Santa Anita Juvenile Draws Pair

Jul 6, 2016 Posted by CTBA In Uncategorized

ARCADIA, Calif. (July 6, 2016) – California-breds Green With Eddie and California Diamond are entered in Saturday’s $125,000 Santa Anita Juvenile Stakes for 2-year-olds. Green With Eddie is by Square Eddie, out of the Yonaguska mare Marquis Diamond, was bred by owner Reddam Racing and is trained by Doug O’Neill. He won his lone start June 3 with earnings of $33,600. California Diamond is by Harbor the Gold, out of the Slewdledo mare Carrie’s a Jewel, was bred by Stormy Hull, is owned by Dickman Legacy Ranch and trained by John Brocklebank. He won his lone start June 17 and has earnings of $33,600. ...

Cal-bred Trio in Landaluce

ARCADIA, Calif. (July 6, 2016) – California-bred first-out winners Love a Honeybadger, Cioppino Pasadino and Theonewewaitedfor are entered in Saturday’s $125,000 Landaluce Stakes for 2-year-old fillies at Santa Anita. Love a Honeybadger is by Bushwacker, out of the Not For Love mare Angela’s Love, was bred by Terry Lovingier, is owned by E-Racing.com, Faurot or Lyons and is trained by Brian Koriner. She won her lone start May 19 with earnings of $33,600. Cioppino Pasadino is by Time to Get Even, out of the Forest Wildcat mare Clawpuccino, was bred by Terry Lovingier, is owned by Lovingier or Gary Sherlock and is trained by Sherlock. She won her lone start May 28 with earnings of $33,600. Theonewewaitedfor is by Creative Cause, out of the Eastern Echo mare Yolo Lady, was bred by owner Heinz Steinmann and is trained by Mike Harrington. She won her lone start May 26 with earnings of $43,680. ...

Ralis Back in N.Y. for Belmont Derby

ELMONT, N.Y. (July 6, 2016) – Ralis is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $1.25 million Grade I Belmont Derby Invitational Stakes for 3-year-olds. Ralis is by Square Eddie, out of the Ten Most Wanted mare Silar Rules, was bred by owner Reddam Racing and is trained by Doug O’Neill. He has two wins in 12 starts, earnings of $349,083 and is coming off a second in the June 18 Rainbow Stakes. He won the Grade I Hopeful at Saratoga last summer. ...

2016 Northern California Sale Index to Dams

Aclevershadeofjade: 5. Agua de Mayo: 6. Akiss Forarose: 7. Alpenwald: 8. Amapola’s Wish: 9. Amazing Journey: 10. Amybdancing: 11. Anuska: 12. Arousing: 13. Bal d’Argent: 14. Ballerina Angel: 217. Baracuda Belle: 218. Bay Colony: 15. Bee Eff Eff: 16. Belong to Parfait: 17. Bertsgirl: 18. Bodacious Bertha: 19. Bold Request: 20. Bold Roberta: 21. Brave Deed: 22. Brian’s Mark: 23. Broke the Slump: 24. Brought It: 25. Cactus Flyer: 26. Cantabile: 27. Caroline Elena: 219. Castle Bet: 28. Cat On the Cover: 29. Catchthecat: 220. Category Ten: 30. Cause I’m Tricky: 221. Causeway R. N.: 31. Cee’s Hollie: 32. Chalet Chanteuse: 33. Charming Surprise: 34. Checkpluschick: 35. Cinderella Liberty: 222. Confectionary: 36. Cop a Smoke: 37. Coyote Kate: 38. Cricket Wicket: 39. Crown of Jewels: 40. Cuvee Exchange: 41. Dancing Event: 42. Dangerous Behavior: 43. Dappled Image: 44. Dona Amelia (CHI): 45. Don’t Despair: 46. Dream Spotter: 47. Ebbets Field: 48. Edamame: 49. Eight Times Eight: 50, 223. El Sierra Tahoe: 51. Elusive Babe: 52. Estrellica: 53. Eternal Melody (NZ):... ...

Sky Jack Passes at 20

TEMECULA, Calif. (July 5, 2016) — California-bred Sky Jack, a millionaire Grade I winner, passed away Tuesday. He was 20. The gray gelded son of Jaklin Klugman, owned and bred by Rene and Margie Lambert, won the California Cup Classic and Grade III Native Diver Handicap in 2000 before needing more than a year off with knee problems and colic. He returned in 2002 to win the Grade I Hollywood Gold Cup and Grade II Mervyn LeRoy, before going back on the shelf. He finished his career with a win in the Grade III Longacres Mile in 2003, setting a track record of 1:33, but was retired on the eve of taking another shot at the Cal Cup Classic. “He was training very well and when we entered him, we had every expectation he would run another big race,” trainer Doug O’Neill told California Thoroughbred. “But the morning before the race, he came back from a routine gallop with some soreness. Not only did we have to scratch him, but... ...

Mrazek

Mrazek wins $100,000 Thor’s Echo Handicap. ...

Mrazek the Best in Thor’s Echo

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (July 4, 2016)–Red hot California-based stallion Square Eddie struck again in Monday’s $100,000 Thor’s Echo Handicap at Santa Anita, as Reddam Racing’s homebred Mrazek returned from a disappointing foray to New York to post a facile 1 ½ length win under Mario Gutierrez while covering six furlongs in 1:09.45. Breaking from the far outside in a field of six Golden State Series eligible three year olds and up bred or sired in California, Mrazek sat comfortably behind a group of four dueling leaders before he swung four-wide turning for home in a visually impressive display of class as Gutierrez geared him down near the wire. “He’s such an honest horse,” said O’Neill, who got his second win on the day. “Seven out of eight times now, he’s been first or second. His last race in New York (Grade II, seven furlong Woody Stephens Stakes at Belmont Park June 11), it was just a big field, he had a lot of traffic troubles and he... ...

Lost Bus

Lost Bus wins $100,000 Spring Fever Handicap. ...

Lost Bus Catches Spring Fever

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (July 4, 2016)–With heavily favored Sunday Rules caving to early pace pressure, Terry Lovingier’s Lost Bus, who sat a comfortable third into the far turn, rallied three-wide turning for home under Fernando Perez and took charge a furlong out en route to an impressive 2 ½ length win in Monday’s $100,000 Spring Fever Handicap for Golden State Series eligible fillies and mares, three and up bred or sired in California. Trained by Gary Sherlock, Lost Bus got six furlongs in 1:09.54. Breaking from the rail and with Sunday Rules to her immediate outside, Lost Bus, who was fourth, beaten 4 ½ lengths by the mighty Beholder in the Grade I Vanity Mile here on June 4, steadied between the favorite and speedy Codacious approaching the half mile pole, but quickly settled into stride as the leading pair dueled through splits of 21.95, 44.75 and 56.87. “The five (Codacious) went with the two (Sunday Rules) and softened her up and it may have made a... ...

NorCal Sale Grad Wins Everett Nevin

By Dennis Miller PLEASANTON, Calif. (July 3, 2016) — For any jockey to win a stakes race, there needs to be a certain amount of calmness during the ride. Sunday in the $100,000 Everett Nevin Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 2-year-olds in the Oak Tree at Pleasanton meet during the Alameda County Fair, jockey Julien Couton was about as cool as the other side of the pillow in guiding Llobo — a graduate of the Northern California Yearling Sale — to the win. Llobo is by Tribal Rule, out of the Swiss Yodeler mare Serena’s Echo, was bred by Cole Ranch, is owned by Robert Jones or Lloyd Mason and is trained by Mason. The $34,000 purchase at the Northern California Yearling Sale has won both career starts with earnings of $73,520. Trained by Lloyd Mason and assistant trainer Faith Taylor, Llobo was in a power-packed field of seven 2-year-old horses going 5 ½ furlongs in the richest stakes race during the 12-day Oak Tree meet. With speed all... ...

Only You Babe Wins Juan Gonzalez

By Dennis Miller PLEASANTON, Calif. (July 2, 2016) — The race track in Pleasanton that hosts the Oak Tree at Pleasanton meet during the Alameda County Fair has long been known as a speed-favoring track and many times, the first horse into the stretch often wins the race. Often, but not always. Saturday afternoon the running of the $50,000 Juan Gonzalez Memorial Stakes for 2-year-old fillies run at 5 ½ furlongs did not follow the pattern of the Pleasanton tracks, as California-bred Only You Babe came from last to first to win the race. In fact, Only You Babe was still in fifth in the six-horse field as they turned for home. But jockey Frank Alvarado knew things would fall his way. Only You Babe is by Thorn Song, out of the Johannesburg mare Book’em Babe, was bred by owners Mr. and Mrs. Larry Williams and is trained by Steve Specht. She has two wins in four starts, earnings of $74,600 and was coming off a maiden win June 11.... ...

Sherman Wanted Faster Chrome Work

By Bloodhorse.com CYPRESS, Calif. (July 2, 2016) — Trainer Art Sherman has said for weeks leading up to California Chrome ‘s next start in the July 23 San Diego Handicap (gr. II)—when the blinkers go on, that’s when things get serious. Wearing his silver California Chrome-stamped hood as he stepped onto the track at Los Alamitos Race Course during his private 5:30 a.m. PT session July 2, the 2014 Horse of the Year was supposed to crank it up a notch. But right after his seventh timed work under exercise rider Dihigi Gladney in preparation for his first start since victory in the March 26 Dubai World Cup (UAE-I), Sherman said he was looking for a little more. California Chrome worked six furlongs to the wire in 1:13 1/5, but will officially go onto the work tab for seven furlongs in 1:26 2/5. His last two works recorded for six furlongs went onto the tab at 1:12 2/5 each. “I’ll be honest with you, I wanted a little stronger work,” Sherman said. “When I... ...

King Glorious Passes in Japan at 30

By Bloodhorse.com HOKKAIDO, Japan (July 2, 2016) – King Glorious, a California-bred multiple grade I winner and successful sire, has passed away at the age of 30 in Japan, Kate Hunter of Paca Paca Farms shared via Twitter July 2. A son of Naevus out of Glorious Natalie, by Reflected Glory, King Glorious had been pensioned from stud duty at JBBA Shizunai Stallion Station since 2010 due to declining fertility. King Glorious won eight of his nine career starts in the United States, including his first six outings consecutively, capped by a 21-length triumph in the Piedmont Stakes at Golden Gate Fields. He owned wins in the 1988 Hollywood Futurity (gr. I), after which he was named California’s Horse of the Year. At age 3, his missed the Triple Crown series, but he captured the 1989 Haskell Invitational Handicap (gr. I) and Ohio Derby (gr. II). Overall, he won five graded stakes. King Glorious was bred by the Halo Farms of Ted Aroney, who campaigned him with Alan Magerman of Philadelphia. He was... ...

Sunday Rules Seeks Spring Fever Repeat

ARCADIA, Calif. (July 1, 2016) – Sunday Rules is back to defend her title in Monday’s $100,000 Spring Fever Handicap for Golden State Series eligible fillies and mares at Santa Anita. Lost Bus is by Bring the Heat, out of the Stravinsky mare Frysland, was bred by John Haagsma and Wesley Ward, is owned by Terry Lovingier and trained by Gary Sherlock. She has four wins in 14 starts, earnings of $350,818 and is coming off a fourth in the June 4 Vanity Mile. Sunday Rules is by Tribal Rule, out of the General Meeting mare Sunday Dress, was bred by owner Nick Alexander and is trained by Phil D’Amato. She has eight wins in 10 starts, earnings of $535,840 and is coming off a ninth in the Apr. 9 Madison. She won this race last year. Sidepocket Run is by Unbridled Native, out of the Exclusive Ribot mare On the Snap, was bred by owner Tony Sardo and is trained by Phil D’Amato. She has three wins in 30... ...

Mrazek Returns in Thor’s Echo

By Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (July 1, 2016) –Reddam Racing’s homebred Mrazek returns from a disappointing foray to Belmont Park on June 11 to head Monday’s $100,000 Thor’s Echo Handicap at Santa Anita. To be contested at six furlongs, the Thor’s Echo, which attracted a field of six, is a part of the Golden State Series and is for California-bred or sired 3-year-olds and up. Mrazek’s competition includes Raised a Secret, who comes off a third place finish to recent Grade I winner Lord Nelson, consistent Forest Chatter, comebacking Magic Mark and Nardo, who comes off a pair of recent allowance wins. MRAZEK: By red hot sire Square Eddie, he’s out of the Wild Rush mare Heckuva Rush. A well beaten 10th in the Grade II, seven furlong Woody Stephens Stakes June 11 at Belmont Park, he was second, beaten a neck two starts back here in the Grade III, seven furlong Lazaro Barrera Stakes on May 14. A winner versus statebreds of Del Mar’s 5 ½ furlong... ...

Cal-bred Quartet in Oak Tree Sprint

PLEASANTON, Calif. (July 1, 2016) – California-breds Bold Fantasy, Hypnatique, Cartoonist and My Friend Emma take on millionaire Grade I winner Sahara Sky in Monday’s $50,000 Oak Tree Sprint at Oak Tree at Pleasanton. Bold Fantasy is by Bertrando, out of the Rock Hard Ten mare Fantasy Rocks, was bred by Steve and Maria Pavich, is owned by Curt & Lila Lanning and is trained by Ed Moger Jr. He has five wins in 24 starts, earnings of $213,487 and is coming off a sixth in the June 11 Albany. Hypnatique is by Scat Daddy, out of the Genuine Guy mare More Mascara, was bred by owners Rhianon Farms and Gloria Haley and is trained by Haley. He has five wins in 19 starts, earnings of $147,960 and is coming off a ninth in the June 11 Albany. Cartoonist is by Comic Strip, out of the Devil On Ice mare Ivy Lane, was bred by Dr. and Mrs. William Gray, is owned by Scott Herbertson and is trained by Jonathan... ...

Santa Anita Turf Course Installed

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (June 30, 2016) —Santa Anita Park June 29 completed the installation of its new turf course, which will be ready for use for the Southern California track’s fall meet, which begins Sept. 30. Including the hillside component, Santa Anita’s unique turf course covers approximately nine acres of surface area, which has now been amended and covered. The Bandera Bermuda turf mixture was grown in La Quinta, Calif., approximately 120 miles east of the Arcadia racetrack. “This has been a major undertaking and we’re very pleased with how the entire project has progressed,” said Joe Morris, senior vice president of West Coast operations for The Stronach Group. “The hillside portion of the course was completed about three weeks ago and the oval was finished late yesterday. This particular turf has proven very resilient in our immediate area and right now, with the warm temperatures we’ve been experiencing, conditions are optimal for fast growth. “The hillside has already begun to root, so that’s great news. About 40% of... ...

NorCal Sale Grad in Nevin Stakes

PLEASANTON, Calif. (June 30, 2016) – Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Dutt Bart, a first-out winner, is among the entries in Sunday’s $100,000 Everett Nevin Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 2-year-olds at Oak Tree at Pleasanton. Rinse and Repeat is by Square Eddie, out of the Gilded Time mare Electric Daze, was bred by owner Reddam Racing and trained by Doug O’Neill. He is a maiden making his second start with earnings of $6,720. Jet Ski is by Vronsky, out of the Bold Badgett mare Pinky’s Posh, was bred by Old English Rancho and Patsy and Sal Berumen, is owned by Blinkers On Racing Stable, Georgetti or Les Wagner, et al and is trained by Jeff Bonde. This is his debut. Wally’s Got Class is by Sierra Sunset, out of the Lite the Fuse mare Classically Lit, was bred by owners George and Mary Clare Schmitt, Stan Hodge & Richard Meister and is trained by Jeff Bonde. This is his debut. Mo Soul is by Phantom Wildcat, out of... ...

Cal-bred Trio in Gonzalez Memorial

PLEASANTON, Calif. (June 29, 2016) – California-breds Only You Babe, Lemonaideen and Ronnie’s Girl are entered in Saturday’s $50,000 Juan Gonzalez Memorial Stakes for 2-year-old fillies at Oak Tree at Pleasanton. Only You Babe is by Thorn Song, out of the Johannesburg mare Book’em Babe, was bred by owners Mr. and Mrs. Larry Williams and is trained by Steve Specht. She has one win in three starts, earnings of $33,800 and is coming off a maiden win June 11. Lemonaideen is by Square Eddie, out of the General Meeting mare Meetmeinthewoods, was bred by Reddam Racing, is owned by Michael McGrath and trained by Edward Freeman. She won her lone start May 5 and has earnings of $33,800. Ronnie’s Girl is by Run Brother Ron, out of the Devon Lane mare Sierra Lane, was bred by owners George or Mary Clare Schmitt and is trained by Jeff Bonde. She won her lone start June 23 with earnings of $5,500. ...

John Barr

See the full story featured in our printed magazine online By Emily Shields, condensed version: John Barr John Barr is busier than the average man and wouldn’t have it any other way. As the president of the Oak Tree Racing Association, a California Thoroughbred Breeders Association board member, member of The Jockey Club, and a part of The Jockey Club Safety Committee, Barr is entrenched in all things equine around the clock. His precious “spare” time is spent as the treasurer of the Richard Nixon Foundation and keeping track of five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. All of this comes after he reduced his workload. “Back when I had my ranch, I had 60 head at one time,” Barr said. “I’ve cut back considerably over the years to just eight or nine horses.” The current pride and joy of Barr’s Oakcrest Stable is Bert’s Melody, a 5-year-old mare who won the $126,035 Fran’s Valentine Stakes May 28. She’s far from the first stakes star to shine under the Oakcrest banner; Bountiful Dreamer,... ...

Cheekaboo Celebrates Honeymoon

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (June 19, 2016)–With Mike Smith at the controls, California-bred Cheekaboo flew late and in a three-way blanket finish, got up to win Sunday’s Grade II, $200,000 Honeymoon Stakes by a head while covering 1 1/8 miles on turf in 1:46.86. On an unusually hot day that saw the thermometer hit 103 degrees at Santa Anita, Cheekaboo, who is by the aptly named Unusual Heat, took the final turf race of the 2016 Spring Meet, as construction on a new course will begin this evening. With Gone to Bali carving out fast early splits, Cheekaboo settled nicely off the pace while saving ground at the rail. With three furlongs to go, she had two horses beat and Smith bided his time inside as the complexion of the race changed dramatically with a quarter mile to run. “I followed Pete’s instructions,” said Smith. “…I saved all the ground that I could and I cut every corner and he told me to ‘go for broke’ and see... ...

Breeders’ Cup Volunteers Needed

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (June 18, 2016) –The 2016 Breeders’ Cup World Championships return to Los Angeles, CA and Santa Anita Park this fall on November 4 & 5 and volunteers are needed! The Breeders’ Cup is an annual year-end affair for those at the absolute pinnacle of the Thoroughbred horse racing industry. This Olympic-esque event held at premier North American racetracks is where participants from all over the world converge to compete for $28 million in purse money. Operated by Breeders’ Cup Limited, the World Championships were first held in 1984 at Hollywood Park in Inglewood, CA. A one-day event until 2006, the Breeders’ Cup is now spread over two highly anticipated days of racing that produce some of the most exciting moments of the year. Santa Anita, or “The Great Race Place,” as it is commonly referred to, opened in 1934 and sits atop 320 acres of land at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains in Arcadia, CA. The Art Deco designs throughout remind even... ...

‘Chrome in Speedy Workout

By Bloodhorse.com CYPRESS, Calif. (June 18, 2016) — As Art Sherman prepares California Chrome for his next start in the $200,000 San Diego Handicap (gr. II) with weekly timed workouts, the trainer seems to be more concerned with what happens after the wire than before. So when the 2014 Horse of the Year powered through the clubhouse turn at Los Alamitos Race Course, with a gallop out to six furlongs in 1:12 2/5 under regular exercise rider Dihigi Gladney June 18, Sherman was more than pleased from his post on the patio at Schwanies At The Gap. The 5-year-old son of Lucky Pulpit hit the wire in :59 1/5 for five furlongs, by far his swiftest breeze since returning to the Sherman barn in early May, but it was the finishing touch that again impressed his trainer. “The last part is where he kicks it in and the finish—once he goes out and goes around that turn—that shows his stamina is getting stronger,” Sherman said. “His gallop-out each time is... ...

Cheekaboo Dreaming of a Honeymoon

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 16, 2016) – Campanile stakes winner Cheekaboo and fellow California-bred How Unusual are entered in Sunday’s $200,000 Grade II Honeymoon Stakes for 3-year-old fillies at Santa Anita. Cheekaboo is by Unusual Heat, out of the Souvenir Copy mare Sandy Cheeks, was bred by Madeline Auerbach, Richard Rosenberg and Barry Abrams, is owned by Alesia, Burns or Ciaglia Racing and is trained by Peter Eurton. She has two wins in seven starts, earnings of $159,680 and is coming off a third in the May 28 Melair. How Unusual is by Unusual Heat, out of the Bartok mare Veela, was bred by Madeline Auerbach and Barry Abrams, is owned by Auerbach or Bardy Farm and is trained by Tim Yakteen. She has two wins in six starts, earnings of $98,515 and is coming off a May 28 optional claimer win. ...

Senate Passes Bill that Helps Racing

From NTRA WASHINGTON, D.C. (June 16, 2016) The U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations today passed the Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Bill for fiscal year 2017. This bill makes appropriations for the United States Treasury, Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and certain other government agencies and, similar to a companion bill passed out of committee in the U.S. House of Representatives last week, includes language that encourages the IRS to modernize regulations for withholding and reporting of pari-mutuel winnings. Recent actions by the Senate and House are the latest in a concerted, industry-wide effort to modernize regulations relating to pari-mutuel winnings. Updates proposed by the NTRA would clarify regulations by redefining the “amount of the wager” to include all of a bettor’s investment into a single pari-mutuel pool, and not simply the base amount of the winning combination. The effort has received support from Members of Congress as well as all segments of the horse racing industry, including customers, who last year submitted nearly 12,000 comments to the Treasury and... ...

Harris Seminar Planned for Oct. 7

COALINGA, Calif. (June 16, 2016) — Mark your calendar now for Friday, October 7, as the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association will sponsor a seminar on current breeding issues at the Harris Ranch Inn in Coalinga. The CTBA is reinstituting this annual seminar, which will consist of a full day of valuable information and has been popular for members and people in the California breeding and racing industry. Details for the event will be available soon. ...

Big Book Enters Fleur de Lis

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (June 15, 2016) – Big Book is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $200,000 Grade II Fleur de Lis Handicap for fillies and mares at Churchill Downs. Big Book is by Mr. Big, out of the Holy Bull mare Novel Twist, was bred by owner George Krikorian and is trained by Tim Yakteen. She has three wins in six starts, earnings of $139,640 and is coming off a May 20 optional claiming win. ...

Ralis, Smokey Image Seek Pot of Gold

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 15, 2016) – California-bred stakes winners Ralis and Smokey Image are entered in Saturday’s $75,000 Rainbow Stakes for 3-year-olds at Santa Anita. Ralis is a Grade I winner by Square Eddie, out of the Ten Most Wanted mare Silar Rules, was bred by owner Reddam Racing and is trained by Doug O’Neill. He has two wins in 11 starts, earnings of $328,923 and is coming off a second in the May 28 Snow Chief Stakes. Smokey Image is by Southern Image, out of the Free House mare Special Smoke, was bred by C Punch Ranch, is owned by Irvin Racing Stable and trained by Carla Gaines. He has six wins in nine starts, earnings of $455,445 and is coming off a third in the May 14 Laz Barrera Stakes. ...

Breakaway Dixie in Pleasanton Oaks

PLEASANTON, Calif. (June 15, 2016) – Breakaway Dixie is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $50,000 Pleasanton Oaks for 3-year-old fillies at the Oak Tree at Pleasanton meet. Breakaway Dixie is by Marino Marini, out of the Siberian Summer mare Grey Lassie, was bred by owners Randy Randazzo and Paul Conley and is trained by Ed Moger Jr. She has two wins in eight starts, earnings of $54,896 and is coming off a third in a May 26 optional claimer. ...

TOC Names Avioli CEO

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (June 15, 2016) — Greg Avioli, who has served as a senior adviser to the Thoroughbred Owners of California board of directors, has been named to the new post of chief executive officer of the organization effective July 16. Avioli, according to a June 15 release, has assisted the TOC with gaming legislation, advance deposit wagering issues, and strategic planning. He has held other racing industry positions, including CEO for The Stronach Group, president and CEO of Breeders’ Cup, chief operating officer of the National Thoroughbred Racing Association, and president of Horse PAC. “Given the many opportunities and challenges now facing the organization, we felt it was important to bring in additional executive experience on the management team,” TOC board chairman Mike Pegram said. “Greg has decades of experience at the highest levels of our industry and proven leadership in legislative and regulatory affairs.” Avioli said he will work to “improve the overall racing experience for owners in California.” ...

CHRB Discusses 2017 Racing Dates

By DRF.com ARCADIA, Calif. (June 15, 2016) — The 2017 racing calendar in Southern California may have fewer racing days at Los Alamitos compared to recent years, or could look similar to the 2014 and 2015 seasons, according to discussions at a California Horse Racing Board dates committee meeting at Santa Anita on Wednesday. The meeting, which lasted more than two hours, was the first public discussion on racing dates at venues throughout the state for 2017. Executives with racetracks and horsemen’s organizations spoke before the three-person committee consisting of chairman Chuck Winner and commissioners Steve Beneto and George Krikorian. No final plans were determined for 2017 dates in Southern and Northern California, with conversations expected to continue in coming weeks. A summary of Wednesday’s meeting will be discussed at Thursday’s meeting of the racing board. Final decisions on racing dates for 2017 is likely by the end of summer, or September. Wednesday, the focus of discussions on Southern California dates was whether Los Alamitos will host a two-week meeting... ...

Poshsky

Poshsky wins $100,000 Crystal Water Stakes ...

Poshsky Springs Upset in Crystal Water

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (June 11, 2016)–The longest shot in the field at 21-1, Poshsky, under Fernando Perez, looped the field turning for home and held off favored Alert Bay to win Saturday’s $100,000 Crystal Water Stakes for Golden State Series eligibles at Santa Anita by a neck. Trained by Peter Miller and saddled by his chief assistant, Ruben Albarado, Poshky covered one mile on turf in 1:35.77. With longshot Spirit Rules setting a fast pace, Poshsky, who broke from the rail in a field of six older California-bred or sired horses, was last but on the move into the far turn, wheeled four-wide turning for home and was all-out to outrun the favorite who battled back gamely at the rail. “He was back with Cal-breds and I think that was the key,” said Albarado. “He likes this track and we knew there was speed in the race, so we just told Fernando to sit back and he’ll run big. He rode the horse perfect. No questions asked.... ...

Another Triple for Unusual Heat

ALBANY, Calif. (June 11, 2016) – California stallion Unusual Heat, who scored a progeny triple on the May 29 Gold Rush card at Santa Anita, was represented by three winners on the Saturday card at Golden Gate. An Unusual Group won a $32,000 claimer in the third race. The mare was bred by Mr. and Mrs. Larry Williams, is owned by Janet Hollendorfer and George Todaro and trained by Jerry Hollendorfer. She is out of the General Meeting mare Gn. Group Meeting. Hittheroadrunning won a $6,250 claimer in the fifth race. The gelding was bred by Old English Rancho, is owned by Garry Madden & Jonathon Wong and trained by Wong. He is out of the Kennedy Road mare Gravel. Sizzlin’ Joe won a $16,000 claimer in the ninth race. The gelding was bred by AJM Racing, is owned by Mark Enlow and trained by John Martin. He is out of the Cherokee Run mare Nina’s Delight. ...

Joe Ciaglia

See the full story featured in our printed magazine online By Emily Shields, condensed version: A STABLE WITH A LOT OF CALIFORNIA CHEEK The tale of California Thoroughbred Breeders Association member Joe Ciaglia is so interwoven with those of partners Frank and Sharon Alesia, Mike Mellen, and Mike Burns that it is easy to forget that Ciaglia has his own unique story to tell. The California businessman, who doggedly earned his way into the racing partnership, now has at least a piece of 50 horses. After grade I success with horses such as Weemissfrankie and Dance With Fate, Ciaglia is grabbing headlines with his sophomore stakes-winning duo, Pacific Heat and Cheekaboo. Before he was a horse owner, Ciaglia worked at a Ralph’s grocery store in Arcadia, often popping to work after a day at Santa Anita. Ciaglia and his wife, Stephanie, eventually met trainer Peter Eurton, who introduced them to Frank and Sharon Alesia. Although Ciaglia is a likeable type, Frank Alesia proceeded with caution, waiting six months to claim a horse with his... ...

Breeders’ Cup Tickets on Sale

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (June 6, 2016) –Tickets for this year’s two-day Breeders’ Cup World Championships at Santa Anita Park are now on sale to the general public, officials said June 6. The event will be held Nov. 4-5. It will be the record ninth time Santa Anita will host the Breeders’ Cup, which offers 13 races and purses totaling $26 million. Ticket prices range from $25-$750 for Friday’s program and from $50-$850 for Saturday. General admission prices are $10 per pass on Friday and $25 per pass on Saturday when purchased in advance. General admission passes will be available at the gate on event days for $15 per pass Friday and $40 per pass Saturday. The passes don’t include a reserved seat. All fans that attend the World Championships will receive free track programs Friday and Saturday upon entering Santa Anita. Tickets can be purchased online at www.breederscup.com/tickets or by calling toll-free at 877-849-4287. In related business, Breeders’ Cup and Santa Anita have again enlisted QuintEvents as the official... ...

Earlier First Post for Santa Anita

By DRF.com ARCADIA, Calif. (June 5, 2016) — Santa Anita is adjusting its first post to 1:30 p.m. Pacific, beginning Thursday for the remainder of the spring-summer meeting through July 10. The only exception will be Saturday, when first post time is noon to coincide with the simulcast of the Belmont Stakes program in New York. Track officials are hoping an earlier post time will boost handle. Santa Anita marketing director Nate Newby said the previous first post time of 2 p.m. produced situations when handle on late races did not live up to expectations on occasions. Through the Memorial Day program on May 30, the 17th day of the 40-day meeting, on-track handle was down 3 percent from a comparable period in 2015, Newby said. All-sources handle was down 2 percent, while on-track attendance was up 6 percent. ...

CHRB Considers Third-Party Lasix

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (June 2, 2016) — The California Horse Racing Board will again consider adopting a third-party Lasix administration policy at its regular meeting June 16. The rule on third-party Lasix administration on race day is on the agenda for the June 16 CHRB meeting, confirms spokesman Mike Marten. The rule would meet the standards of the Association of Racing Commissioners International model rule and the National Uniform Medication Program in that independent veterinarians, rather than track veterinarians, would administer race-day Lasix. It would be similar to New York in that veterinarians employed by the racing association would conduct the race-day administrations. In California, like all other U.S. racing states, Lasix (furosemide and formally called Salix) is allowed to be administered on race day as a way to prevent or reduce the severity of exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage. Many states have had third-party Lasix administration policies in place for several years now, as the trend has been to shift away from track veterinarians to independent vets administering race-day Lasix (furosemide, officially... ...

Lost Bus Enters Vanity Mile

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 1, 2016) – Lost Bus is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $400,000 Grade I Vanity Mile Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita. Lost Bus is by Bring the Heat, out of the Stravinsky mare Frysland, was bred by John Haagsma and Wesley Ward, is owned by Terry Lovingier and trained by Gary Sherlock. She has four wins in 13 starts, earnings of $326,818 and is coming off a third in the Apr. 23 Great Lady M Stakes. ...

Dashing Don in River Rock

VANCOUVER, B.C. (June 1, 2016) – Dashing Don is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $50,000 River Rock Casino Handicap for 3-year-olds at Hastings Racecourse. Dashing Don is by Popular, out of the Meadowlake mare Summer Bay, was bred by Rod and Lorraine Rodriguez, is owned by JPD Holdings, Ross Rees and Nancy Betts and is trained by Betts. He has two wins in six starts, earnings of $34,959 and is coming off a sixth in a May 23 optional claimer. ...

Popalicious Wins First Lady

By DRF.com RUIDOSO, N.M. (May 31, 2016) – Lone California-bred Popalicious lifted jockey Ruby Gonzalez to a four-win day at Ruidoso Downs on Monday when she fought for a neck victory over Sky Rant in the $50,000 First Lady Handicap. It was another neck back to Untraveled in third. Popalicious is a daughter of Ministers Wild Cat. She was bred in California by Tommy Town Thoroughbreds. Popalicious ($9.40) was always prominent, racing with the leaders through fractions of 23.06 seconds for the opening quarter and 46.16 for the half-mile. She covered six furlongs in the race for fillies and mares in 1:12.34. Popalicious races for the partnership of Solitaire Stable, Skyler Kelley, Allen Aldrich, and Tom Mansor. She is trained by Henry Dominguez. Gonzalez’s other winners came in a dead heat in the fifth with Your Miss ($3.80), in the sixth with R C Dillinger ($10.80), and the seventh with Thrifty Lad ($12.80). ...

CHRB Clarifies Whip Vote

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (May 30, 2016) — The California Horse Racing Board would like to clear up any confusion over the vote at last Thursday’s Board meeting to amend Rule 1688, the riding crop rule. The vote did not change the current three-strike rule that was adopted at the November 2014 meeting of the CHRB. The vote merely authorizes a 45-day period for the public to comment on the proposed change. Following the 45-day public comment period, after considering input from all who wish to submit opinions, the Board will once again vote on whether or not to amend the current three-strike rule. The CHRB has set the standard by adopting several rules designed to protect horses, such as the establishment of safety requirements for the construction of the riding crop and the adoption of Rule 1688, which prohibits using the crop more than three times in succession without giving the horse a chance to respond. The proposed amendment would further state “except in the last 16th of a... ...

‘Chrome Might Race in 2017

By Paulick Report CYPRESS, Calif. (May 13, 2016) — Trainer Art Sherman laid out summer and fall race plans for fan favorite and Eclipse Award winner California Chrome on Thursday, according to a report in the Los Angeles Times. Chrome will start twice at Santa Anita Park and twice at Del Mar, with the goal of sweeping the Pacific Classic, Awesome Again, and Breeders’ Cup Classic, which would enable the team to pick up a $1 million bonus offered by The Stronach Group. Sherman also said there was a possibility the horse could run next year. The announcement yesterday of plans for the Pegasus World Cup at Gulfstream Park has the trainer thinking about running the horse in late January, depending upon his form and physical condition. The Cup’s scheduling in late January would still allow California Chrome to retire in time for the start of the 2017 breeding season. Sherman also hasn’t ruled out the possibility that Chrome could run later in his 6-year-old season. California Chrome is scheduled to breeze... ...

Alcatraz Could Be Land of Oz

ALBANY, Calif. (May 12, 2016) – Land of Oz is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $75,000 Alcatraz Stakes for 3-year-olds at Golden Gate. Land of Oz is by Best Minister, out of the Tabasco Cat mare Perfect Sense, was bred by Nadine Anderson & Brazeau Thoroughbred Farms, is owned by Anderson, Brazeau Thoroughbred Farms or Delia and is trained by Bill Delia. He has one win in five starts, earnings of $24,915 and is coming off a fifth in a May 8 starter’s allowance. ...

Seeking a Mystery Seeking a Win

AUBURN, Wash. (May 12, 2016) – Seeking a Mystery is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $50,000 Auburn Handicap for 3-year-old colts and geldings at Emerald Downs. Seeking a Mystery is by Heatseeker, out of the Game Plan mare Mystical Game, was bred by Curt and Lila Lanning, is owned by Valentin Picho Garcia and is trained by Robert Baze. He has one win in six starts, earnings of $8,085 and is coming off an Apr. 23 maiden claiming win. ...

Masochistic Returns to Work Tab

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (May 12, 2016) — Grade I winning California-bred Masochistic recorded his first timed workout of 2016 on Thursday, going three furlongs in :37 1/5. Los Pollos Hermanos Racing and Jay Em Ess Stables’ Masochistic, last year’s Triple Bend (gr. I) winner, has been off to recover from a fractured hind cannon, which trainer Ron Ellis thinks occurred during his 14th-place run in the Breeders’ Cup Sprint (gr. I) at Keeneland. In his first work, the 6-year-old Sought After gelding was aided a bit by a slight dose of tranquilizer. Masochistic has a tendency to speed through his works, so Ellis wanted to make sure he didn’t go too fast, too soon. “If I didn’t have him a little tranquilized, he’d be a little tough, because he still has that determination to get going,” Ellis said. “I just didn’t want him to go to fast too soon and pull a ligament or a muscle. He’ll go out there and think he’s going to do (five furlongs in)... ...

Smokey Image Tries Barrera

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 11, 2016) – Multiple stakes winner Smokey Image and fellow California-bred stakes winner Mrazek are entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Grade III Lazaro Barrera Stakes for 3-year-olds at Santa Anita. Smokey Image is by Southern Image, out of the Free House mare Special Smoke, was bred by C Punch Ranch, is owned by Irvin Racing and trained by Carla Gaines. He has six wins in eight starts, earnings of $443,445 and is coming off a seventh in the Apr. 9 Santa Anita Derby. Mrazek is by is by Square Eddie, out of the Wild Rush mare Heckuva Rush, was bred by owner Reddam Racing and is trained by Doug O’Neill. He has two wins in five starts, earnings of $147,770 and is coming off a second in an Apr. 21 optional claimer. ...

Central Heat Risks Win Streak

ALBANY, Calif. (May 11, 2016) – Defending champion Central Heat risks her six-race win streak in Saturday’s $50,000 Golden Poppy Stakes for fillies and mares at Golden Gate. Central Heat is by Unusual Heat, out of the Smart Strike mare Miss Boomtown, was bred by Abrams, Huston Racing, Matties Racing and Auerbach, is owned by William Delia or Dana Rocheford and is trained by Delia. She has 14 wins in 33 starts, earnings of $324,651 and is coming off six consecutive wins, including this race last year. Handfull is by Comic Strip, out of the Roman Dancer mare Honoree Lady, was bred by Dr. & Mrs. William Gray, is owned by Team Green, Hollendorfer and Nakkasian and is trained by Jerry Hollendorfer. She has 15 wins in 34 starts, earnings of $325,170 and is coming off a win in the Mar. 27 March Madness Starter’s Handicap. She was eighth in this race last year. Elprado’s Heirloom is by Tannersmyman, out of the El Prado mare Checkthisgroove, was bred by Sarah... ...

Lawmakers on AHC Forum Agenda

WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 10, 2016) — Legislators who chair the United States Senate and House of Representatives Agricultural Committees are expected to speak at the American Horse Council National Issues Forum June 14 in Washington, D.C. Republican Sen. Pat Roberts of Kansas, chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee, is confirmed as the leadoff speaker. U.S. Rep. Mike Conaway of Texas, who chairs the House Agriculture Committee, has also been invited. “We would be very fortunate to have the chairmen of both the Senate and House Agriculture Committees address us,” AHC president Jay Hickey said May 9. “The $102 billion equine industry is an important sector of the agriculture community, not only when horses are in their breeding life, but also when they move into their racing, showing, work, or recreation careers. “The equine world is still regulated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture in terms of disease control, import/export, interstate movement, and research. The congressional agriculture committees are important to the horse industry.” The National Issues Forum will also feature... ...

Donn Luby Passes at 71

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 29, 2016) — Former trainer and Santa Anita Park stall manager Donn Luby died in his sleep April 26 from complications of cancer at the Life Care Center in Bridgeton, Mo. He was 71. An avid golfer, Luby, who frequently had a tobacco pipe in-hand, was a well-respected horseman and friend to many in Southern California’s large racing community. “He was a good guy,” trainer Jerry Fanning said. “He was a good stall man. He trained—did everything.” An assistant to Gary Jones in the late 1970s, Luby took over the training of Eleven Stitches in the spring of 1981 and sent him out to victory with Sandy Hawley aboard in the Hollywood Gold Cup (gr. I) that summer. Seven years later, he would go on to train Flying Julia, who won the Santa Margarita Handicap (gr. I) under Frank Olivares in 1988. “He was one wonderful person and a fair stall man,” said Santa Anita assistant starter Huey Barnes. “In that job, you have to... ...

Empire Way has First Winner

By Bloodhorse.com CYPRESS, Calif. (Apr. 29, 2016) — California stallion Empire Way got his first winner April 29 when his son Dutt Bart, out of Applaud Dubai, by Essence of Dubai, won a 4 1/2-furlong maiden special weight at Los Alamitos Race Course in his first start by 2 1/4 lengths. The final time was :52.07. A grade II-placed full brother to three-time champion Royal Delta, Empire Way stands at Lovacres Ranch in California for $5,000. Dutt Bart was bred by Lovacres Ranch owner Terry Lovingier and is co-owned by Lovingier and Albert Chou. The colt had been offered by Lovacres at the 2015 Barretts October yearling and horses of racing age sale where he was sold for $50,000 to agent Mike Harrington, who is Dutt Bart’s trainer. The colt is the first foal bred by Lovingier out of winner Applaud Dubai and is the mare’s second winner out of three foals of racing age. Applaud Dubai was a winner at 2 but found only modest success at the track. Her dam, Miss... ...

Golden Gate Turf Stakes PPs

Sunday, May 1, 2016 $100,000 Campanile Stakes (Golden State Series Stakes), Fillies – Three-Year-Olds (CA-Breds), One Mile (Turf). PPs: http://www.goldengatefields.com/sites/www.goldengatefields.com/files/incompass_ftp/SNPP/Campanile%20pps_0.pdf $100,000 Silky Sullivan Stakes (Golden State Series Stakes), Three-Year-Olds (CA-Breds), One Mile (Turf). PPs: http://www.goldengatefields.com/sites/www.goldengatefields.com/files/incompass_ftp/SNPP/Silky%20Sullivan%20pps.pdf ...

Altona Park in Riley Allison

SUNLAND PARK, N.M. (Apr. 26, 2016) – Altona Park is the lone California-bred entered in Tuesday’s $100,000 Riley Allison Stakes for 3-year-olds at Sunland Park. Altona Park is by Sapphire Cat, out of the Grand Slam mare Grandiosity, was bred by John Antonelli, is owned by Leo Ames and Peggy Rust and trained by Blake Rust. He has two wins in three starts, earnings of $8,916 and is coming off a sixth in an Apr. 12 allowance. ...

L.J.’s Awesome Girl in El Paso Times

SUNLAND PARK, N.M. (Apr. 26, 2016) — L.J.’s Awesome Girl is the lone California-bred entered in Tuesday’s $65,000 El Paso Times Stakes for 3-year-old fillies at Sunland Park. L.J.’s Awesome Girl is by Awesome Gambler, out of the In Excess mare Excessive Girl, was bred by Terry Lovingier, is owned by A and A Equine and EC Racing and is trained by Justin Evans. She has two wins in eight starts, earnings of $43,721 and is coming off a sixth in an Apr. 9 allowance. ...

CHRB Meeting Summary

From CHRB ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 25, 2016) — The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Thursday, April 21, at Golden Gate Fields. Chairman Chuck Winner presided. Vice Chair Richard Rosenberg and Commissioners Madeline Auerbach, Steve Beneto, and Jesse Choper also were in attendance. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link. In brief: · The Board approved a joint request by the California Authority of Racing Fairs (CARF) and San Joaquin County Fair to reallocate two weeks of race dates (September 21 through October 4, 2016) to the Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton after San Joaquin officials indicated they did not wish to run those dates in Stockton as previously allocated. · The Board approved for public notice various regulations and amendments requiring that all horses be microchipped by January 1, 2018, in order to race in California. · The Board approved a request by management and horsemen at Los Alamitos to immediately suspend authorization for the use... ...

Cal-bred First Winner for Creative Cause

By Bloodhorse.com CYPRESS, Calif. (Apr. 22, 2016) — First-time starter Milton Freewater got up in the final stride in the first race at Los Alamitos Race Course April 22 to become the first winner for grade I winner and classic-placed Creative Cause. A 7-year-old son of Giant’s Causeway out of grade I winner and millionaire California-bred Dream of Summer, by Siberian Summer, Creative Cause stands for a 2016 fee of $15,000 at Airdrie Stud near Midway, Ky. There are 86 2-year-olds in his first crop. Creative Cause is a full brother to Lambholm South Tampa Bay Derby (gr. II) winner Destin, a hopeful for the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I). Creative Cause posted a 4-2-3 career line from 10 starts and earned $1,039,000. At age 2, he captured the 2011 Norfolk Stakes (gr. I) and finished second the Del Mar Futurity (gr. I) and third in the Grey Goose Breeders’ Cup Juvenile (gr. I). At age 3, he took the 2012 San Felipe Stakes (gr. II) and... ...

OwnerView Taking Conference Registrations

From OwnerView ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 21, 2016) –Today OwnerView officially opened registration for the third edition of the Thoroughbred Owner Conference being held at Santa Anita Park, October 31 – November 3, 2016, the same week as the Breeders’ Cup World Championships. The upcoming conference promises to entertain attendees, to inform them about important issues related to Thoroughbred ownership, and to provide multiple opportunities for guests to network and socialize with industry leaders, speakers and other owners. The business panels, topics and speakers have been finalized, and this next conference is shaping up to be another great event for owners on every level. Some of the speakers invited are top industry trainers, jockeys and owners, including Bob Baffert, Richard Mandella, Art Sherman, Gary Stevens, Mike Smith, Laffit Pincay, Dean Reeves, Barbara Banke, and John Amerman. As an added bonus, on behalf of the Breeders’ Cup, you will receive one Grandstand Reserved seating ticket as part of your Thoroughbred Owner Conference registration for both Breeders’ Cup World Championships racing days on November... ...

CHRB Okays Reallocation of Fair Dates

By Bloodhorse.com ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 21, 2016) — Despite multiple board members expressing frustration with the way the process was handled, the California Horse Racing Board approved a reallocation of dates within the Northern California fair circuit April 21 during a meeting at Golden Gate Fields. The board approved a proposal that will move six race dates assigned to the San Joaquin County Fair in Stockton (Sept. 21-Oct. 4) to the Alameda County Fair in Pleasanton, which already has a meet scheduled for June 15-July 5. San Joaquin County Fair chief executive officer Kelly Olds said the 2015 meet at Stockton lost money, and the fair could not afford to run the meet in 2016. “The 2014 season was only marginally profitable for Stockton,” Olds said. “I can’t say that about the 2015 races. We lost money and our fair cannot stand to lose again. The race dates that have been allocated to Stockton come at a really bad time in our county. It’s harvest season, kids are back in school,... ...

Sharp Lost Bus in Great Lady M

CYPRESS, Calif. (Apr. 20, 2016) – Graded stakes winner Lost Bus is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $200,000 Grade II Great Lady M Stakes for fillies and mares at Los Alamitos. Lost Bus is by Bring the Heat, out of the Stravinsky mare Frysland, was bred by John Hagsma & Wesley Ward, is owned by Terry Lovingier and trained by Gary Sherlock. She has four wins in 12 starts, earnings of $302,818 and is coming off a win in a Mar. 11 optional claimer. ...

I Came to Party in Robert Hilton

CHARLES TOWN, W.Va. (Apr. 20, 2016) – I Came to Party is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Robert Hilton Memorial Stakes for 3-year-olds at Charles Town. I Came to Party is by Bold Chieftain, out of the Decarchy mare Onefunsonofagun, was bred by Ellen Jackson, Kevin Nish and Kim Nish, is owned by Ronald Clark and trained by Gerald Brooks. He has two wins in eight starts, earnings of $55,700 and is coming off a third in the Apr. 9 Federico Tesio Stakes. ...

Golden Gate Turf Extravaganza May 1

Click for flyer: https://ctba.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/goldengatefields-invitation.pdf ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 11, 2016) – Be a part of the California-bred Turf Extravaganza Day celebration at Golden Gate Fields on Sunday, May 1. The feature events will be the $100,000 Campanile Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-old fillies and the $100,000 Silky Sullivan Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-olds. Both will be raced at one mile on turf. California Thoroughbred Breeders Association members will be welcome at a hospitality area on the Players Patio from 1:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The CTBA member track pass will serve as complimentary admission to the hospitality area, where an appetizer buffet will be provided with a private cash bar. Members of the CTBA Board of Directors will be present for a meet-and-greet. The Cal-bred Turf Extravaganza Day will be held on closing day of Golden Gate’s Turf Festival. First post for the day’s racing card is 2:15 p.m. ...

‘Chrome Ties for Longines Top Spot

By Bloodhorse.com California Chrome , who easily won the world’s richest race this year when registering a 3 ¾-length victory despite his saddle slipping in the Dubai World Cup sponsored by Emirates Airline (UAE-I) March 26 at Meydan, shares the top spot in the April edition of the Longines World’s Best Racehorse Rankings. California Chrome, the 2014 Horse of the Year who has won all three of this starts this year, has received a 126 rating, which also was awarded to Winx, who stayed undefeated in seven Southern Hemisphere starts this season with her two-length victory in the Star Doncaster Mile (Aus-I) April 2 at Royal Randwick. ...

Poshsky, Soi Phet in Bertrando

CYPRESS, Calif. Apr. 13, 2016) – Graded winner Poshsky and multiple stakes winner Soi Phet are among the entries in Saturday’s $100,000 Bertrando Stakes for Golden State Series eligibles at Los Alamitos. Avanti Bello is by Include, out of the Mizzen Mast mare Masterful Lass, was bred by Lou Neve, is owned by Suarez or Keh or Richardson, et al and is trained by Doug O’Neill. He has three wins in 11 starts, earnings of $131,743 and is coming off an eighth in a Mar. 3 optional claimer. Zip the Monkey is by City Zip, out of the Bertrando mare Monkey Face, was bred by Donald Valpredo & Martin Jones, is owned by Valpredo, Button Stables or J Squared Holdings, et al and is trained by Jones. He has one win in five starts, earnings of $52,265 and is coming off an eighth in a Feb. 28 optional claimer. Awesome Return is by Decarchy, out of the Mr. Broad Blade mare Awesome Broad, was bred by Richard Kritzki, is owned... ...

San Onofre Enters Los Angeles

CYPRESS, Calif. (Apr. 13, 2016) – Graded winner San Onofre, stakes winner Raised a Secret and fellow California-breds Sir Kip and W. Giles are entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Grade III Los Angeles Handicap at Los Alamitos. Giles is by Swiss Yodeler, out of the Speightstown mare Laugh N Yodel, was bred by Heinz Steinmann, is owned by Tachycardia Stables and trained by Kristin Mulhall. He has seven wins in 25 starts, earnings of $178,450 and is coming off a three consecutive wins. Sir Kip is by Kelly Kip, out of the Yonaguska mare Lady Bean, was bred by Vinewood Farms, is owned by Santos Montemayor and is trained by Juan Aleman. He has three wins in eight starts, earnings of $59,992 and is coming off a win in a Feb. 12 allowance. Raised a Secret is by Songandaprayer, out of the Bernstein mare Sensitive Soul, was bred by Dahlberg Farms and is owned by Rodney Orr. He has five wins in 28 starts, earnings of $467,990 and is coming off... ...

Pacific Heat in Evening Jewel

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 6, 2016) – Stakes winner Pacific Heat leads a field of 10 in Saturday’s $200,000 Evening Jewel Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-old fillies at Santa Anita. Later My Love is by Lucky Pulpit, out of the Mr. Prospector mare Lavender Mine, was bred by owners Mr. and Mrs. Larry Williams and is trained by Jeff Bonde. She has one win in four starts, earnings of $70,945 and is coming off an eighth in a Mar. 6 optional claimer. Skye Diamonds is by First Dude, out of the Johannesburg mare Exonerated, was bred by Dizney Double Diamond, is owned by Donald Dizney and is trained by Mike Machowsky. She has two wins in six starts, earnings of $88,330 and is coming off a Mar. 6 optional claiming win. Shy Carmelita is by Grazen, out of the Malek mare Malley Girl, was bred by owner Nick Alexander and trained by Phil D’Amato. She has one win in two starts, earnings of $40,560 and is coming off a... ...

Echo Eddie Draws Nine Cal-breds

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 6, 2016) – Stakes winner Gold Rush Dancer is part of a field of nine entered in Saturday’s $200,000 Echo Eddie Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-olds at Santa Anita. Demonslayer is by Tale of the Cat, out of the Matthews Keep mare Impressive Miss, was bred by Barbara J. Rank Perry, is owned by Cicero Farms and trained by Richard Baltas. He has one win in three starts, earnings of $41,720 and is coming off a sixth in the Jan. 30 California Cup Derby. Tough It Out is by Grazen, out of the Marquetry mare Mark Set Go, was bred by owner Nick Alexander and is trained by Phil D’Amato. He has one win in seven starts, earnings of $102,790 and is coming off a fourth in a Mar. 25 allowance. Record Highs is by Heatseeker, out of the High Brite mare Super High, was bred by owner Harris Farms and is trained by Carla Gaines. He has one win in seven starts, earnings of... ...

Smokey Image Shoots for Santa Anita Derby

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 6, 2016) – Smokey Image is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $1 million Grade I Santa Anita Derby for 3-year-olds. Smokey Image is by Southern Image, out of the Free House mare Special Smoke, was bred by C Punch Ranch, is owned by Irvin Racing Stable and trained by Carla Gaines. He has six wins in seven starts, earnings of $443,100 and is coming off his first loss, a fifth in the Mar. 12 San Felipe. ...

What a View Returns in Thunder Road

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 6, 2016) – Grade I winner What a View is one of four California-breds entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Thunder Road Stakes at Santa Anita. Poshsky is by Vronsky, out of the Bold Badgett mare Pinky’s Posh, was bred by Old English Rancho and Berumen, is owned by Barber, Silver Ranch Stable or Wachtel and is trained by Peter Miller. He has six wins in 25 starts, earnings of $340,665 and is coming off an eighth in the Feb. 27 Sensational Star. McHeat is by Unusual Heat, out of the Half a Year mare Style of the Year, was bred by owner Madeline Auerbach and is trained by Barry Abrams. He has three wins in 10 starts, earnings of $132,420 and is coming off a fifth in a Mar. 20 optional claimer. Cool Green is by Global Hunter, out of the In Excess mare Excessive Susan, was bred by owner Ed Delaney and is trained by Doug O’Neill. He has one win in eight starts, earnings of $79,790... ...

How Unusual in Providencia

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 6, 2016) – How Unusual is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $150,000 Grade III Providencia Stakes for 3-year-old fillies at Santa Anita. How Unusual is the Unusual Heat, out of the Bartok mare Veela, was bred by owners Madeline Auerbach and Barry Abrams and is trained by Abrams. She has one win in three starts, earnings of $44,370 and is coming off an eighth in the Mar. 12 China Doll. ...

I Came to Party at Laurel

LAUREL, Md. (Apr. 6, 2016) – I Came to Party is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Frederico Tesio Stakes for 3-year-olds at Laurel Park. I Came to Party is by Bold Chieftain, out of the Decarchy mare Onefunsonofagun, was bred by Ellen Jackson, Kevin Nish and Kim Nish, is owned by Ronald Clark and trained by Gerald Brooks. He has two wins in seven starts, earnings of $45,700 and is coming off a March 6 claiming win. ...

CARF’s Korby to Retire Nov. 1

By Bloodhorse.com SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Apr. 5, 2016) — California Authority of Racing Fairs announced April 5 that executive director Christopher Korby will retire as of Nov. 1 after 29 years. During his years of service, Korby was instrumental in leading the organization through an era of significant growth, CARF said in a release, noting he launched simulcast operations for live horse racing from fairs and played a key role in establishing California’s state-wide satellite wagering network. Korby has served as CARF’s executive director for 16 years. “We’ve been fortunate to have Mr. Korby with us for so many years,” said John Alkire, chairman of the CARF board of directors. “He’s brought foresight, energy and innovation to his service here. His contributions have been invaluable.” “I’d like to express my appreciation to our board of directors for the opportunity to serve for all these years,” Korby said. “It’s been both challenging and rewarding to be a part of the racing industry and the fair industry during years of dynamic changes to... ...

Sunday Rules Enters Madison

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Apr. 5, 2016) – Sunday Rules is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $300,000 Grade I Madison Stakes for fillies and mares at Keeneland. Sunday Rules is by Tribal Rule, out of the General Meeting mare Sunday Dress, was bred by owner Nick Alexander and is trained by Phil D’Amato. She has eight wins in nine starts, earnings of $534,840 and is coming off a three consecutive wins, most recently the Jan. 30 Donald Valpredo California Cup Sprint. ...

Jockey Club Awards Applications Online

From The Jockey Club Applications for The Jockey Club Thoroughbred Incentive Program’s (T.I.P.’s) two annual awards, the Thoroughbred of the Year Award and the Young Rider of the Year Award, are now available online at tjctip.com. The T.I.P. Thoroughbred of the Year Award recognizes a Thoroughbred that has excelled in a non-competitive career, such as equine-assisted therapy or police work. The award includes a $5,000 grant to the non-profit organization associated with the horse or, if no organization is associated with the horse, to a horse-related charity chosen by The Jockey Club. The T.I.P. Young Rider of the Year Award recognizes young riders, 18 or under as of January 1, 2016, who own or lease a Thoroughbred for use in 4-H, Pony Club or other activities. The winner(s) will be determined through an essay contest with a total award of $5,000 that can be applied to the college of their choice or to their participation in an event that furthers their involvement with horses. Thoroughbreds registered with The Jockey Club are... ...

Hovdey on Art Sherman

By Jay Hovdey, DRF.com Two young horses were strutting their stuff for prospective buyers last Wednesday at Del Mar, where Barretts was holding its sale of 2-year-olds, and there was David Lanzman, watching one of them walk. Lanzman knows what it’s like to buy a champion at Barretts, like he did with Squirtle Squirt in 2000. Having seen enough, he turned to the gathered group and pointed to the guy who was eyeballing the other horse. “I’ll do whatever he says to do,” Lanzman said. Everybody laughed because “he” was Art Sherman, making his first domestic appearance since winning the $10 million World Cup the previous Saturday in Dubai, and right now, everybody in horse racing wants to have whatever Art is having. At that particular moment, it was a jet-lagged high of delirious satisfaction over winning the world’s richest race, complemented by a steady gauntlet of backslaps, handshakes, and kisses bestowed upon the 79-year-old trainer by his Southern California constituency. Too bad he wasn’t running for something. Casually dapper... ...

Toledo Eddie wins Stud Muffin Stakes

OZONE PARK, N.Y. (Apr. 2, 2016) – Toledo Eddie, an Idaho-bred son of California stallion Ministers Wild Cat, won Saturday’s $73,500 Stud Muffin Stakes at Aqueduct. Toledo Eddie, bred by Billingsley Ranch and owned by trainer David Jacobson, ran the mile in 1:37.43 and won by 2 ¼ lengths. He has 14 wins in 42 starts and earnings of $440,551. ...

Sweetrayofsunshine Wins Xtra Heat

OZONE PARK, N.Y. (Apr. 2, 2016) – California-bred Sweetrayofsunshine took command turning for home and won Saturday’s $70,000 Xtra Heat Stakes for fillies and mares at Aqueduct. Sweetrayofsunshine is by Benchmark, out of the Cee’s Tizzy mare Tialinga, was bred by Black Diamond Racing and is owned by trainer David Jacobson. She has 11 wins in 24 starts, earnings of $276,462 and was coming off a second in a Mar. 13 allowance at Santa Anita. ...

Sweetrayofsunshine

Sweetrayofsunshine wins $70,000 Xtra Heat Stakes. ...

Cal-bred Sells for $150,000

By DRF.com DEL MAR, Calif. (Apr. 1, 2016) — The unraced colt Snow Proof has proven to be popular at sales in California in the last year. Last August, Snow Proof was the most expensive hip at the Northern California Yearling Sale, selling for $72,000 to John Brocklebank, agent for Dickman Legacy Ranch. Wednesday, Snow Proof was purchased for $150,000 by Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert at the Barretts March select sale of 2-year-olds in-training at Del Mar. Snow Proof was the most expensive hip among the 16 California-breds listed in the catalog of the one-day sale. Of those, eight were withdrawn and five sold for an average of $89,000. Three were listed as bought back. The overall sale averaged $124,558. The leading hip at the sale was a colt by The Factor who was purchased for $460,000 and is bound for Japan. Baffert signed the sale ticket, as agent, for Snow Proof, indicating the colt will race for one of his clients. Snow Proof is by Idiot Proof... ...

Margie Lambert Passes

LOS ANGELES, Calif. (Mar. 31, 2016) — Marjorie (Margie) Lambert owner of Ren-Mar Thoroughbreds, Inc., died March 23 at her home in Los Angeles. A Celebration of the Life of Lambert will be held on Monday April 4, at 2:30 p.m., at Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills. Reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations in memory of Marjorie D. Lambert be sent to United Pegasus Foundation in Tehachapi or The Sweet Water Ranch in Chatsworth. ...

Golden Gate to Hold Turf Festival

By Bloodhorse.com ALBANY, Calif. (Mar. 31, 2016) — Golden Gate Fields will offer increased purses, free shipping to and from Santa Anita Park, and guaranteed late Pick 4 pools during its inaugural three-week Turf Festival. Golden Gate will be the only track in California with turf racing from April 14 through May 1, as Santa Anita installs a new grass course. During that time an extra $125,000 will allocated to turf races. BLOOD-HORSE STAFF: Santa Anita to Install New Turf Course Free shipping from Santa Anita to Golden Gate will be provided during the Turf Festival. Bob Hubbard Horse Transportation will have two vans going north and two vans going south every week during the event. “The Golden Gate Fields Turf Festival will benefit horsemen throughout California by bolstering purses in the North and giving Southern California horsemen a place to run their grass horses,” said Joe Morris, senior vice president of West Coast operations for The Stronach Group, which owns both Santa Anita and Golden Gate. “It’s our goal... ...

Del Mar Announces Stakes Schedule

From DMTC Publicity DEL MAR, Calif. (Mar. 30, 2016) — Del Mar will present 43 stakes events during its 39-day season worth a total of $7.55 million, highlighted by the seaside course’s ‘piece de resistance’ – the $1-million TVG Pacific Classic, scheduled for Saturday, August 20. The track’s 77th summer gathering alongside the blue Pacific will take place from Friday, July 15 through Labor Day Monday, September 5. The shore oval’s 33 major, or “advertised,” stakes again will carry purses ranging from $100,000 to $1,000,000, while its 10 “overnight” stakes each will be worth $75,000. Further, the racing headquarters “where the turf meets the surf” will provide its horsemen with projected purses of more than $525,000 a day, the richest incentives of their kind in California and among the most lucrative of any race meet in America. Del Mar will present 21 graded stakes in all – six of them (including the TVG Pacific Classic) Grade I, 11 valued at Grade II and four at Grade III. The Classic, run at... ...

Joe LaCombe

See the full story featured in our printed magazine online By Emily Shields, condensed version: Affable Joe LaCombe has been around some of the best in racing, including his family’s own 1997 Horse of the Year Favorite Trick. Now the San Diego resident is enjoying a newer venture — standing stallions in California — while still managing the racing and breeding strings of Joseph LaCombe Stables. The stable is named for Joseph LaCombe Sr., who resides in Florida at age 83 and is still in regular communication with his son. “He still tries to do too much,” the younger LaCombe lamented, “but we talk almost every day and review the horses.” The elder LaCombe entered the sport by way of a partner at his auditing company, and went to purchase a juvenile son of Phone Trick for $100,000 at the 1997 Ocala Breeders’Sales Company February sale. Turned over to trainer Patrick Byrne, Favorite Trick reeled off eight consecutive victories that season, including the $200,000 Hopeful Stakes (gr. I) at Saratoga and the... ...

NTRA Annual Report Available

From NTRA WASHINGTON, D.C. (Mar. 30, 2016) — Click here to view the 2015 NTRA Legislative Action Campaign Annual Report Features of the report include: · Federal legislative summary · List of 2015 contributors to the Legislative Action Campaign · Videos explaining NTRA legislative fundraising and advocacy · Membership benefit information for contributors The NTRA thanks all individuals, farms, racing stables/partnerships, bloodstock services, sales companies and industry organizations who contributed to one or more of the NTRA’s legislative fundraising programs. This support allows the NTRA’s federal legislative team to represent the horse racing and breeding industry in Washington, D.C. and is crucial to the team’s success there. ...

Ralis Takes Spin in Spiral Stakes

FLORENCE, Ky. (Mar. 30, 2016) – Grade I winner Ralis is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $500,000 Horseshoe Casino Cincinnati Spiral Stakes at Turfway Park. Ralis is by Square Eddie, out of the Ten Most Wanted mare Silar Rules, was bred by owner Reddam Racing and is trained by Doug O’Neill. He has two wins in eight starts, earnings of $274,323 and is coming off a 10th in the Mar. 19 Rebel Stakes. ...

Aotearoa in San Simeon Stakes

ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 30, 2016) – Aotearoa is by lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $100,000 San Simeon Stakes at Santa Anita. Aotearoa is by Good Journey, out of the Lil Tyler mare Madera Royal, was bred by owner Paul Viskovich and is trained by Leonard Powell. He has four wins in 23 starts, earnings of $247,595 and is coming off a third in a Mar. 19 optional claimer. ...

Pepper Crown in Santana Mile

ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 30, 2016) – Multiple graded winner Pepper Crown and fellow California-bred Songforjohnmichael are entered in Saturday’s $75,000 Santana Mile Stakes at Santa Anita. Songforjohnmichael is by Songandaprayer, out of the Quiet American mare Silent Demand, was bred by Kathleen Kennedy, is owned by RL Stables and trained by Dan Hendricks. He has four wins in eight starts, earnings of $135,230 and is coming off a three consecutive wins. Pepper Crown is by Peppered Cat, out of the Crowning Storm mare Crown This Lady, was bred by Alex Paszkeicz, is owned by Steve Moger and trained by Ed Moger Jr. He has nine wins in 31 starts, earnings of $409,752 and is coming off a second in a Feb. 28 optional claimer. ...

Sweetrayofsunshine Enters Xtra Heat

OZONE PARK, N.Y. (Mar. 30, 2016) – Sweetrayofsunshine is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $70,000 Xtra Heat Stakes for fillies and mares at Aqueduct. Sweetrayofsunshine is by Benchmark, out of the Cee’s Tizzy mare Tialinga, was bred by Black Diamond Racing and is owned by trainer David Jacobson. She has 10 wins in 23 starts, earnings of $234,462 and is coming off a second in a Mar. 13 allowance at Santa Anita. ...

Can Can Babe in Sis City

OZONE PARK, N.Y. (Mar. 30, 2016) – Can Can Babe is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $60,000 Sis City Stakes for fillies and mares at Aqueduct. Can Can Babe is by McCann’s Mojave, out of the Johannesburg mare Book’em Babe, was bred by Mr. and Mrs. Larry Williams and is owned by trainer David Jacobson. She has seven wins in 18 starts, earnings of $166,576 and is coming off a three consecutive claiming wins in California. ...

Cal-bred Pair at Sunland Park

SUNLAND PARK, N.M. (Mar. 30, 2016) – California-breds Whine for Wine and Real Heat are entered in Monday’s $75,000 Winsham Lad Stakes at Sunland Park. Whine for Wine is by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Jump Start mare Mrs. Began, was bred by owner Tommy Town Thoroughbreds and is trained by Johnnie Nall. He has three wins in 18 starts, earnings of $175,500 and is coming off a fifth in the Mar. 20 Bill Thomas Memorial. Real Heat is by Unusual Heat, out of the Ole mare Chi Chi Nette, was bred by Madeline Auerbach and Barry Abrams, is owned by Class Racing Stable and trained by Bret Hone. He has five wins in 29 starts, earnings of $172,246 and is coming off a win in a Mar. 5 starter’s allowance. ...

The Factor Colt Tops Barretts

By Bloodhorse.com DEL MAR, Calif. (Mar. 30, 2016) — A son of first-crop sire The Factor who previewed with a furlong work in :09 4/5, brought $460,000 to top the Barretts select 2-year-old sale at Del Mar March 30. A daughter of Smart Strike was the highest-priced filly at $450,000. The sale topper is headed to Japan, while the Smart Strike filly will remain in California. Dr. Riki Takahashi, who has been successful buying future stakes winners out of the Barretts March sale, purchased the colt by The Factor, while trainer Bob Baffert bought the Smart Strike filly. The sale averaged $124,558 for 43 sold, down 8.8% over 2015, when 45 averaged $136,622. This year Barretts held the sale at Del Mar in late March, whereas the corresponding sale last year was held at Fairplex in Pomona in late February. With 62 withdrawals, the sale grossed $5,356,000 in 2016, compared to $6,148,000 in 2015. “We were a little stronger on the top this year, and the higher-end horses did well,”... ...

Taylor Made’s Big Bet on ‘Chrome

By Sid Fernando + Observations What a change in the perception and accomplishments of California Chrome from a year ago, huh? Second in the Dubai World Cup, he was then taken from the popular trainer that had developed him and sent to Newmarket to prepare for … well, you know the strange and unflattering story that ended with Chrome’s return to the States amidst disharmony and social media outrage, etc., and news that he’d suffered a bone bruise and was done. Enter Taylor Made Farm, which bought out one of the bickering partners, Steve Coburn — a minority shareholder with a Trumpesque voice that was prone to braggadocio and was the ownership face of the horse until majority owner Perry Martin decided to call the shots, including the failed attempt to race in Europe — to ostensibly stand the horse at stud. But after vet reports indicated the Derby and Preakness winner by Lucky Pulpit would be okay to race again after some rest and relaxation on the farm, a new chapter... ...

2-Year-Olds Sizzle in Barretts Preview

From Barretts DEL MAR, Calif. (Mar. 28, 2016) –With a cool breeze wafting over the Del Mar racetrack, a half-dozen 2-year-olds zipped a furlong in :09 4/5 during the March 28 under tack preview for the upcoming Barretts select 2-year-old sale. The auction is set for March 30 at Del Mar, beginning at 2 p.m. PDT. “The 2-year-olds just loved the surface,” said Kim Lloyd, general manager of Barretts Sales. “The colts and fillies were out there having a big time. It’s a very kind track that the horses were getting a hold of very, very well.” Three colts and three fillies each turned in :09 4/5 for an eighth of a mile breeze, and they came from four different consignors. All six had gone through yearling sales the previous year. The most expensive pinhook of the group was Hip 71, a City Zip colt from John Brocklebank’s consignment. Vern Dickman’s Dickman Legacy Ranch bought the youngster for $165,000 at last year’s Keeneland September yearling sale. The Kentucky-bred colt is... ...

‘Chrome Sets N.A. Earnings Record

By DRF.com DUBAI, U.A.E. (Mar. 27, 2016) — California Chrome had a quiet Sunday at Meydan Racecourse in the United Arab Emirates a day after his dramatic win in the $10 million Dubai World Cup. Alan Sherman, assistant trainer to his father, trainer Art Sherman, said in an email that California Chrome “came out of his race great.” California Chrome won the Dubai World Cup at 1 1/4 miles on dirt by 3 3/4 lengths in a stellar field. He won even though his saddle slipped, creating an awkward situation for jockey Victor Espinoza and causing concern for his backers in the stretch. The saddle was visibly farther down California Chrome’s back when he reached the wire than it was at the start. The win was worth $6 million for owners Perry Martin and Taylor Made Farms, who race as California Chrome LLC. The 2014 Horse of the Year, California Chrome has won 12 of 21 starts and earned $12,532,650, a record for a North American-based Thoroughbred. Curlin, the Horse... ...

Sheer Pleasure

Sheer Pleasure wins $100,000 Dream of Summer Stakes. ...

Sheer Pleasure Takes Dream of Summer

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (March 27, 2016)–In a determined stretch drive, Sheer Pleasure, under Martin Garcia, wore down pacesetter Swissarella and held off favored Kiss At Midnight to prevail by a half length in Sunday’s $100,000 Dream of Summer Stakes for Golden State Series eligible fillies and mares at Santa Anita. Conditioned by Phil D’Amato, Sheer Pleasure got one mile in 1:36.82. “She has a lot of speed, you can put her wherever you want to,” said Garcia, who was a close fourth with the 4-year-old California-bred daughter of Birdonthewire mid-way around the far turn. “I was pretty lucky to be able to ride her again today. They didn’t give me any instructions because I know her well, so I took advantage of that fact.” Off at 4-1 in a field of nine California-bred or sired fillies and mares, Sheer Pleasure, who was bred by Madera Thoroughbreds, is owned by Little Red Feather Racing and R/M Racing, paid $10.20, $4.60 and $3.20. “The Cal-bred program is so rewarding,”... ...

‘Chrome Wins Despite Loose Tack

The Racing Post DUBAI, U.A.E. (Mar. 26, 2016) — Victor Espinoza’s saddle may have slipped but California Chrome had the talent to ensure his connections’ dreams of finally landing the world’s richest race did not go the same way at Meydan on Saturday. As if defying a wide draw was not enough of a challenge for last year’s runner-up, Espinoza was forced to send the five-year-old for home as he felt his saddle retreating down his mount’s back. Trainer Art Sherman had boasted his Kentucky Derby winner was five-lengths better than last year and so it proved, as California Chrome streaked clear in the straight to land a decisive and impressive win. Mubtaahij bounced back to form to finish second, beaten three and three quarters of a length, with Hoppertunity running third for America’s Bob Baffert. “He has done everything right, it was perfect,” said Espinoza. The rider added: “Sometimes it’s better to stay a little bit further wide than being stuck inside but everything went well. “I sent him... ...

Sherman, Chrome Keep Espinoza Rolling

By DRF.com DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – Has anyone asked Victor Espinoza about bringing about world peace, ending hunger, turning lead into gold? Because Espinoza the last 23 months has done things scarcely to be believed – winning two Kentucky Derbies, two Preaknesses, one Triple Crown, a Breeders’ Cup Classic – and now a Dubai World Cup. And the horse that took Espinoza to the top of this mountain Saturday night at Meydan Racecourse, California Chrome, added another chapter to his fairy-tale career, setting a track record and making short work of an outstanding field while becoming the richest American racehorse ever. California Chrome won by 3 3/4 lengths over Mubtaahij, and it didn’t even seem that close, but Chrome’s beloved 76-year-old trainer, Art Sherman, a jockey for 23 years, wasn’t taking any chances. “Oh I was riding that horse down the lane!” Sherman said. “I felt like I was back in the saddle again.” While Sherman imagined himself into a saddle, Espinoza worried he was losing his actual one.... ...

California Chrome

California Chrome wins $10 million Grade I Dubai World Cup. ...

‘Chrome is King of the World Cup

By DRF.com DUBAI, U.A.E. (Mar. 27, 2016) –California-bred California Chrome, the 2014 Horse of the Year, won Saturday’s $10 million Dubai World Cup at Meydan Racecourse despite a wide trip throughout the 1 1-4 miles on dirt. Ridden by Victor Espinoza, California Chrome broke from post 11 in a field of 12 and raced three-wide and later four-wide while stalking the pace. In early stretch, Espinoza guided California Chrome to the lead with a four-wide move and got an immediate response when the 5-year-old pulled away from his rivals. He won by approximately four lengths. Mubtaahij, who finished eighth in the 2015 Kentucky Derby and fourth in the Belmont Stakes last June, closed well on the inside to finish second clear of Hoppertunity, the winner of the Grade 2 San Antonio Stakes at SAnta Anita last month. Special Fighter finished fourth. Frosted, the winner of the Grade 2 Pennsylvania Derby last September and Round Two of the Maktoum Challenge in Dubai on Feb. 4, was unplaced in a race in... ...

CHRB Meeting Summary

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, CA – The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Thursday, March 24, at Cal Expo. Vice Chairman Richard Rosenberg presided. Commissioners Madeline Auerbach, Steve Beneto, and Jesse Choper also were in attendance. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link. In brief: The Board approved the Sahara Dunes Casino (Lake Elsinore Hotel) to accept wagers on horse racing. Ten other minisatellites already are operating within California private businesses, such as card cards, sports bars, and restaurants, so this will be the 11th. Wagering also is offered at 29 other racetracks and simulcast facilities throughout the state. The Board approved for public notice a proposed regulatory amendment to both encourage the proper use of the whip and reduce its use in harness racing by, for example, prohibiting drivers from using the whip more than three times in succession without giving the horse a chance to respond. A similar rule governing use of the riding crop already... ...

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