Stakes at Del Mar last Sunday. Owner Mike Repole and trainer Michael McCarthy have two options for Pushiness before the current Del Mar summer season ends Sept. 10 – the $125,000 Generous Portion Stakes for statebred fillies at six furlongs on Sept. 4, or the Grade 1 Del Mar Debutante at seven furlongs on Sept. 9. The $300,000 Del Mar Debutante is the lone Grade 1 race for 2-year-old fillies in California prior to the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies, which will be run at Santa Anita on Nov. 3. “We could see where she stacks up,” McCarthy said of a potential start in the Debutante. Pushiness, a daughter of Kantharos bred by Richard Barton Enterprises, was nominated to the Del Mar Debutante in June. In the CTBA Stakes for statebred... ...

Clovisconnection in Robert Dupret Derby

By DRF.com SANTA ROSA, Calif. (Aug. 9, 2023) – Since last fall, Clovisconnection has thrived in sprints, winning three stakes at Golden Gate Fields and Emerald Downs. A gelding, Clovisconnection is not considered a one-dimensional 3-year-old, a point trainer Blaine Wright hopes to prove in Saturday’s $75,000 Robert Dupret Derby at 1 1/16 miles on turf at the Sonoma County Fair in Santa Rosa, Calif. “We think he’ll be a heckuva of a 4-year-old,” Wright said. “We think his future is on the turf.” Clovisconnection, who races for owners and breeders William and Judy Hedrick, was second in the Silky Sullivan Stakes for California-breds at a mile on turf April 30 at Golden Gate Fields in his only career start on the surface. Clovisconnection was near the front throughout, led briefly in the stretch, and lost by a half-length. Since then, Clovisconnection has won two minor stakes for 3-year-old sprinters at Emerald Downs outside of Seattle. “The reason we’re coming back down there is his first race on turf,” Wright... ...

Cashing Big Checks Wins Delaware Award

WILMINGTON, Del. (Aug. 11, 2023) – Cashing Big Checks, a stakes-winning graduate of the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association January Sale, has been recognized as the 2022 Leading 3-year-old filly by the Delaware Certified Thoroughbred Program. Cashing Big Checks is my Mr. Big, out of the Indian Charlie mare Palisadesprincess, was bred by George Krikorian, is owned by David Bernsen and trained by Lacey Gaudet. She is a full sister to multiple stakes-winning Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Ceiling Crusher. Cashing Big Checks was purchased out of the Harris Farms consignment to the CTBA January Sale for 1,500 by Troy Johnson. ...

TOBA Announces Leadership Lineup

From TOBA LEXINGTON, Ky. (Aug. 9, 2023) — The Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association announced Aug. 9 the election of David O’Farrell as chairman of its board of trustees. Also joining O’Farrell on the board to serve three-year terms as new members are Joe Appelbaum, Michael Banahan, Everett Dobson, Mandy Pope, and R. Glenn Sikura. Re-elected to three-year terms were current trustees Shannon Arvin, Jeffrey Bloom, Marette Farrell, Brant Laue, Garrett O’Rourke, and Stephen Screnci. “It’s an honor and a privilege to lead an organization that deeply cares about the economics and integrity of horse racing on behalf of owners and breeders,” O’Farrell said. O’Farrell serves as manager for his family’s Ocala Stud, the oldest active Thoroughbred farm in Florida and one of the leading stallion, breeding, and training operations in the country. Following its annual members meeting, the TOBA Board of Trustees met to elect officers for the association. Officers named for 2023-2024 are David O’Farrell, chairman; Everett Dobson, vice-chairman; Dan Metzger, president; Doug Cauthen, secretary; and Garrett O’Rourke, treasurer. The... ...

Closing Remarks Takes Yellow Ribbon Shot

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 9, 2023) – Graded winner Closing Remarks is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $250,000 Grade II Yellow Ribbon Handicap for fillies and mares at Del Mar. Closing Remarks is by Vronsky, out of the Unusual Heat mare Orange Cove, was bred by owner Harris Farms and is trained by Carla Gaines. She has four wins in 20 starts, earnings of $561,320 and is coming off a sixth in the May 29 Gamely. ...

Del Mar Friday First Post Shifts to 3:30 p.m.

From DMTC Publicity DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 7, 2023) — Del Mar has announced a change of its first post from 4 p.m. to 3:30 for this Friday, August 11. The adjustment has been put in place with consultation from the Southern California jockey colony and with approval by the California Horse Racing Board. The shift in post time will provide for better viewing conditions – due to sunlight – for Del Mar riders. The modification to first post on Friday, August 11 should allow the final race on the card to finish at approximately 7 p.m. ...

Finley Joins Jockey Club Board of Stewards

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Aug. 7, 2023) — Terry Finley has been elected to the board of stewards of The Jockey Club, filling the expired position of Vinnie Viola. Ian D. Highet, a steward of The Jockey Club, was reelected to the board. Finley has been a member of The Jockey Club since 2019. He is the president and chief executive officer of West Point Thoroughbreds. Horses campaigned by the West Point partnership include 2022 Horse of the Year Flightline, Kentucky Derby winner Always Dreaming, and grade 1 winners Awesome Gem, Flashy Bull, Macho Again, Ring Weekend, and Twilight Eclipse. Finley is chairman of the New York Race Track Chaplaincy and is on the board of directors for the Thoroughbred Charities of America and New York Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association and on the board of trustees for the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association. In addition to Finley and Highet, the board of stewards consists of Barbara Banke, Dr. Larry Bramlage, Louis A. Cella, William S. Farish Jr., Stuart S.... ...

Bus Buzz Targets ‘Win-and-In’ Green Flash

By DRF.com DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 7, 2023) — California-bred Bus Buzz’s days of racing exclusively in main track sprints for statebreds ended, at least temporarily, with his emphatic win in the Real Good Deal Stakes for 3-year-olds at seven furlongs on dirt at Del Mar last Friday. For his final start of the Del Mar summer meeting, Bus Buzz is scheduled to run in the Grade 3 Green Flash Handicap at five furlongs on turf Sept. 2. The $150,000 Green Flash Handicap will be Bus Buzz’s stakes debut against older horses. The winner receives a fees-paid berth to the Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint at Santa Anita on Nov. 4. “We’ve all got to dream, right?” trainer Steve Knapp said. :: Visit the Del Mar Handicapping Store for Past Performances, Clocker Reports, Picks, Betting Strategies, and more. In the Real Good Deal Stakes, Bus Buzz, who was 9-5, took the lead at the start and was never challenged, leading by as many as six lengths and winning by 4 1/4 lengths... ...

Longacres Mile is Next for A Man’s Man

AUBURN, Wash. (Aug. 9, 2023) – Stakes winner A Man’s Man and fellow California-bred Seattle Bold are entered in Sunday’s $150,000 Longacres Mile at Emerald Downs. A Man’s Man is by Mucho Macho Man, out of the City Zip mare Longing, was bred by Richard Barton Enterprises, is owned by Remmah Racing and trained by Jorge Rosales. He has eight wins in 21 starts, earnings of $230,978 and is coming off a sixth in a July 23 optional claimer. Seattle Bold is by Bold Chieftain, out of the Roman Ruler mare Roman Wild, was bred by Myles McMahon, is owned by Peerenboom Racing Stables and trained by Dan Markle. He has six wins in 19 starts, earnings of $194,486 and is coming off a back-to-back claiming wins. ...

Daffodil Sweet Tries Emerald Distaff Again

AUBURN, Wash. (Aug. 9, 2023) – Multiple stakes winner Daffodil Sweet and fellow California-bred Nan Elizabeth are entered in Sunday’s $50,000 Emerald Distaff Stakes for fillies and mares at Emerald Downs. Daffodil Sweet is by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Lion Heart mare Easy on My Heart, was bred by Michael Terry, is owned by One Horse Will Do Corp., and is trained by Marshall Allen. She has 10 wins in 19 starts, earnings of $200,161 and is coming off a July 30 optional claiming win. She was sixth in this race in 2021. Nan Elizabeth is by Flat Out, out of the Belong to Me mare Maryneill, was bred by Stepaside Farm and is owned by trainer Luciano Gabriel. She has five wins in 20 starts, earnings of $75,160 and is coming off three consecutive claiming wins. ...

Dads Estrella Could Star in Washington Oaks

AUBURN, Wash. (Aug. 9, 2023) – Dads Estrella is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $50,000 Washington Oaks for 3-year-old fillies at Emerald Downs. Dads Estrella is by Dads Caps, out of the Street Sense mare La Strada, was bred by Richard Barton Enterprises, is owned by Alvarez Racing Stables and trained by Sergio Alvarez. She has three wins in 11 starts, earnings of $61,615 and is coming off a fourth in the July 16 Kent Stakes. ...

Royal Halo Steps Up to Muckleshoot Derby

AUBURN, Wash. (Aug. 9, 2023) – Royal Halo is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $50,000 Muckleshoot Derby for 3-year-olds at Emerald Downs. Royal Halo is by Curlin to Mischief, out of the Good Reward mare Sunpenny, was bred by Z Thoroughbred Racing, is owned by Steve Zerda and trained by Frank Lucarelli. He has two wins in nine starts, earnings of $86,460 and is coming off a fourth in the July 16 Irish Day. ...

Pushiness

Pushiness wins $125,000 California Thoroughbred Breeders Association Stakes. ...

Pushiness Gets Her Way in CTBA Stakes

By DRF.com DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 6, 2023) – In a matter of strides, the $125,500 California Thoroughbred Breeders Association Stakes for Golden State Series-eligible 2-year-old fillies at Del Mar on Sunday was over before it really got underway. Odds-on favorite Pushiness ($3.20) took the lead a few jumps from the gate and was never truly threatened, winning her stakes debut by 1 3/4 lengths in the sprint for California-bred 2-year-old fillies. “She’s really fast,” jockey Umberto Rispoli said as he left the winner’s circle. “I was trying not to overdo it the first part. I wanted to get her running and let her come back and relax.” Pushiness set early fractions of 22 seconds for the opening quarter-mile and 45.25 for a half-mile, leading by at least a length throughout. Crazy Hot made a mild bid toward the front on the turn but could not sustain the threat. Pushiness led by three lengths with a furlong remaining and held off a threat from 5-2 Grand Slam Smile in the... ...

Carmelita’s Man

Carmelita’s Man wins $150,000 California Dreamin’ Stakes. ...

Carmelita’s Man Repeats in Calif. Dreamin’

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 5, 2023) – Defending champion Carmelita’s Man overhauled even-money favorite Kings River Knight in deep stretch for a repeat win in Saturday’s $150,000 California Dreamin’ Stakes for Golden State Series-eligibles at Del Mar. Carmelita’s Man is by Mucho Macho Man, out of the North Light mare Carmelita, was bred by Richard Barton Enterprises & Robert Traynor, is owned by Lawrence and Ann Jett and is trained by Dean Pederson. “The end result is what we were hoping for that’s for sure,” said Pederson. “I was a little worried around the turn. He was in between horses and it looked like he was backing up a little bit but once he got him outside and in the clear it was good. He’s still got it, I guess. He’s just very reliant on pace. We got a little help today and he’s still willing to do it.” Carmelita’s Man has eight wins in 27 starts, earnings of $554,670 and was coming off a third in the May 28... ...

CTBA Sale Grad Lines Up for Graduation

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 6, 2023) – California Thoroughbred Breeders Association January Sale graduate Lord Prancealot, a sharp 3 ½-length debut winner, is among entries in Friday’s $125,000 Graduation Stakes for Golden State Series-eligible 2-year-olds at Del Mar. Refocus is by Pavel, out of the Square Eddie mare Redo It, was bred by owner Reddam Racing and is trained by Doug O’Neill. He has one win in two starts, earnings of $48,600 and is coming off a third in the June 17 Fasig-Tipton Futurity. Mici’s Express is by Slew’s Tiznow, out of the Harlan’s Holiday mare Harlan Express, was bred by Eagle Ridge Racing & Rancho San Miguel, is owned by Thomas Halasz and trained by Steve Knapp. He has one win in five starts, earnings of $73,280 and is coming off a July 22 maiden win. Last Call London is by Stay Thirsty, out of the Empire Way mare Zo Lo’s Lov, was bred by Terry Lovingier, is owned by Tom London, Lovingier and Eugene Zondlo and is trained... ...

Bus Buzz

Bus Buzz wins $175,000 Real Good Deal Stakes. ...

Cal-bred Big Stretch Wins Escape Clause

WINNIPEG, Manitoba (Aug. 7, 2023) – Lone California-bred Big Stretch circled the field turning for home and ran off to a 4 1/4-length win in Monday’s $50,000 Escape Clause Stakes for fillies and mares at Assiniboia Downs. Big Stretch is by Mr. Big, out of the Curlin mare Baby Zito, was bred by George Krikorian, is owned by A2 Thoroughbreds and trained by Michael Nault. She has four wins in 30 starts, earnings of $187,847 and was coming off a second in the July 18 Canada Stakes. The 5-2 second choice in a field of five, Big Stretch ran the mile in 1:39.65. ...

Bus Buzz a Buzzsaw in Real Good Deal Stakes

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 4, 2023) — Bus Buzz shook free heading into the turn and ran off to win Friday’s $175,000 Real Good Deal Stakes for Golden State Series-eligible 3-year-olds at Del Mar. Bus Buzz is by Stay Thirsty, out of the Bring the Heat mare Lost Bus, was bred by Terry Lovingier, is owned by Lovinger, Halasz and Navarro and trained by Steve Knapp. “I told Edwin to get six, seven, eight lengths in front and if we get beat we get beat,” said Knapp. “At the quarter pole I could see that Kangaroo Court was all out trying to catch him and he just got tired trying to catch us.” Bus Buzz has three wins in five starts, earnings of $222,150 and was coming off a win in a May 28 optional claimer. He ran the seven furlongs in 1:22.97 and won by four lengths as the 9-5 second choice in a field of six. Finishing second in the heat was J. Kirk and Judy Robison’s Giver... ...

‘Chromies’ Usher California Chrome into Hall

From Bloodhorse.com SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. (Aug. 4, 2023) — Three of the most accomplished horses in recent memory were inducted Aug. 4 into the National Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame in a ceremony in Saratoga Springs, N.Y., all of them in their first year of eligibility. All Eclipse champions, Arrogate , Songbird , and California Chrome also attracted wide popular support, especially California-bred California Chrome, whose devoted followers were christened “Chromies” and who were well represented at the ceremony, eliciting appreciation from the podium by Steve Coburn, who co-bred and co-owned the 2014 Kentucky Derby (G1) and Preakness Stakes (G1) winner. “I don’t know how to express the love people gave this horse,” he said. “The ‘Chromies’ are here; they came from all over the place. Thank you, fans.” A two-time Horse of the Year, California Chrome was also voted the 2014 champion 3-year-old male and 2016 champion older horse. He retired in 2017 with earnings of nearly $14.8 million and seven grade 1 wins, including the 2016 Dubai World Cup (G1) and Pacific... ...

Los Al Commits to Backstretch Upgrade

From Los Alamitos Publicity CYPRESS, CA…. Ed Allred, owner and CEO of Los Alamitos Race Course, announced on Thursday morning that he will be investing a minimum of $500,000 and up to $1,000,000 over the next 12 months on a series of significant improvement projects to the backstretch facilities at the Orange County track with the first set of new upgrades beginning immediately. Los Alamitos Race Course management, which includes Track President Cathy Monji, Interim Racing Director Jordan Castaneda, and Track Superintendent Frank Sherren, have been conducting thorough inspections of all backstretch areas in recent weeks in order to designate and prioritize the projects. On Monday, August 7, work will start with modernizing men’s and women’s bathrooms in the backstretch. New concrete has already been poured into designated areas to help prevent standing water and avoid excess mud around the barns. The improvements are in addition to the year-round repairs conducted by the maintenance staff at Los Alamitos in the barn area, which includes any type of roofing... ...

Big Hug Wins at Century Mile

EDMONTON, Alberta (Aug. 6, 2023) – Big Hug, an Alberta-bred daughter of California stallion Mr. Big, won Saturday’s $49,000 CTHS Sales Stakes for fillies at Century Mile. Big Hug is out of the Unusual Heat mare Temeeku. She has six wins in 10 starts and earnings of $167,179. She ran the seven furlongs in 1:23.89 and won by a neck at odds of 7-5. ...

NorCal Sale Grad Fly a Fantasy in CTBA Stakes

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 3, 2023) – Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Fly a Fantasy takes on stakes winner Grand Slam Smile in Sunday’s $125,000 California Thoroughbred Breeders Association Stakes for Golden State Series-eligible 2-year-old fillies at Del Mar. Fly a Fantasy is by Smiling Tiger, out of the Desert Code mare Almost Reality, was bred by Harris Farms, is owned by Harris Farms, John Cavalli, Mark Stanton and Stephanie Wedge and is trained by Jeff Bonde. The $29,000 purchase at last year’s Northern California Yearling Sale, out of the Harris Farms consignment, won his lone start Apr. 29 with earnings of $36,600. Grand Slam Smile is by Smiling Tiger, out of the Grand Slam mare Royal Grand Slam, was bred by owners Mr. & Mrs. Larry Williams and is trained by Steven Specht. She has won both starts with earnings of $83,400 and is coming off a win in the June 17 Fasig-Tipton Debutante Stakes. Pushiness is by Kantharos, out of the Empire Maker mare Imperial Pippin, was bred... ...

Fun to Dream About Another Grade I Win

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 2, 2023) – California-bred Horse of the Year Fun to Dream takes on stablemate Adare Manor in Saturday’s $400,000 Grade I Clement L. Hirsch Stakes for fillies and mares at Del Mar. Fun to Dream is by Arrogate, out of the Maria’s Mon mare Lutess, was bred by Connie Pageler and trainer Bob Baffert and is owned by Natalie Baffert and Pageler. She has six wins in eight starts, earnings of $646,590 and is coming off a second in the Mar. 11 Grade I Beholder Mile. ...

Carmelita’s Man Dreamin’ of a Repeat

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 2, 2023) – Defending champion Carmelita’s Man is one of eight stakes winner entered in Saturday’s $150,000 California Dreamin’ Stakes for Golden State Series eligibles at Del Mar. Royal ‘n Rando is by Tamarando, out of the Grand Slam mare Royal Grand Slam, was bred by owners Mr. & Mrs. Larry Williams and is trained by Steven Specht. He has six wins in 19 starts, earnings of $202,094 and is coming off a seventh in the May 29 All American. Hacking It Up is by Nyquist, out of the Square Eddie mare Hacktivism, was bred by Reddam Racing, is owned by Qatar Racing and trained by George Papaprodromou. He has three wins in nine starts, earnings of $161,080 and is coming off a seventh in the May 28 Snow Chief Stakes, presented by City National Bank. None Above the Law is by Karakontie, out of the Northern Afleet mare Legally Blanca, was bred by owners J. Kirk and Judy Robison and is trained by Peter Miller.... ...

NorCal Sale Grad Seeks Another Stake

SANTA ROSA, Calif. (Aug. 2, 2023) – Northern California Yearling Sales graduate Chancery Way and fellow California-bred Tam’s Little Angel are among four California-breds entered in Saturday’s $75,000 Luther Burbank Stakes for fillies and mares at the Sonoma County Fair. Chancery Way is by Mr. Big, out of the War Chant mare This Means War, was bred by Harris Farms & John Nicoletti, is owned by Andy Smolich & Rob Smolich and is trained by Jamey Thomas. The $6,500 purchase at the Northern California Yearling Sale, consigned by Harris Farms, has five wins in nine starts, earnings of $195,770 and is coming off a win in the July 22 Governor’s Cup. Tam’s Little Angel is by Tamarando, out of the Lucky Pulpit mare Angel Diane, was bred by owners Mr. & Mrs. Larry Williams and is trained by Steven Specht. She has four wins in 20 starts, earnings of $201,908 and is coming off a seventh in the June 24 She’s a Tiger. Councilwoman Judy is by Roi Charmant, out... ...

Bourbon Tiger Enters Lassie Stakes

AUBURN, Wash. (Aug. 2, 2023) – Bourbon Tiger is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $50,000 W.T.B.O.A. Lassie Stakes for 2-year-old fillies at Emerald Downs. Bourbon Tiger is by Smiling Tiger, out of the Sky Mesa mare Spring Again, was bred by PT Syndicate # 1, is owned by Dan Warden & Double R Racing and is trained by Blaine Wright. She has one win in two starts, earnings of $19,920 and is coming off a third in the July 9 Angie C. Stakes. ...

Santa Rosa Racing Opens Thursday

By DRF.com SANTA ROSA, Calif. (Aug. 2, 2023) — The Sonoma County Fair in Santa Rosa, Calif., begins a two-week race meeting on Thursday, the only venue of the five racing fairs in Northern California with a turf course. The course will be in action extensively through the seven-day meeting, which runs from Thursday through Sunday this week and from Aug. 11-13. There are seven-race programs on Thursday and Friday, with three turf races on Thursday and four on Friday. There are two $75,000 stakes at 1 1/16 miles on turf during the brief meeting – the Luther Burbank Stakes for fillies and mares on Saturday, and the Robert Dupret Derby for 3-year-olds on Aug. 12. This is the first race meeting with any turf racing in Northern California since the conclusion of the Golden Gate winter-spring meeting on June 11. The Alameda County Fair in Pleasanton and Cal-Expo in Sacramento held fair meetings in June and July, but race only on dirt. The Humboldt County Fair in Ferndale and the... ...

One in Vermillion Seeks West Virginia Payday

NEW CUMBERLAND, W. Va. (Aug. 1, 2023) – Multiple stakes winner One in Vermillion and fellow California-breds My Man Biggie and Knockout Guy are entered in Sunday’s $500,000 Grade III West Virginia Derby for 3-year-olds at Mountaineer Casino and Racetrack. One in Vermillion is by Army Mule, out of the Any Given Saturday mare Given Star, was bred by Richard Barton Enterprises, is owned by Jonathan Kalman and trained by Esteban Martinez. He has five wins in 10 starts, earnings of $328,840 and is coming off a second in the July 8 Iowa Derby. My Man Biggie is by Mr. Big, out of the Yankee Gentleman mare Twin Spirit, was bred by George Krikorian and is owned by Shannon Simpson. He has two wins in 17 starts, earnings of $51,357 and is coming off a third in a July 29 allowance. Knockout Guy is an also-eligible by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Distorted Humor mare Knockout Bertie, was bred by Stormy Hull & Guy Hull, is owned by Bradford... ...

Magic Tiger Entered in Manitoba Mile

WINNIPEG, Manitoba (Aug. 3, 2023) – Stakes winner Magic Tiger is the lone California-bred entered in Monday’s $50,000 Harvey Warner Manitoba Mile Stakes at Assiniboia Downs. Magic Tiger is by Smiling Tiger, out of the Lucky Pulpit mare Funny Gal, was bred by Robert Heinz and Michelle Machado, is owned by Wind Dancer Stable and Bill Meikle and trained by Wendy Anderson. He has 10 wins in 27 starts, earnings of $130,729 and is coming off a win in the July 19 R.J. Speers Memorial. ...

Big Stretch Seeks an Escape Clause

WINNIPEG, Manitoba (Aug. 3, 2023) – Big Stretch is the lone California-bred entered in Monday’s $50,000 Escape Clause Stakes for fillies and mares at Assiniboia Downs. Big Stretch is by Mr. Big, out of the Curlin mare Baby Zito, was bred by George Krikorian, is owned by A2 Thoroughbreds and trained by Michael Nault. She has three wins in 29 starts, earnings of $150,449 and is coming off a second in the July 18 Canada Stakes. ...

Om’s First Winner a NorCal Sale Graduate

By Bloodhorse.com SACRAMENTO, Calif. (July 30, 2023) — Om, who twice finished second in the Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint (G1T)—in 2016 and 2019, earned his first winner July 30 when Zen State won his maiden at Cal-Expo Race Track. The 2-year-old gelding out of the Tiznow mare Tizn’t Caught won his five-furlong debut by two lengths in :59.09. The win on a fast track earned Zen State $7,800. Zen State was bred in California by Harris Farms and is owned by CYBT and Michael Nentwig. He was sold at the 2022 California Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association Sales Northern California Yearling Sale for $32,000 by Peter Miller out of the Harris Farms consignment. Among the sire Om’s top victories are the Del Mar Derby (G2T), Twilight Derby (G2T), and the Mile Stakes (G2T). He nearly achieved glory in his first Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint appearance, falling short by a nose to Obviously (IRE) in 2016. In addition to 2019, Om also appeared in the 2017 Breeders’ Cup, finishing eighth in the Breeders’ Cup Mile... ...

Seven Cal-breds in Friday’s Real Good Deal

By DRF.com DEL MAR, Calif. (July 30, 2023) – The $151,000 Echo Eddie Stakes at Santa Anita in April produced one of the most thrilling finishes of the early spring when Kangaroo Court edged Bus Buzz by a head after the pair fought through the stretch. Since then, their seasons have gone in different directions, but Bus Buzz and Kangaroo Court figure to be the prominent runners in Friday’s $175,000 Real Good Deal Stakes for statebred 3-year-olds at seven furlongs at Del Mar. Kangaroo Court, bred by Richard Barton Enterprises and owned by George Sharp, finished 11th of 13 as the 4-1 favorite in the Grade 2 Pat Day Mile at Churchill Downs on May 6. Kangaroo Court disputed the early pace from an inside post, but faded tamely on the turn under jockey John Velazquez. “He never took Johnny along,” trainer Tim Yakteen said. “Of the horses I had back there, he was the one that took to the surface. He was the one that didn’t show up.” “He was... ...

The Chosen Vron Targets Breeders’ Cup Sprint

From DMTC Publicity DEL MAR, Calif. (July 30, 2023) — Trainer Eric Kruljac indicated that California-bred The Chosen Vron, winner of Saturday’s $400,000 Grade I Bing Crosby Stakes, will be supplemented to the $2 million Breeders’ Cup Sprint. “He’s perfect this morning,” Kruljac said of his horse. “He’s a survivor. He had a lot left at the wire. He could have gone another quarter I think. Watching the replays he looked the strongest. I think he could be a miler.” In addition to a bit of celebrating last night, Kruljac also had some serious discussions with partners about The Chosen Vron’s future and whether he would go in the Breeders’ Cup. The Bing Crosby was a ‘Win & You’re In’ for the $2 million Breeders’ Cup Sprint which means a free entry into the race for the winner. But the horse has to be Breeders’ Cup nominated and The Chosen Vron is not. So the owners will have to pay a $100,000 supplement to get him in. Kruljac is one... ...

Sir Prancealot’s First No. American-bred Winner

From Rancho San Miguel Press Release DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 1, 2023)—Lord Prancealot, a 2-year-old colt by the prominent international stallion Sir Prancealot (Ire), etched a spot in history on July 29 as the first North American-bred winner for his sire with a dominant debut in a 10-horse maiden special weight race at Del Mar. Guided by Racing Hall of Fame jockey Kent Desormeaux, the youngster powered to a front-running, 3 1/2-length victory in :58.62 for the five-furlong dirt test, emulating his sire as a winner at first asking. Lord Prancealot, a graduate of the CTBA January Sale from the Checkmate Thoroughbreds consignment, was bred in California by Jeff Ganje, who campaigns the colt in partnership with Edward “Rusty” Brown. The Jeff Bonde trainee, who is the third winner from as many starters for the stakes-winning Country Reel mare Disko Dasko (Fr), is being pointed to the $125,000 I’m Smokin Stakes for state-breds on September 8 as his follow-up race. He hails from the first North American-conceived foal crop of... ...

The Chosen Vron

The Chosen Vron wins $400,000 Grade I Bing Crosby. ...

Millionaire The Chosen Vron Wins Bing Crosby

DEL MAR, Calif. (July 29, 2023) – California-bred champion The Chosen Vron emerged from a wall of contenders turning for home to hold off Anarchist and favorite Dr. Schivel and win Saturday’s $400,000 Grade I Bing Crosby Stakes, his eighth consecutive victory making him a millionaire earner. The Bing Crosby is a “Win and You’re In” qualifier for the $2 million Qatar Cup Breeders’ Cup Sprint at Santa Anita Nov. 4. The Chosen Vron will need to be supplemented to the Breeders’ Cup, but will not need to pay entry fees. The Chosen Vron is by Vronsky, out of the Tiz Wonderful mare Tiz Molly, was bred by Tiz Molly Partners and is owned by Sondereker Racing, trainer J. Eric Kruljac, Robert Fetkin and Richard Thornburgh. He has 13 wins in 17 starts and earnings of $1,032,678. “I wanted to see what he could do against the big boys,” said Thornburgh. “He proved what kind of horse he really is. We’re so proud of him. Santa Anita is his favorite... ...

1/ST Racing Announces Consolidation Plan

From The Stronach Group ARCADIA, Calif. (July 28, 2023) – The Stronach Group’s 1/ST RACING today announced a plan to help consolidate racing operations in Southern California, invigorate an aging business model that has plagued California racing for decades and build on the state’s recent reforms that have vastly improved safety. “We are confident that this comprehensive package of important measures will not only bolster the racing, training, owner and fan experience at Santa Anita Park, “The Great Race Place”, but also support Northern California stakeholders through a challenging transition period, and lead the way with state and industrywide changes that will result in a healthier, competitive and sustainable future for Thoroughbred racing in Southern California,” said Belinda Stronach, Chairwoman, Chief Executive Officer and President, The Stronach Group and 1/ST. Among the steps and financial commitments announced today: Over $1 million to support the relocation of horses, trainers, jockeys, backstretch employees and caregivers from Golden Gate Fields to Santa Anita Park as part of the consolidation of racing in Southern California, and... ...

Big Pond

Big Pond wins $175,000 Fleet Treat Stakes. ...

TOC Ownership Panel at Ferndale Aug. 19

From TOC FERNDALE, Calif. (July 28, 2023) — The Thoroughbred Owners of California will hold a panel discussion titled “Essentials of Thoroughbred Ownership” at the Ferndale Fairgrounds on Saturday, Aug. 19, at 12:30 p.m. After the panel, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a Q&A. Light snacks & beverages will be provided. Topics: Ownership Experience Acquiring Thoroughbreds Race Day Insights Horse Conformation Tips Q&A Prospective and existing owners welcome, TOC membership encouraged but not required. Parking and admission free with a CHRB license. If you have any questions, please contact Wayne Atwell at watwell@toconline.com. ...

Big Pond Upsets Ceiling Crusher

From DMTC Publicity DEL MAR, Calif. (July 27, 2023) — George Krikorian’s homebred Big Pond fired through the lane Thursday at Del Mar and came away a one-length winner of the 38th edition of the Fleet Treat Stakes for 3-year-old Cal-bred fillies. The daughter of Mr. Big ran seven furlongs in 1:23.37 under Ramon Vazquez to pick up a first prize of $99,750 from the gross purse of $175,000. It was her second win in only her second start and increased her earnings to $136,350. Finishing second in the dash was Jaime Renella’s Chismosa, who had a length and a quarter on Cady, Kasparoff or Leatherman, et al’s Ceiling Crusher, who went off as the stout 3-10 favorite but missed the break. Big Pond paid $9.80 to win and $5.80 to place. Second-place finisher Chismosa paid $5.20 to place. All three of the runners paid $2.10 to show. “I liked the way the race set up for us.,” said winning trainer Tim Yakteen. “We had a good draw. She has... ...

The Chosen Vron Risks Seven-Race Streak

By Bloodhorse.com DEL MAR, Calif. (July 26, 2023) — The Chosen Vron may be exiting California-bred stakes for the July 29 $400,000 Bing Crosby Stakes (G1) at Del Mar, but he is riding a seven-race win streak that extends almost a year. The 5-year-old gelding is both fast and consistent. After The Chosen Vron won his seventh consecutive Cal-bred stakes in the May 28 Thor’s Echo Stakes at Santa Anita Park, trainer, co-owner, and co-breeder Eric Kruljac was asked whether graded company might be next. “I think running him at Del Mar, if I have six to eight weeks between races, we’ve got to try him one time,” Kruljac said. The Chosen Vron won back-to-back graded races in 2021, defeating Laurel River in the Lazaro Barrera Stakes (G3) and Defunded in the Affirmed Stakes (G3). Bob Baffert trained Laurel River and Defunded, and the latter heads the 1 1/16-mile San Diego Handicap (G2) on the same card as the six-furlong Crosby. Since then, Kruljac has frequently given The Chosen Vron... ...

Slow Down Andy, Brickyard Ride in San Diego

DEL MAR, Calif. (July 26, 2023) – Slow Down Andy and Brickyard Ride, multiple graded-stakes winning California-breds, are entered in Saturday’s $300,000 Grade II San Diego Handicap at Del Mar. Slow Down Andy is by Nyquist, out of the Square Eddie mare Edwina E, was bred by owner Reddam Racing and is trained by Doug O’Neill. He has four wins in 11 starts, earnings of $916,600 and is coming off a sixth in the June 10 Hill ‘N’ Dale Metropolitan. Brickyard Ride is by Clubhouse Ride, out of the Southern Image mare Brickyard Helen, was bred by owner Alfred Pais and is trained by Craig Lewis. He has 13 wins in 26 starts, earnings of $828,977 and is coming off a third in the May 28 Thor’s Echo. ...

Noms Close Thursday for Golden State Stakes

DEL MAR, Calif. (July 26, 2023) – Nominations for a trio of Golden State Series stakes at Del Mar close on Thursday, July 26. Those stakes are: The $175,000 Real Good Deal Stakes for 3-year-olds, at seven furlongs, to be run Friday, Aug. 4; The $150,000 California Dreamin’ Stakes for 3-year-olds & up, at 1 1/16 miles on the turf, to be run Saturday, Aug. 5; The $125,000 CTBA Stakes for 2-year-old fillies, at 5 ½ furlongs, to be run Sunday, Aug. 6. Also closing on Thursday are nominations for the open $400,000 Grade I Clement Hirsch for fillies and mares, at 1 1/16 miles, to be run Saturday, Aug. 5, and the $150,000 Grade III La Jolla Handicap for 3-year-olds, at 1 1/16 miles on turf, to be run Sunday, Aug. 6. To nominate, contact Racing Secretary David Jerkins at 858-755-1141 x 3815. ...

Cal-bred Ship Cadet Enters Tyro Stakes

OCEANPORT, N.J. (July 28, 2023) – Ship Cadet is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $100,000 Tyro Stakes for 2-year-olds at Monmouth Park. Ship Cadet is by Midshipman, out of the Harbor the Gold mare Bella Mia, was bred by Mr. & Mrs. William Griffin, is owned by Paradise Farms Corp., David Staudacher, Kevin Haynes and John Huber and is trained by Michael Maker. He has one win in two starts, earnings of $79,500 and is coming off a second in the June 11 Tremont Stakes. ...

Bill Strauss, Bret Jones Join Del Mar Board

From DMTC Publicity DEL MAR, Calif. (July 25, 2023) — Del Mar Thoroughbred Club has added two new members to its Board of Directors, it has been announced. They are Bill Strauss, a business executive and horse owner who calls Del Mar home, and Bret Jones, the head of Airdrie Stud, a major 2,500-acre breeding operation in Midway, Ky. The pair are the first additions to the Del Mar board since three new members were brought on board in 2018. The current board consists of nine members headed by chairman David Batchelder. The two additions raised that number to 11 when they were voted in at a board meeting at Del Mar on Saturday, July 22. “We’ve made ourselves better and stronger with the addition of these two fine gentlemen,” said board member and Del Mar CEO Joe Harper. “When you can pick up a pair of individuals who love racing and have rich histories in the game like they do, it was easy to get a unanimous vote to... ...

Sassy Nature in Daisycutter Stakes

DEL MAR, Calif. (July 23, 2023) – Stakes-winning California-bred Sassy Nature is entered in Friday’s $100,000 Daisycutter Stakes for fillies and mares at Del Mar. Sassy Nature is by Straight Fire, out of the After Market mare Renee’s Queen, was bred by Straight Fire, LLC, is owned by C T R Stables and trained by Luis Mendez. She has three wins in eight starts, earnings of $173,990 and is coming off a second in the June 11 Dream of Summer. ...

TOC Member Events Scheduled for Del Mar

From TOC DEL MAR, Calif. (July 23, 2023) – Thoroughbred Owners of California (TOC) invites all members to the Southern California Annual Meeting, to be held in the Veranda Café at Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, Saturday, Aug. 12, at 8:30 a.m. The general business meeting will allow directors an opportunity to bring the membership up to date on important issues and will include a question-and-answer session. Award presentations will also be made to the winners of the Chairman’s Award, annual Owner Awards, and a complimentary buffet breakfast will be served. On Sunday, Aug. 13, TOC and Del Mar Thoroughbred Club invite licensed owners to join us for an Owner Appreciation reception from 3:30-6:30 p.m. Enjoy an afternoon with fellow owners, music, and food at the Plaza de Mexico Fountain (stretch run side of the grandstand) at Del Mar Racetrack. We welcome you to bring one guest. ...

Before Cotillion, Ceiling Crusher in Fleet Treat

By DRF.com DEL MAR, Calif. (July 23, 2023) — Before she ships east later this summer for a million-dollar Grade 1, the undefeated Ceiling Crusher, a graduate of the Northern California Yearling Sale, gets another chance to run up the score Thursday at Del Mar. Romping winner of two California-bred stakes, by a combined margin of more than 32 lengths, Ceiling Crusher looks odds-on in the $175,000 Fleet Treat Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-old fillies. After that, deeper water. “We’re optimistic Thursday is going to go well and she’s going to come out of in good shape,” trainer Doug O’Neill said. “And then the Cotillion, that’s our big swing.” The Grade 1 Cotillion on Sept. 23 at Parx Racing might seem ambitious for a Cal-bred who has never faced open company. But it so happens that Ceiling Crusher is the fastest filly in the West. Her 94 sprint Beyer Speed Figure two back, and 92 route fig last out, are the highest this season by a 3-year-old filly... ...

Warren’s Candy Girl Gets Osunitas Candy

Fron Del Mar Publicity DEL MAR, Calif. (July 22, 2023) – The Del Mar turf course has defined the career of California-bred Warrens Candy Girl, the upset winner of Saturday’s $134,500 Osunitas Stakes for fillies and mares. Warrens Candy Girl won for the fifth time in her 12th start on the course in the Osunitas at a mile, closing from 10th in a field of 14 to win by a length over 6-1 Awake at Midnyte. Owned by breeders Ben and Sally Warren, Warrens Candy Girl may be switching surfaces for her next start. Trainer Craig Lewis said Warrens Candy Girl will be considered for the Grade 1 Clement Hirsch Stakes at 1 1/16 miles on dirt on Aug. 5. The $150,000 Solana Beach Stakes for California-bred fillies and mares at 1 1/16 miles on turf on Aug. 20 is another option. Warrens Candy Girl won the 2022 Solana Beach Stakes. In the Osunitas, jockey Ramon Vazquez urged Warrens Candy Girl into contention with a wide rally on the turn. Warren’s... ...

Slew’s Tiz Whiz Repeats in Governor’s Stakes

From Emerald Downs Publicity AUBURN, Wash. (July 23, 2023) – Using an incredible turn of foot, Slew’s Tiz Whiz, a Washington-bred son of California stallion Slew’s Tiznow, surged past Bridleuptothebar in deep stretch and scored a 1 ¼-length victory in Sunday’s $50,000 Governor’s Stakes for 3-year-olds and up at Emerald Downs. With Jose Zunino riding at 120 lbs., Slew’s Tiz Whiz covered 6 ½ furlongs in 1:14.09 and paid $5.60 as the public betting choice in a field of 10. Tom Wenzel, accomplishing a sweep of Sunday’s stakes, is the winning trainer for Slew’s Crew Racing, composed of Roy and Tammy Brewer, Terry and Mary Lou Griffin, Jodee Snyder, along with Wenzel and wife Melissa. With the victory, Slew’s Tiz Whiz joins Trooper Seven (1980-81) and Wasserman (2007-08) as two-time winners of the venerable Governor’s, and the 5-year-old appears poised to defend his Longacres Mile title in the Northwest’s most prestigious race on Sunday, August 13. Bridleuptothebar, the 5 to 2 second choice ridden by Isaias Enriquez with co-high weight... ...

NorCal Sale Grad Wins Governor’s Cup

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (July 22, 2023) – Northern California Yearling Sales graduate Chancery Way scored a 2 3/4-length win in Saturday’s $75,000 Governor’s Cup for fillies and mares at Cal-Expo. Chancery Way is by Mr. Big, out of the War Chant mare This Means War, was bred by Harris Farms & John Nicoletti, is owned by Andy Smolich and Rob Smolich and is trained by Jamey Thomas. The $6,500 purchase at the Northern California Yearling Sale has five wins in nine starts, earnings of $191,995 and was coming off a third in the June 11 Dream of Summer. Chancery Way ran the six furlongs in 1:09.46 and was the 5-2 favorite in a field of six. ...

Warren’s Candy Girl

Warren’s Candy Girl wins $100,000 Osunitas Stakes. ...

Mi Vecino Wins Handicap in Mexico City

MEXICO CITY, Mex. (July 25, 2023) – With a furious rally through the stretch, Mi Vecino, a Kentucky-bred son of California stallion Jack Milton, won Saturday’s Grade I LXXVII Handicap Presidencial by a neck at Hipodromo de las Americas. Mi Vecino, out of the Mineshaft mare Best of Times, is a former Horse of the Year in Mexico, Champion Older Horse and Champion 2-year-old colt. He ran the 1 1/16 miles in 1:45.40. ...

CARF Planning Revamped NorCal Race Circuit

From DRF SACRAMENTO, Calif. (July 19, 2023) — A revamped Northern California racing calendar will be consolidated to Cal-Expo in Sacramento as soon as late December following the scheduled closure of Golden Gate Fields on Dec. 10, racing officials said earlier this week. The Stronach Group, parent company of Golden Gate Fields and Santa Anita in Southern California, shocked the state’s racing community with an announcement on Sunday that racing will cease at Golden Gate Fields in Albany, Calif., later this year. The Stronach Group cited a desire to consolidate racing to Santa Anita, with the hope that Northern California-based owners and trainers will move their runners to Santa Anita and allow Santa Anita to expand its racing schedule from three days per week in recent years to four. But few Northern California-based stables, if any, have the depth to be competitive on a year-round basis in Southern California. Instead, racing officials in Northern California are developing a calendar for racing primarily at Cal-Expo with stops on the fair circuit... ...

Magic Tiger Captures R.J. Speers Memorial

WINNIPEG, Alberta (July 20, 2023) – Magic Tiger and Tiger Dad, California-bred sons of Smiling Tiger, finished 1-2 in Wednesday’s $50,000 R.J. Speers Memorial Stakes at Assiniboia Downs. Magic Tiger, out of the Lucky Pulpit mare Funny Gal, was bred by Robert Heinz & Michelle Machado, is owned by Wind Dancer Stable & Bill Meikle and is trained by Wendy Anderson. He has 10 wins in 27 starts and earnings of $130,729. Magic Tiger ran the 7 ½ furlongs in 1:32.01 and won by one length at odds of 8-5. ...

I Recall Repeats in Vivacious at Belterra

CINCINNATI, Ohio (July 22, 2023) – I Recall, an Ohio-bred daughter of California stallion Misremembered, won Saturday’s $75,000 Vivacious Stakes for fillies and mares at Belterra Park. I Recall, out of the With Distinction mare Real Distinctive, ran the 1 1/16 miles in 1:45.95 and won by 3 1/4 lengths as the 2-5 favorite in a field of nine. She won this race last year. ...

Warren’s Candy Girl Entered in Osunitas

DEL MAR, Calif. (July 19, 2023) – Stakes winner Warren’s Candy Girl is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Osunitas Stakes for fillies and mares at Del Mar. Warren’s Candy Girl is by Clubhouse Ride, out of the Affirmative mare Warren’s Jitterbug, was bred by owners Ben and Sally Warren and is trained by Craig Lewis. She has five wins in 23 starts, earnings of $421,360 and is coming off a fifth in the May 28 Fran’s Valentine. ...

Chancery Way, Sadie Bluegrass in Governor’s Cup

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (July 19, 2023) – Northern California Yearling Sales graduate Chancery Way and fellow stakes winner Sadie Bluegrass are among the California-breds entered in Sunday’s $75,000 Governor’s Cup for fillies and mares at Cal-Expo. Chancery Way is by Mr. Big, out of the War Chant mare This Means War, was bred by Harris Farms & John Nicoletti, is owned by Andy Smolich and Rob Smolich and is trained by Jamey Thomas. The $6,500 purchase at the Northern California Yearling Sale has four wins in eight starts, earnings of $150,770 and is coming off a third in the June 11 Dream of Summer. Sadie Bluegrass is by Bluegrass Cat, out of the Grazen mare Sadie Clare, was bred by Nick Alexander, is owned by Madden Racing, Hon Cheung Kum and Hsui Mei Tsai and trained by Ruby Thomas. She has 14 wins in 24 starts, earnings of $346,080 and is coming off a win in the June 11 Dream of Summer. Miss Union is by Unionize, out of the Perfect... ...

Fowler Blue Enters Monmouth Cup

OCEANPORT, N.J. (July 19, 2023) – Fowler Blue, fresh off a record-setting performance at Ellis Park, is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $400,000 Grade III Monmouth Cup Stakes at Monmouth Park. Fowler Blue is by Curlin to Mischief, out of the Unusual Heat mare Roses for Joni, was bred by William Branch & Arnold Hill, is owned by Branch and trained by Doug O’Neill. He has three wins in 15 starts, earnings of $159,249 and is coming off a win in an allowance that set a track record of 2:15.70 for 1 3/8 miles on a muddy dirt track. ...

Bridleuptothebar Seeks Consecutive Stakes

AUBURN, Wash. (July 19, 2023) – Stakes winner Bridleuptothebar and fellow California-breds Polacco, Smiling Goodbye and A Man’s Man are entered in Sunday’s $50,000 Governor’s Stakes at Emerald Downs. Bridleuptothebar is by Fullbridled, out of the Thisnearlywasmine mare Nearlycocktailtime, was bred by Mark Rydman & Holly Rydman, is owned by Holly Rydman and is trained by Niccolo Troiani. He has five wins in nine starts, earnings of $91,189 and is coming off a win in the June 25 Budweiser Stakes. Polacco is by Bluegrass Cat, out of the More Than Ready mare Penny N Mitzi, was bred by Michael Jawl, is owned by Carter James and trainer Jillian Soranno. He has six wins in 14 starts, earnings of $61,196 and is coming off a fourth in a July 2 optional claimer. Smiling Goodbye is by Smiling Tiger, out of the Muqtarib mare Quickly Gone, was bred by Harris Farms, is owned by Little Barn Racing and trained by Debby Peery. He has three wins in 14 starts, earnings of $86,845... ...

Cause She’s a Lady in Emerald Downs Stakes

AUBURN, Wash. (July 19, 2023) – Cause She’s a Lady is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $50,000 Washington State Legislators Stakes for fillies and mares at Emerald Downs. Cause She’s a Lady is by Creative Cause, out of the Warrior’s Reward mare Warriorscmoutoplay, was bred by Thomas Bachman, is owned by Quest Racing and trained by Blaine Wright. She has three wins in 11 starts, earnings of $83,610 and is coming off a third in the June 25 Hastings Stakes. ...

Fairs Could Step in When Golden Gate Closes

By Los Angeles Times In a major move that will change California horse racing, The Stronach Group announced Sunday that it will cease racing at Golden Gate Fields in the Bay Area at the end of its meeting on Dec. 19. The move is being made to help prop up racing at Santa Anita by increasing field sizes and the possibility of adding a fourth day of racing back to the Arcadia track. It’s unclear what will happen to the land that straddles Albany and Berkeley, but one possibility is that it could become either a state park or an open green space. Other possibilities have not been ruled out. “We believe that the future success of racing depends on a business model that encourages investment in Southern California, one of North America’s premier racing circuits,” said Belinda Stronach, chief executive and president of The Stronach Group. “Focusing on Santa Anita Park and San Luis Rey Downs as a state-of-the-art racing and training facilities that offer enhanced program quality, increased... ...

Another Stakes Win for Clovisconnection

By DRF.com AUBURN, Wash. (July 16, 2023) — Sunday’s $50,000 Irish Day Stakes at Emerald Downs turned into a great contest between the two favorites with California-bred multiple stakes winner Clovisconnection prevailing by a neck under a vigorous ride by Kevin Radke. Runner-up Lloyds Logic, making just his second start of 2023 for Tom Wenzel, darted clear from the opening bell and led the field through a soft opening quarter-mile of 22.11 seconds. Clovisconnection, the 3-5 favorite, soon cruised up on the outside to take command just inside the three-eighths marker while appearing then as if he would make short work of his rivals. From that point on, Lloyds Logic battled fiercely from the inside while Radke selected a path toward the middle of the track that afforded plenty of room in which to urge his charge. Clovisconnection was bred by owner William and Judy Hedrick and is trained by Blaine Wright. The 3-year-old son of Vronsky, out of the Perfect Mandate mare La Darling, covered the 6 1/2 furlongs in... ...

Yo Yo Candy’s Win Buoys Breeder Gonzalez

By Bloodhorse.com SAN MIGUEL, Calif. (July 16, 2023) — The racing industry microcosm is not immune to the highs and lows of life; in fact, it often acts as an amplifier. Adrian Gonzalez of Checkmate Thoroughbreds, member of the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association Board of Directors, is especially well versed in the subject following the events of the past couple weeks. Devastation over losing several yearlings in a fiery trailer accident last month turned to pure joy as he and his family gathered around the television in their California living room July 15 to cheer Yo Yo Candy home in the Sanford Stakes (G3) at Saratoga Race Course. “We were very, very thrilled to have a homebred running at a venue like Saratoga. It just was really a special moment. We were watching it on the couch, my wife and I, and the kids were screaming,” Gonzalez said. “We’re a pretty small operation, the whole family comes out to the barn at night when the mares foal so everyone has nicknames for the babies. “It’s really cool to... ...

Yo Yo Candy

Yo Yo Candy wins $175,000 Grade III Sanford Stakes. ...

Cal-bred Stablemates Meet in Count Lathum

EDMONTON, Alberta (July 18, 2023) – California-bred stablemates Northern Jewel and Cali Conquest are entered in Saturday’s $50,000 Count Lathum Handicap for 3-year-olds at Century Mile. Northern Jewel is by Kitten’s Joy, out of the Street Cry mare Northern Station, was bred by Tommy Town Thoroughbreds, is owned by Al Pitchko and trained by Rodney Cone. He has one win in 10 starts, earnings of $21,289 and is coming off a second in a July 1 allowance. Cali Conquest is by Conquest Farenheit, out of the Two Step Salsa mare Salsita, was bred by Rockingham Ranch, is owned by Al Pitchko and trained by Rodney Cone. He has one win in 14 starts, earnings of $48,058 and is coming off a fourth in a June 23 optional claimer. ...

Pair of Smiling Tigers Enter R.J. Speers

WINNIPEG, Manitoba (July 17, 2023) – Multiple stakes winner Tiger Dad and fellow California-bred Magic Tiger, both sons of Smiling Tiger, are entered in Wednesday’s $50,000 R.J. Speers Memorial Stakes at Assiniboia Downs. Tiger Dad is out of the Unusual Heat mare Q T Shea, was bred by Mark Devereaux, Scott Gross & Mark Gross, is owned by Rosette Ranch and trained by Robertino Diodoro. He has eight wins in 39 starts, earnings of $513,250 and is coming off a win in the June 28 Free Press Stakes. Magic Tiger is out of the Lucky Pulpit mare Funny Gal, was bred by Robert Heinz & Michelle Machado, is owned by Wind Dancer Stable & Bill Meikle and is trained by Wendy Anderson. He has nine wins in 26 starts, earnings of $107,492 and is coming off a third in the June 28 Free Press Stakes. ...

Clovisconnection

Clovisconnection wins Irish Day $50,000 Stakes. ...

NoCal Sale Grad in Saratoga Sanford Shocker

SARATOGA, N.Y. (July 15, 2023) – Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Yo Yo Candy, off at 46-1, pulled away to win Saturday’s $175,000 Grade III Sanford Stakes for 2-year-olds at Saratoga. Yo Yo Candy is a California-bred by Danzing Candy, out of the Two Punch mare Yolando B. Too, was bred by Checkmate Thoroughbreds, is owned by Happy Tenth Stable and trained by Daniel Velasquez. Yo Yo Candy is the first graded stakes winner for Danzing Candy, a multiple graded winner who stands at Rancho San Miguel. Yo Yo Candy was a $6,000 purchase at the Northern California Yearling Sale and was resold for $35,000 at the OBS March Sale of 2-year-olds. The colt has two wins in three starts, earnings of $141,250 and was coming off a third in the June 11 Tremont Stakes, which was won by Gold Sweep, the odds-on favorite of the Sanford who stumbled at the start and rallied to finish second. Ridden by Angel Castillo, Yo Yo Candy ran the six furlongs in 1:11.83... ...

Cal-bred Stakes on Breeders’ Cup Undercard

ARCADIA, CA (July 12, 2023)—With Santa Anita Park set to host the two-day Breeders’ Cup World Championships for a record 11th time on Nov. 3 & 4, Santa Anita’s 19-day Autumn Meet will open on Friday, Sept. 29 and will provide fans and horsemen with a comprehensive stakes schedule that will include a total of 42 stakes, including 31 graded events, highlighted by 15 Grade I’s, with four stakes restricted to California-bred or sired horses. Two of those state-bred stakes will be run on the Breeders’ Cup undercard on Friday, Nov. 3. They are for 2-year-olds — the $175,000 Golden State Juvenile and the $175,000 Golden State Juvenile Filles. Santa Anita will honor the late Sherwood Chillingworth, a longtime director with Santa Anita-based Oak Tree Racing Association, with the Grade III Chillingworth Stakes for fillies and mares at 6 ½ furlongs, on opening day, Sept. 29. Legendary Hall of Fame jockey Eddie Delahoussaye will again be honored with the Grade II... ...

Weekend Racing Canceled at Cal Expo

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (July 12, 2023) — The California State Fair at Cal Expo canceled its opening weekend race programs out of safety concerns over projected extreme temperatures in Sacramento. Like all race meets in California, the State Fair follows the Inclement Weather Policy (IWP) developed by the California Horse Racing Board, a policy that includes recommendations and requirements pertaining to the heat index, which is a combination of temperature, wind speed, and humidity. The IWP lists the heat index in steps, beginning at 130, the point at which some horses experience discomfort. The danger to horses increases at 150, then reaches a critical level at 180. Although the heat index is not expected to reach 150 in Sacramento this weekend, so racing could have taken place provided horses were given plenty of water and other cooling techniques, management at Cal Expo in consultation with the CHRB and the California Authority of Racing Fairs (CARF) elected to cancel racing on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday out of an abundance of... ...

TOBA Owners Seminar July 23 at Del Mar

From TOBA DEL MAR, Calif. (July 12, 2023) – The Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association will hold an owners seminar on Friday, July 23, in the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club Directors Room. This one-of-a-kind owner education experience will take place in the Director’s Room with stunning views of “Where the Surf Meets the Turf.” Attendees will have the opportunity to stretch their legs during a barn tour, network with fellow (or perspective) owners and hear from experts on many facets of the industry and Thoroughbred ownership. Attendees will learn insights on different aspects of Thoroughbred ownership, partnerships, legal aspects, racing office policy & procedures, veterinary perspectives, and more from industry professionals as well as enjoy a day at the races, compliments of the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club. Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association Educational seminars are open to both TOBA members and non-members, with discounts for members of TOBA or any hosting/sponsor organizations. Meals, materials, and a TOBA gift bag are included with registration. Price – $129/Non-TOBA Member or $99/TOBA Member. Contact Barkley Porter... ...

Grazen Colt Sells for $100,000 at Fasig-Tipton

LEXINGTON, Ky. (July 11, 2023) — A Maryland-bred son of California stallion Grazen sold for $100,000 at Tuesday’s Fasig-Tipton July Select Yearling Sale. The colt, out of the stakes-winning Johannesburg mare Hard to Resist, was sold to Bill Goodman, agent for George Sharp, and is a half-sibling to Grade I winner Going to Vegas. ...

Big Stretch Entered in Canada Stakes

WINNIPEG, Manitoba (July 14, 2023) – Big Stretch is the lone California-bred entered in Monday night’s $50,000 Canada Stakes for fillies and mares at Assiniboia Downs. Big Stretch is by Mr. Big, out of the Curlin mare Mr. Zito, was bred by George Krikorian, is owned by A2 Thoroughbreds and trained by Michael Nault. She has three wins in 28 starts, earnings of $142,722 and is coming off a fourth in the June 27 La Verendrye Stakes. ...

Spitten Kitten Keeps Winning in Canada

WINNIPEG, Manitoba (July 11, 2023) – California-bred Spitten Kitten extended her win streak to four with a romp in Monday night’s $50,000 Jack Hardy Stakes for 3-year-old fillies at Assiniboia Downs. Spitten Kitten is by Air Force Blue, out of the Kitten’s Joy mare Zahrah, was bred by Richard Barton Enterprises and is owned by trainer Marvin Buffalo, Deb Buffalo and Arnold Souster. She has five wins in eight starts and $81,434 in earnings. She ran the 7 ½ furlongs in 1:312.84 and won by 10 ¼ lengths as the 9-5 favorite in a field of 10. ...

Spiced Perfection Foal Brings $1.188 Million

HOKKAIDO, Japan (July 11, 2023) – A Japanese-bred colt out of two-time California-bred Horse of the Year Spiced Perfection sold for nearly $1.2 million at Tuesday’s JHRA Select Sale. The colt is by American Pharoah and out of Spiced Perfection, who was by Smiling Tiger, out of the Pleasantly Perfect mare Perfect Feat and was bred by Premier Thoroughbreds. The winning bid was for $1,188,812 (USD). Spiced Perfection had nine wins in 22 starts and earnings of $1,224,705. Among her wins were the Grade I La Brea and Madison Stakes, the Grade II Thoroughbred Club of America Stakes and the Grade III Go for Wand Handicap. ...

Cashing Big Checks in Caesar’s Wish

LAUREL, Md. (July 9, 2023) – Stakes winner Cashing Big Checks, a graduate of the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association’s January Sale, is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Caesar’s Wish Stakes for fillies and mares at Laurel Park. Cashing Big Checks is by Mr. Big, out of the Indian Charlie mare Palisadesprincess, was bred by George Krikorian is owned by David Bernsen and trained by Lacey Gaudet. The $1,500 purchase at the CTBA January Sale has four wins in 20 starts, earnings of $212,260 and is coming off a fifth in a June 3 optional claimer. ...

Everett Nevin Draws Seven California-breds

PLEASANTON, Calif. (July 6, 2023) – Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Kristin Lee is one of seven California-breds entered in Sunday’s $75,000 Everett Nevin Stakes for 2-year-olds at the Alameda County Fair. Shady Appeal is by Twice the Appeal, out of the Bandini mare Santa Lucia, was bred by owner Rusty Brown and is trained by Jeff Bonde. He won his lone start June 11 with earnings of $36,600. Lusma is a filly by Conquest Farenheit, out of the Strike for Glory mare Strike at Daylight, was bred by Rockingham Ranch, is owned by Hector Preciado and is trained by Jose Bautista. She has one win in two starts, earnings of $28,080 and is coming off a May 28 maiden win. Wild Jewels is by Tamarando, out of the Distorted Humor mare Ribbon of Jewels, was bred by owners Mr. & Mrs. Larry Williams and is trained by Steven Specht. He won his lone start June 25 with earnings of $20,280. Halo Rando is by Tamarando, out of the Lucky... ...

Cal-bred Pair Tangle in Pleasanton Mile

PLEASANTON, Calif. (July 6, 2023) – California-bred stakes winners American Farmer and Royal ‘n Rando are entered in Sunday’s $150,000 Pleasanton Mile at the Alameda County Fair. American Farmer is by Bluegrass Cat, out of the Quiet American mare Farmers Wife, was bred by BKB Stables and is owned by BKB Stables and trainer Steve Sherman. He has six wins in 36 starts, earnings of $338,390 and is coming off a second in the May 29 All American Stakes. Royal ‘n Rando is an also-eligible by Tamarando, out of the Grand Slam mare Royal Grand Slam, was bred by owners Mr. & Mrs. Larry Williams and is trained by Steven Specht. He has six wins in 19 starts, earnings of $202,094 and is coming off a seventh in the May 29 All American Stakes. ...

Angie C. Stakes Next for Bourbon Tiger

AUBURN, Wash. (July 6, 2023) – Bourbon Tiger is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $50,000 Angie C. Stakes for 2-year-old fillies at Emerald Downs. Bourbon Tiger is by Smiling Tiger, out of the Sky Mesa mare Spring Again, was bred by PT Syndicate #1, is owned by Dan Warden and Double R Racing and is trained by Blaine Wright. She won her lone start June 17 and has earnings of $12,920. ...

Spitten Kitten Risks Streak in Jack Hardy

WINNIPEG, Manitoba (July 6, 2023) – Spitten Kitten, who has a three-race win streak, and fellow California-bred The Comrie Rule are entered in Monday’s $50,000 Jack Hardy Stakes for 3-year-old fillies at Assiniboia Downs. Spitten Kitten is by Air Force Blue, out of the Kitten’s Joy mare Zahrah, was bred by Richard Barton Enterprises and is owned by trainer Marvin Buffalo, Deb Buffalo and Arnold Souster. She has four wins in seven starts, earnings of $58,380 and is coming off a win in the June 20 Chantilly Stakes. The Comrie Rule is by Stay Thirsty, out of the Mr. Greeley mare Star Chant, was bred by Rusty Brown, Debi Brown & Victor Flores, is owned by Carol Brown and trained by Allan Brown. She has one win in 11 starts, earnings of $18,885 and is coming off a fourth in a June 28 allowance. ...

Gallant Guy in Jonathan B. Schuster Stakes

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (July 4, 2023) – Gallant Guy is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Jonathan B. Schuster Memorial Stakes at Horseshoe Indianapolis. Gallent Guy is by Gallant Son, out of the Swiss Yodeler mare Quick Glory, was bred by Daehling Ranch and is owned by Cheryl Doyle, trainer Reina Gonzalez, Matthew Gutierrez and Gary Piper. He has four wins in 26 starts, earnings of $197,242 and is coming off a May 25 optional claiming win. ...

Shimmer Me Timbers Enters Garrett

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (July 4, 2023) — Shimmer Me Timbers is the lone California-bred entered in Friday’s $100,000 William Garrett Handicap at Horseshoe Indianapolis. Shimmer Me Timbers is by Eddington, out of the Rocky Bar mare Speedy Shimmer, was bred by Melissa Ford, is owned by Luis Jimenez and trained by Chris Goroslieta. He has four wins in eight starts, earnings of $95,220 and is coming off a third in a May 23 optional claimer. ...

One in Vermillion Enters Iowa Derby

ALTOONA, Iowa (July 2, 2023) – Multiple stakes winner One in Vermillion is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday night’s $300,000 Iowa Derby for 3-year-olds at Prairie Meadows. One in Vermillion is by Army Mule, out of the Any Given Saturday mare Given Star, was bred by Richard Barton Enterprises, is owned by Jonathan Kalman and trained by Esteban Martinez. He has five wins in nine starts, earnings of $279,240 and is coming off a second in the June 21 Canterbury Derby. ...

Tom’s Regret Wins Schmitt Pleasanton Oaks

By DRF.com PLEASANTON, Calif. (July 2, 2023) – Tom’s Regret finished second in three consecutive starts at Santa Anita in the spring – twice in stakes for California-breds and the Grade 3 Senorita Stakes. The filly’s summer season began with a much brighter performance. Tom’s Regret won her second career stakes, and ended a five-race losing streak, with an easy win in Sunday’s $75,900 Mary Clare Schmitt Pleasanton Oaks for statebred 3-year-old fillies at the Alameda County Fair in Pleasanton, Calif. Ridden by Kyle Frey, Tom’s Regret ($3.60) closed from last on the backstretch to take command of the six-furlong race on the turn. Frey moved Tom’s Regret on the inside to challenge pacesetter Lady Wolf, who quickly faded from contention. Tom’s Regret was clear of six rivals with a furlong remaining “I knew with her long stride she would eat up the stretch,” Frey told a television audience. :: Bet the races on DRF Bets! Sign up with code WINNING to get a $250 Deposit Match, $10 Free Bet,... ...

Top Harbor Tops in Oak Tree Sprint Stakes

By DRF.com PLEASANTON, Calif. (July 1, 2023) – Odds-on favorite Top Harbor rallied wide in the final quarter-mile for a comfortable win in Saturday’s $76,350 Oak Tree Sprint Stakes for California-breds and -sireds at the Alameda County Fair, confirming his status as the leading sprinter in Northern California. Top Harbor won the $75,900 Lost in the Fog Stakes at six furlongs on the synthetic main track at Golden Gate on April 29, and was second by a neck in the $66,350 Albany Stakes at five furlongs on turf there on June 10. In the Oak Tree Sprint at six furlongs, Top Harbor broke from the rail and was last briefly on the backstretch. Ridden by Frank Alvarado, Top Harbor raced on the rail to the turn when Alvarado moved the 5-year-old horse to the outside. Top Harbor closed well to win by two lengths, finishing in 1:10.29. Evenerevenworse (6-1) broke sharply from the outside post in a field of eight and led through fractions of 23.41 seconds for the opening... ...

Funeral Service July 11 for William Meyers

By DRF.com LODI, Calif. (June 30, 2023) — A funeral service will be held on July 11 at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Lodi, Calif., for state steward William Meyers, who died from health complications on June 10. The service will begin at 11 a.m. The church is located at 1055 South Lower Sacramento Road. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Racetrack Chaplaincy is requested. Meyers was 69. He was a racing official in California for more than 40 years and worked as recently as earlier this year at Golden Gate Fields. Will came from a racing family. His father was a steward and racing secretary. “Naturally, I started working with horses myself,” he once said. “When I was a boy we lived in Arcadia, then Coronado, and on weekends I would go down to Caliente to groom and pony horses. Later, I worked as a stewards’ aide in Stockton, Sacramento, and Ferndale.” Will rose through the ranks of racing officials and became a steward in 1984. He... ...

Rose Maddox, Chismosa in Great Lady M.

From Los Alamitos Publicity CYPRESS, Calif. (June 30, 2023) – California-breds Rose Maddox and Chismosa take on likely favorite Elm Drive in Tuesday’s $200,000 Great Lady M. Stakes for fillies and mares at Los Alamitos. A Grade II at 6 ½ furlongs, the Great Lady M. is the final of nine races on the special Fourth of July program. Post time is 1 p.m. and scheduled post time for the main event is 5:05 p.m. Trainer Steve Miyadi and owner-breeder Nick Alexander, who won this race in 2022 with Becca Taylor, will try to go back-to-back with Rose Maddox. A 4-year-old gray daughter of Grazen and the Unusual Heat mare Heat the Rocks, Rose Maddox has won five of 15 and earned $327,782. Worse than third only twice, she was most recently second in the Fran’s Valentine at one mile on turf, defeated by a half-length by Eddie’s New Dream. Chismosa will be cutting back in distance after finishing third in the Melair May 28, a race prohibitive favorite Ceiling... ...

CHRB Meeting Summary

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (June 30, 2023) — The California Horse Racing Board conducted a meeting on Thursday, June 29, 2023, at Cal Expo in Sacramento. Chairman Gregory Ferraro chaired the meeting, joined by Vice Chair Oscar Gonzales and Commissioners Dennis Alfieri and Brenda Washington Davis. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link. In brief: In his report to the Board, Dr. Jeff Blea, the CHRB equine medical director, advised that equine fatalities due to musculoskeletal injuries have declined by a third in FY 2022-23 (which concludes today) from the previous fiscal year. He reported on several new rules going into effect to protect horses – the latest in a long list of safety initiatives – and he credited those rules and procedures introduced at California racetracks with the decline in racing and training injuries. (The CHRB will be providing more details on FY 2022-23 fatalities in an upcoming news release.) The Board approved the license for Pacific Racing Association to run a... ...

Nominations Open for TB Employee Awards

From TIEA.org LEXINGTON, Ky. (June 30, 2023) — The Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards presented by Godolphin recognize and reward the outstanding talent, diligence and commitment of the unsung heroes in the Thoroughbred industry who are at the heart of our sport. Nominations are now being accepted for deserving individuals. Visit: Home – Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards (tiea.org) for details. ...

Solid Field for Mary Clare Schmitt Pleasanton Oaks

By DRF.com PLEASANTON, Calif. (June 30, 2023) — Just a Little Luck will be near the front in Sunday’s $75,000 Mary Clare Schmitt Pleasanton Oaks for California-breds and sired 3-year-old fillies at six furlongs at the Alameda County Fair. Whether she will set the pace or race as a stalker will be up to the filly. “She places herself,” trainer Andy Mathis said. “She’s not one you can fight with. If she wants to be forward and wants to be on the front end, you can’t convince her otherwise.” Just a Little Luck — a daughter of Straight Fire owned by breeders Terry Knight, Jean Annuzzi & Mel Annuzzi — led throughout a maiden race at 5 1/2 furlongs in her 2023 debut on March 11 at Golden Gate Fields, and was beaten a nose in an allowance race at that distance on April 21 after stalking the pace. “I think she has a chance,” Mathis said. “I thought the day she broke her maiden she ran well on the... ...

Fowler Blue Sets Ellis Park Track Record

HENDERSON, Ky. (June 29, 2023) – Fowler Blue, a California-bred by Curlin to Mischief, set a track record for 1 3/8 miles at Ellis Park in a Thursday allowance win. Bred by William Branch and Arnold Hill and owned by Branch, Fowler Blue ran the distance in 2:03.53 on a muddy and sealed main track. The race was originally scheduled to be run on the turf. Fowler Blue, out of the Unusual Heat mare Roses for Joni, is a 4-year-old gelding trained by Doug O’Neill. He has three wins in 15 starts and earnings of 159,249. He won Thursday by two lengths at odds of 10-1 in a field of six. ...

Tiger Dad Prevails in Free Press Stakes

WINNIPEG, Manitoba (June 28, 2023) — California-bred Tiger Dad outdueled Big Nick through the stretch to win Wednesday night’s $50,000 Free Press Stakes at Assiniboia Downs. Tiger Dad is a 7-year-old gelding by Smiling Tiger, out of the Unusual Heat mare Q T Shea, was bred by Mark Devereaux, Scott Gross & Mark Gross, is owned by Rosette Ranch and trained by Robertino Diodoro. He has eight wins in 39 starts, earnings of $513,250 and has four stakes wins. Tiger Dad ran the six furlongs in 1:11.17 and won by a head at odds of 4-1 in a field of nine. ...

NorCal Horsewoman Ellen Jackson Retires

By DRF.com VACAVILLE, Calif. (June 30, 2023) — California owner, breeder and trainer Ellen Jackson retired from training this week and is downsizing her breeding operation in Northern California. Jackson, 68, said on Wednesday that she has turned over her 16-horse racing stable to longtime assistant Alberto Ruvalcaba, who will have his first two runners at the Alameda County Fair in Pleasanton, Calif., on Saturday. “He’s been my assistant trainer for so many years,” Jackson said. “I handed everything over to him.” Ruvalcaba, 58, said on Thursday that he began working for Jackson in 1991 as an exercise rider and later as an assistant. Jackson cited health reasons as the primary reason for the change. She has been suffering from the effects of West Nile virus, primarily fatigue, she said. “I retired,” she said. “I gave up my license. “I need to get rid of the stress in my life. I’ve had poor health. Once a month, I’ll have an episode when I can’t get up.” As a trainer, Jackson won... ...

Top Harbor, Cool Mountain Lad in Oak Tree

By DRF.com PLEASANTON, Calif. (June 28, 2023) – Top Harbor is a length away from an unbeaten record in Northern California this year, which is why the 5-year-old horse will be favored to win Saturday’s $75,000 Oak Tree Sprint for California-breds or sireds at the Alameda County Fair. After finishing second by three-quarters of a length in the El Dorado Shooter Stakes at Golden Gate Fields in February, Top Harbor — a son of Harbor the Gold bred by owners Eric Schweiger, Gordy Jarnig & Kenny Marshall — won consecutive starts in an allowance race and the Lost in the Fog Stakes in April. The winning streak ended with a fast-closing second by a neck in the Albany Stakes at five furlongs on turf on June 11. “He’s a gamer everywhere you go,” trainer Tim McCanna said. The Oak Tree Sprint at six furlongs will be Top Harbor’s first start at Pleasanton since a second in the 2021 Oak Tree Sprint. :: Take your handicapping to the next level and play... ...

Self Isolation Enters Monmouth’s Regret

OCEANPORT, N.J. (June 28, 2023) – Self Isolation is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Regret Stakes for fillies and mares at Monmouth Park. Self Isolation is by Square Eddie, out of the Spring At Last mare Loan Savant, was bred by Reddam Racing and is owned by trainer David Jacobson She has eight wins in 22 starts, earnings of $382,370 and is coming off a June 16 optional claiming win. ...

Cal-bred Pair Eye Los Alamitos Derby

CYPRESS, Calif. (June 30, 2023) – California-breds Clouseau and McGregor Lake have been nominated to the July 8 $125,000 Los Alamitos Derby for 3-year-olds, to be run at 1 1/8 miles. Clouseau is by Distorted Humor, out of the Bernardini mare English Garden, was bred by PT Syndicate #1, is owned by ISK Racing Stable Inc., Doug Hames, Rebekah Lawless, Tom Lawless, Frank Lewkowitz, and Karen Lewkowitz and trained by Ian Kruljac. He has three wins in seven starts, earnings of $173,360 and is coming off a second in the May 28 Snow Chief Stakes, presented by City National Bank. McGregor Lake is by Saburo, out of the Idiot Proof mare Spectacular Proof, was bred by owner Ruis Racing and is trained by Antonio Garcia. He won his lone start June 10 at odds of 63-1 with earnings of $36,600. ...

Stealthespotlight Steps Up to Lassie Stakes

ALTOONA, Iowa (June 30, 2023) – Stealthespotlight is the lone California-bred entered in Friday’s $100,000 Prairie Gold Lassie Stakes for 2-year-old fillies at Prairie Meadows. Stealthespotlight is by Cat Burglar, out of the Tribal Rule mare Star of Munster, was bred by Richard Barton Enterprises, is owned by James Williams, Tyler Bowen, Rick Gallegos, Eric Rossman, Curt Stark and Chris Anderson and is trained by Matt Williams. She won her lone start Apr. 29 at Santa Anita with earnings of $36,000. ...

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