From Santa Anita Publicity
CYPRESS, Calif. (Feb. 8, 2014) — California Chrome, seeking to become the first California-bred to win the Kentucky Derby since Decidedly in 1962, worked towards his ultimate goal Saturday morning at Los Alamitos, going four furlongs in 48 seconds under regular rider Victor Espinoza.
“Perfect,” is how trainer Art Sherman described the move for the chestnut son of Lucky Pulpit, owned and bred by Martin Perry of Yuba City, California, and Steven Coburn of Wellington, Nevada.
“He went in 48, just breezing,” Sherman continued. “Espinoza said he went really nice.”
In eight career starts, California Chrome has faced open company twice, finishing fifth in the Willard Proctor Memorial Stakes at Hollywood Park last June, and sixth, beaten only two lengths, in the Grade I Del Mar Futurity on Sept. 4.
He daylighted Cal-breds in his last two races, winning the King Glorious by 6 ¼ lengths and the California Cup Derby by 5 ½ lengths. Next up: the Grade II San Felipe Stakes at Santa Anita on March 8.
“He may be a contender for the Derby,” Sherman said. “You don’t know. The next step will prove where he belongs.”
Meanwhile, Team Sherman is enjoying the exposure the colt is drawing. “We were well-treated at Los Alamitos,” Sherman said. “They welcomed us with open arms. Getting this publicity is cool. It’s great for the horse and great for racing.”