Wake Up Nick Takes Juvenile

Jun 23, 2014 Posted by CTBA In News

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (June 22, 2014)—Trainer Doug O’Neill, owner Paul Reddam and jockey Mario Gutierrez had another on Sunday at Santa Anita. Another stakes win that is, as Gutierrez guided California-bred Wake Up Nick to a gutty three quarter length tally in the $125,000 Santa Anita Juvenile, as the chestnut colt by Cindago scurried 5 ½ furlongs in 1:04.28 while withstanding the late charge of Story to Tell and Joe Talamo. A 9 ¼ length first-out maiden winner versus statebreds on May 1, Wake Up Nick bested five 2-year-old rivals, including even money favorite Holiday Camp, who never threatened and finished last, beaten 6 ½ lengths. Winners of the 2012 Santa Anita Derby, Kentucky Derby and Preakness with I’ll Have Another, O’Neill, Reddam and Gutierrez served notice they’re back with another talented juvenile. “That was nice,” said O’Neill. “There’s nowhere to run when you win early at the meet like that and to try and keep him to maintain his sharpness as long as we had, it... ...

Race Betting in California Increases

By DRF.com CYPRESS, Calif. – All-sources mutuel handle on all California racetracks, including Quarter Horse and harness, showed an increase of almost 3 percent for the year through May, according to Rick Baedeker, the executive director of the California Horse Racing Board. During a report at the outset of Thursday’s monthly racing board meeting, Baedeker said Thoroughbred racing at the major tracks is up almost 5 percent for the year through May, but night racing – Quarter Horses and lower-level Thoroughbreds at Los Alamitos and the harness racing in Sacramento – is down 12 percent, with 10 percent fewer racing days than last year. Baedeker said handle on Thoroughbred races had shown an increase of almost 14 percent in May, with account wagering through the Internet leading the way. “We’ve seen a significant increase in business in account wagering for the entire year,” he said. Baedeker said handle at the night meetings was down 1 percent in May, with three fewer racing days compared with 2013. ◗ Mutuel handle at... ...

‘Chrome Returns to Harris Farms

COALINGA, Calif. (June 20, 2014) — Double Classic winner California Chrome returned to his Harris Farms birthplace this week for a month of rest and recuperation. HRTV visited and produced this clip: http://www.hrtv.com/videos/california-chrome-arrives-at-harris-farm/ ...

Los Alamitos Dates Confirmed

By DRF.com CYPRESS, Calif. (June 19, 2014) – The California Horse Racing Board on Thursday approved the transfer of the Fairplex Park meeting at the Los Angeles County Fair to Los Alamitos starting in September, a decision that ends 71 years of live racing at the Pomona racetrack. By a vote of 5-0, the racing board approved the transfer of 11 days of racing from Sept. 5-21. A formal application for the race meeting will be heard by the racing board later this summer. Officials with Fairplex Park and Los Alamitos began discussions in the spring about relocating the meeting. At the time, Fairplex Park officials said running a live race meeting at the county fairgrounds was no longer viable. The racing board’s decision gives Los Alamitos a third Thoroughbred race meeting this year. The track will run an eight-day meeting July 3-13 and a three-week meeting in December. Those race meetings replace dates previously run at Hollywood Park, which closed last December. The subject of transferring the Fairplex Park meeting... ...

Hovdey on California Chrome

By Jay Hovdey, DRF.com COALINGA, Calif. (June 19, 2014) — The sights along Interstate 5 in California’s Central Valley near Fresno include almond orchards, cow pastures, and acres upon acres of barren agricultural ground, rendered fallow by the West’s terrible drought. There are hidden treasures, to be sure – a reservoir here, a winery there – but for the next month and a half, travelers on that stretch of highway will be oblivious to the real main attraction, with America’s most famous race horse living the life of Riley just a few miles off the main road. California Chrome arrived Wednesday at the horse division of Harris Farms. The occasion marked one year, three months, and 13 days after General Manager Dave McGlothlin, farm trainer Per Antonsen, and the rest of the John Harris crew bade farewell to the white-trimmed chestnut with the wide blaze as a 2-year-old March 5, 2013, bound for the Hollywood Park stable of Art and Alan Sherman. McGlothlin recalls they had high hopes for the... ...

Hovdey on Oak Tree at Pleasanton

By Jay Hovdey, DRF.com PLEASANTON, Calif. (June 18, 2014) — The rest of the Thoroughbred world is forgiven if it views the current state of the California racing and training landscape as an elaborate game of pick-up sticks, in which all the pieces are gathered together, then tossed on the table, to be played wherever they lay. Santa Anita Park is squeezing out the last two weeks of its first marathon meet, during which it was able to leverage the Triple Crown appearances of local hero California Chrome into three great days, but not much else. Fairplex Park management wants out of the horse-racing business – the disposition of its dates was on the California Horse Racing Board agenda this week – while Los Alamitos wants in, big time, and continues to build barns to house the stables soon to be displaced at both Fairplex and Santa Anita, which will be closing soon in order to renovate its main track for the fifth time in the last eight years. Don’t... ...

Cal-bred Sells for $220,000

OCALA, Fla. (June 17, 2014) – A California-bred colt by Artie Schiller sold for $220,000 at Tuesday’s opening session of the Ocala Breeders’ Sales Company’s 2-Year-Olds in Training Sale. The colt, bred by David Newcomb, was consigned by Eddie Woods, agent, and purchased by Conquest Stables. Out of the unraced Avenue of Flags mare Sookloozy, he was a $95,000 pinhook out of the Barretts October Yearling Sale. ...

DRF.com on Oak Tree at Pleasanton

By DRF.com PLEASANTON, Calif. (June 17, 2014) — Thursday marks the start of a new era in Northern California racing, as Oak Tree at Pleasanton becomes a reality with the first day of racing at the Alameda County Fair. The Oak Tree Racing Association, the not-for-profit group that has provided high-quality racing and millions of dollars of support to the industry – “horsemen helping horsemen” is its motto – as well as the local community, arrives at the oldest one-mile racetrack in America. The group has been looking for a home since Santa Anita ended ties with Oak Tree following the 2009 meet. Chris Korby, the executive director of the California Authority of Racing Fairs, approached Sherwood Chillingworth, Oak Tree’s director and executive vice president, following a California Horse Racing Board meeting one year ago. “Chris grabbed me by the shoulder and asked, ‘Have you ever thought of coming to Northern California?’ ” Chillingworth said. Oak Tree, CARF, and the Alameda County Fair began meeting, and California Horse Racing Board... ...

Stryker PhD Wins Budweiser

From Emerald Downs Publicity AUBURN, Wash. (June 15, 2014) – Using a strong closing kick, Stryker Phd made a triumphant return to action Sunday at Emerald Downs. The Washington-bred son of California stallion Bertrando, runner-up in the 2013 Longacres Mile, Stryker Phd drew clear for a 3 ¼-length victory in stakes-record time in the $50,000 Budweiser Handicap for 3-year-olds and up. Ridden by Leslie Mawing at 119 lbs., Stryker Phd ran one mile in 1:34.15—breaking the mark shared by Westsideclyde and R. Associate—and paid $10.80, $6 and $4.60. Larry Ross, who took over training duties from Margo Lloyd this spring, now conditions Stryker Phd for owners Jim and Mona Hour of Bellevue, Wash. Mr. Bowling, ridden by David G. Lopez at 118 lbs., finished second and paid $5.40 and $4.20. Canadian shipper Shooting Jacket, a 29-to-1 long shot ridden by Eliska Kubinova at 116 lbs, rallied to finish third and paid $15 to show. Jebrica, the defending champion and 3-to-1 betting favorite, finished fourth, followed by Twistrgrips, Dontmesswithkitten, Hudson Landing,... ...

Sagebrush Queen Wins Desert Stormer

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (June 15, 2014)—With 4-5 favorite My Sweet Addiction drifting out badly turning for home, longshot California-bred Sagebrush Queen shot through a large opening at the rail a quarter mile out and went on to win Sunday’s $75,000 added Desert Stormer Stakes at Santa Anita by one length, covering six furlongs under Edwin Maldonado in 1:09.75. Trained by Jorge Gutierrez, California-bred Sagebrush Queen was making her first start in a stakes and was the biggest price in a field of five fillies and mares at 16-1. “I saw My Sweet Addiction was having trouble on the far turn and literally blew the turn and she took the other filly (Doinghardtimeagain) with her so that helped me a lot,” said Maldonado. “At first I thought he (Mike Smith, aboard My Sweet Addiction) was going to shut the hole down at the rail, but then he went and did the opposite blowing the turn. She was certainly the one to beat today.” A 4-year-old filly by Unbridled... ...

Renovation for Santa Anita Track

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (June 15, 2014) –Santa Anita has announced that its one mile main track will undergo a major renovation beginning July 11 that will result in the track transitioning to a single-source material consisting of highly coveted El Segundo Sand, a natural soil that will ensure balanced drainage during periods of wet weather and uniform, safe cushion year ’round. “Beginning July 11, we’re going to take out the existing surface and go down to the base of the track,” said Santa Anita Track Superintendent Dennis Moore. “At that point, we’ll survey the existing base and ensure we’re meeting all specifications relative to slope and grade. “We’re going to be moving 20,000-plus yards of material and we anticipate this process is going to take about four or five weeks. We’re very fortunate to have been able to locate this soil which is currently being excavated due to construction projects at LAX. “El Segundo Sand is naturally occurring and we won’t have to mix it with any... ...

Big Macher in Comeback Drill

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (June 15, 2014) — Big Macher, who went on to capture the Grade II Potrero Grande Stakes after being claimed by Richard Baltas for $20,000, worked four furlongs Sunday in a snappy 46.80, just a tick off the fastest drill of 63 at that distance on Father’s Day morning. The bullets were recorded by both Bold Decision and Spirit of Ten at 46.60. “Beautiful” is how Baltas termed the move. “He was very eager and he wanted to work.” Big Macher went the first half-mile in 23 3/5 and galloped out five furlongs in 1:00 3/5. “I don’t think he’ll make the Triple Bend (a Grade I, $300,000 stakes at seven furlongs on June 28),” Baltas said, “but you never know. He went pretty easy. He definitely was ready to work.” Big Macher, a 4-year-old California-bred son of Beau Genius, had been sidelined with an injury to his right front foot following a workout on May 10. ...

‘Chrome Ranked Fifth in World

By Bloodhorse.com Dual classic winner California Chrome is the fifth-ranked horse in the latest “World’s Best Racehorse Rankings” published June 12 by the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities. A 3-year-old colt whose Triple Crown bid ended in the June 7 Belmont Stakes (gr. I), California Chrome was rated at 124 in the rankings, compiled by a committee for the period covering Jan. 1-June 8. Continuing to top the rankings with a 130 rating is Japanese-based Just A Way, winner of the Yasuda Kinen (Jpn-I) at Tokyo Racecourse June 8. Rated at 126 and second in the rankings is Variety Club, the South African-based winner of the Godolphin Mile (UAE-II) on the Dubai World Cup card in March. Santa Anita Handicap (gr. I) winner Game On Dude, most recently second in the Charles Town Classic Stakes (gr. II), is tied with Kingman, an impressive five-length winner of the Tattersalls Irish One Thousand Guineas (Ire-I), for third overall. Game On Dude is the highest rated U.S.-based horse at 125. Rated along with... ...

‘Chrome Healing at Los Alamitos

By Bloodhorse.com CYPRESS, Calif. (June 11, 2014) — No news is good news for California Chrome, who is healing up at trainer Art Sherman’s Los Alamitos Race Course barn following a courageous Triple Crown bid that ended with a defeat June 7 in the Belmont Stakes (gr. I). Since arriving back at his Southern California racing base on the night of June 8, California Chrome has been taking it easy while receiving treatment for a grabbed quarter to his right front foot, which Sherman said is improving. He sustained the injury shortly after the start of the 1 1/2-mile Belmont when he bumped with Matterhorn, the horse to his outside in the starting gate. “We’ll doctor the foot for the next 10 days or so, then we’ll send him out for six weeks,” Sherman said June 11. California Chrome will be sent to John Harris’ horse farm in Central California, where the colt was foaled, the trainer said. The stout chestnut is to be turned out at Harris’ River Ranch... ...

Los Alamitos Improvements Continue

By DRF.com CYPRESS, Calif. (June 10, 2014) –Capital improvements continue at Los Alamitos in advance of the track’s July Thoroughbred meeting. On the front side, the walking ring has been expanded about 100 feet into the track apron to accommodate a remodeled winner’s circle and to allow more people, and horses, into the area when horses are being paraded before a race. The new winner’s circle will have two tiers to allow more participation in winner’s circle photos. In addition, the grandstand area adjacent to the Vessels Club restaurant on the second floor has been remodeled with a standing viewing area that will offer an excellent vantage point of the Thoroughbred track that was expanded from five furlongs to a mile last winter. Other improvements on the front side include an upgrade of the television system to high-definition, and a remodeling of bathrooms in the grandstand. On the backstretch, the construction of two barns is nearly complete on property that was previously used as a maintenance yard for tractors and... ...

Unusual Heatwave Wins Crystal Water

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 8, 2014)—Ridden for the first time by Kent Desormeaux, Unusual Heatwave overhauled favored Mega Heat late to win Sunday’s $100,000 Crystal Water Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-olds by three quarters of length, covering one mile on turf in 1:34.17. Trained by Alexis Barba, Unusual Heatwave had been winless in his last six starts, with his most recent victory coming in the Real Good Deal Stakes at Del Mar on Aug. 3, 2012. “He had a bit of problem with his breathing, but we’ve got that addressed now,” said Barba. “We felt he was doing well coming into this race and it was great to see him run well.” With Ethnic Dance, ridden by Edwin Maldonado, showing the way through splits of 23.69, 47.30, 1:10.80 and 1:22.39, Desormeaux had his mount sitting a close third at the rail, just inside of favored Mega Heat, who was ridden by Corey Nakatani. “My biggest concern was, ‘Does Corey have any horse,’” said Desormeaux. “I was just trying to... ...

Awesome Return Wins Silky Sullivan

ALBANY, Calif. (June 8, 2014) — Snow Chief Stakes winner Awesome Return, bottled up in mid-stretch, persisted late to nose out Alert Bay in the last jump and win Sunday’s $100,000 Silky Sullivan Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-olds at Golden Gate. Awesome Return is by Decarchy, out of the Mr. Broad Blade mare Awesome Broad, was bred by owner Richard Kritzski and trained by Mike Puype. “He was real courageous,” said jockey Joe Talamo. “Look at his form. He’s never run a bad race. I think he has a real bright future.” He has three wins in seven starts, earnings of $256,108 and was coming off a win in the Apr. 26 Snow Chief Stakes. “Great race for the horse today,” said Puype. “He just continues to improve.” Awesome Return ran the mile on turf in 1:36.03 and won by a nose over Alert Bay with Patriots Rule finishing third. For Awesome Return’s pedigree, click http://www.pedigreequery.com/awesome+return. ...

Magic Spot Takes Campanile

ALBANY, Calif. (June 8, 2014) — Odds-on favorite Magic Spot led all the way to post a game win in Sunday’s $100,000 Campanile Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-old fillies at Golden Gate. Magic Spot is by Papa Clem, out of the Generous mare Sweet Spot, was bred by Royalty Stables and BG Stables, is owned by BG Stables and Hector Palma and is trained by Palma. She has four wins in eight starts, earnings of $179,060 and was coming off a win in a May 24 optional claimer. Magic Spot ran the mile on turf in 1:36.36 and won by one-half length as the 7-10 favorite with Chati’s On Top second and Global Rule third in the field shortened to four by the scratch of Versye. For Magic Spot’s pedigree, click http://www.pedigreequery.com/magic+spot. ...

‘Chrome to Get a Breather

By DRF.com ELMONT, N.Y. (June 8, 2014) – California Chrome emerged from Saturday’s Belmont Stakes with a minor injury to his right front hoof and will be given a lengthy rest before a scheduled return to racing this fall, trainer Art Sherman said Sunday morning at Belmont Park. “He’s good, other than having a good chunk of his quarter cut,” Sherman said. “We’ll get that healed up at the barn for two to three weeks, then stop on him for six or seven weeks, give him some pasture time. He needs a rest.” That itinerary would take California Chrome out of consideration for any major races this summer such as the Travers Stakes at Saratoga or the Pacific Classic at Del Mar. Sherman said his late-season goal with California Chrome is the Nov. 1 Breeders’ Cup Classic at Santa Anita. “We’ll keep him in California, get him ready for the Breeders’ Cup,” Sherman said. “It’s where he runs his best races. It’s home for us.” California Chrome flew back to California... ...

California Chrome Grabbed Quarter

By DRF.com ELMONT, N.Y. (June 7, 2014) — Victor Espinoza knew early on this wasn’t going to be California Chrome’s day. Espinoza said that California Chrome didn’t show the same energy early on in Saturday’s Belmont Stakes that he had shown in winning the Kentucky Derby and Preakness and he trudged home in a dead-heat for fourth with Wicked Strong, two lengths behind Tonalist in the 146th Belmont Stakes. Espinoza didn’t have a concrete reason why California Chrome was flat on Saturday, but the colt was seen to have blood coming from his right front foot, known as a grabbed quarter, as he walked back through the tunnel after the race. Espinoza believes it may have occurred coming out of the starting gate. “I think he might have stepped on himself out of the gate,” Espinoza said. “I noticed when I jumped off him he was bleeding a little bit in the right front. Maybe that affected him.” ::2014 BELMONT STAKES: Recap, video, chart, and more Watching the head-on replay,... ...

California Chrome’s Bid Ends

ELMONT, N.Y. (June 7, 2014) — California Chrome finished in a dead-heat for fourth in Saturday’s $1.5 million, Grade I Belmont Stakes, ending his attempt to become the first California-bred Triple Crown winner in history and the sport’s first Triple Crown winner in 36 years. According to DRF, California Chrome returned with a cut on his right front foot. Tonalist won the race, followed by Commissioner and Medal Count. California Chrome finished in a tie with Wicked Strong for fourth. The son of Lucky Pulpit, who previously won the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes, is out of the Not For Love mare Love the Chase, was bred and owned by Steve Coburn and Perry Martin, trained by Art Sherman and was ridden by Victor Espinoza. ...

‘Chrome Ready After Final Jog

By DRF.com ELMONT, N.Y. (June 7, 2014) — It’s about 5:30 a.m. the morning of the Belmont Stakes, and dual classic winner California Chrome is sauntering down the horsepath under the trees, ears pricked, seemingly unperturbed by the handful of press and well-wishers here to get one final look the morning of the most significant test of his young life. Exercise rider Willie Delgado pats the colt on the neck, then throws a thumbs-up to the rider of a passing horse who hollers a good luck wish to the horse looking to end 36 years of crushed hopes if he can sweep the Triple Crown later today. California Chrome steps onto the gap near the 10-furlong pole of the massive Belmont Park oval, turning the wrong way to jog a lap, just stretching his legs before the 1 1/2-mile Test of the Champion at about 6:52 this evening. He passes the point where the starting gate will be positioned today, where he’ll load in post 2 and be asked to... ...

‘Chrome Draws Post 2 in Belmont

By DRF.com ELMONT, N.Y. – California Chrome’s final quest for the Triple Crown will begin from post 2, and the colt was installed as the heavy favorite against a relatively sizable field when the post positions were drawn and morning line established for the $1.5 million Belmont Stakes, to be contested Saturday. California Chrome, seeking to become the 12th Triple Crown winner, and first since Affirmed in 1978, is the 3-5 morning line favorite in the field of 11 entered Wednesday morning. The field assembled would be the largest Belmont group defeated by a Triple Crown winner; Citation (1948) and Seattle Slew (1977) each faced seven rivals. California Chrome is by Lucky Pulpit, out of the Not For Love mare Love the Chase, was bred by owners Perry Martin and Steve Coburn, is trained by Art Sherman and will be ridden by Victor Espinoza. He has eight wins in 12 starts and earnings of $3,452,650. ::2014 BELMONT STAKES: Latest news, video, and more California Chrome has won six consecutive races... ...

Tuesday’s ‘Chrome Report

By Bloodhorse.com ELMONT, N.Y. (June 3, 2014) — Triple Crown hopeful California Chrome went for a slow and easy gallop over the main track at Belmont Park June 3, with 77-year-old trainer Art Sherman on hand to watch after arriving from California the previous day. His stable star is aiming to become the 12th Triple Crown champion with a victory in the June 7 million Belmont Stakes (gr. I). “I haven’t been back here for a lot of years, and I rode here years ago,” said Sherman, who won more than 2,000 races as a jockey from 1957-78. “It’s changed quite a bit. I didn’t realize it was this big. After you get away from it, it’s a huge racetrack. It’s beautiful. It’s good to be back.” After schooling in the paddock, California Chrome got a hug around the neck from regular exercise rider Willie Delgado before heading to the 1 12-mile track, where he jogged a half-mile before turning around for his 2 3/8-mile gallop. “I thought he looked... ...

Frensham in Affirmed

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 4, 2014) – Frensham is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Grade III Affirmed Stakes for 3-year-olds at Santa Anita. Frensham is by Square Eddie, out of the Formal Gold mare Farnham, was bred by J. Paul Reddam, is owned by Zilah Reddam and trained by Doug O’Neill. He has one win in five starts, earnings of $56,550 and is coming off a maiden win May 9. ...

Cal-bred Trio at Canterbury

SHAKOPEE, Minn. (June 4, 2014) – California-breds Vonn Nez, Enlightened and Chumash are entered in Saturday’s $75,000 Minnesota H.B.P.A. Distaff Stakes for fillies and mares at Canterbury Park. Vonn Nez is by Storm Creek, out of the Iz a Saros mare Iza Bay, was bred by J. Chance Kruljac, is owned by Windy Lea Farms and trained by Valorie Lund. She has three wins in 38 starts, earnings of $90,165 and is coming off a fourth in a May 25 optional claimer. Enlightened is by Larry the Legend, out of the Moscow Ballet mare Glimmering, was bred by Robert Englekirk, Craig Lewis and Lawrence Lewis, is owned by Windy Lea Farms and trained by Valorie Lund. She has eight wins in 29 starts, earnings of $98,548 and is coming off a win in a May 25 optional claimer. Chumash is by Tribal Rule, out of the Bertrando mare Belle Armour, was bred by Pam and Marty Wygod, is owned by Tine Clements and is trained by Robertino... ...

Monday’s California Chrome Report

By Bloodhorse.com ELMONT, N.Y. (June 2, 2014) — Triple Crown hopeful California Chrome was out for some exercise on Belmont Park’s main track the morning of June 2, jogging once clockwise around the 1 1/2-mile oval under regular exercise rider Willie Delgado. The handsome chestnut colt, who is easy to spot on the track with his distinctive white blaze, walked the shedrow Sunday morning following Saturday’s final serious work for $1.5 million Belmont Stakes (gr. I). The winner of the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) and Preakness Stakes (gr. I) is attempting to become the first horse since Affirmed in 1978 to sweep all three races and become the 12th Triple Crown winner. California Chrome is scheduled to resume galloping Tuesday morning. Trainer Art Sherman is expected to be on hand. The 77-year-old trainer returned to California following the Preakness, with his son, Alan, overseeing the colt’s preparations in New York. Read more on BloodHorse.com: http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/85448/california-chrome-stretches-legs-at-belmont#ixzz33WP5a5m7 ...

‘Chrome, Sketchers in Endorsement Deal

By ESPN.com The owners of California Chrome signed their first major sponsorship deal for the horse ahead of his attempt to be the first Triple Crown winner in 36 years. Shoe brand Skechers will be featured on everything from the apparel of the horse’s handlers to the horse’s blanket, or fly sheet, to the barn leading up to the Belmont Stakes on June 7. The deal also requires team members to wear Skechers branding in the winner’s circle should the horse win and allows Skechers to use California Chrome in marketing materials for a month after the race. Terms were not disclosed, but a source with knowledge of the deal said it’s the largest deal in horse racing since UPS paid IAEH Stables to advertise on Triple Crown hopeful Big Brown in 2008. “We’re a marketing company that just happens to be in the footwear business,” said Robert Greenberg, the chief executive for Skechers, which headquartered in California. “We’re spending a couple bucks to the roll the dice and if... ...

‘Chrome Works for Belmont

By Bloodhorse.com Triple Crown hopeful California Chrome looked sharp in his final workout May 31 in preparation for the upcoming Belmont Stakes (gr. I), breezing a half-mile under regular rider Victor Espinoza in a quick :47.69 at Belmont Park. “It was great,” Espinoza said. “I started not too fast…and I picked it up a little bit at the end. When we crossed the wire, I kind of dropped the reins a little bit and he did what he always does: his job.” Steve Coburn and Perry Martin’s homebred son of Lucky Pulpit is seeking to become the 12th horse in history to sweep the Kentucky Derby (gr. I), Preakness Stakes (gr. I) and Belmont and the first Crown winner since Affirmed in 1978. He impressed on-lookers with his presence over a track playing fast after being sealed overnight because of light rain in the New York area. “The horse worked great,” assistant trainer Alan Sherman said. “(The track) seems to be fast today. A little moisture last night, I think, tightened... ...

‘Chrome’s Career Began at Harris Farms

By San Jose Mercury News COALINGA — Here at Harris Farms, just a whiff away from the cattle feed lots along Interstate 5, an all-female foaling crew helped deliver a precocious chestnut colt named California Chrome, smothering him with hugs and kisses. It was here that exercise rider Chendo Michel cinched the future champion’s first saddle, groomer Chuy Horta iced his tender white ankles, and co-owners Steve Coburn and Perry Martin first won his affections with a bag of Mrs. Pastures cookies. This is the birthplace of California Chrome, who on Saturday will attempt to become the first horse in 36 years to win racing’s coveted Triple Crown — and the first ever from California. The white rail fences and mulberry trees, foaling pens and training barns of his first two years are more than 2,000 miles away from where the 3-year-old colt won the Kentucky Derby and Preakness last month and even farther from the Belmont Stakes. It’s where his most-devoted followers will crowd around a television... ...

Oak Tree, Pleasanton Join Forces

By Tracy Gantz The Oak Tree Racing Association and the Pleasanton race meeting are joining forces to boost interest in Northern California racing. Through sponsorships to the Pleasanton stakes schedule and an increase in marketing, Oak Tree will add more excitement to the Pleasanton meet, which traditionally kicks off the summer Northern California racing circuit. Pleasanton has been rebranded as Oak Tree at Pleasanton, complete with its new designation of OTP in past performances and charts. As such, the June 19-July 6 meeting will benefit from Oak Tree’s long experience and history of conducting some of the most successful race meetings in the country, including hosting five Breeders’ Cups. “Oak Tree Racing Association is very pleased to be racing again this summer at the Pleasanton Race Course, the oldest racing surface in California, having been first built in 1858,” said Oak Tree President John Barr. “We will operate this meet in cooperation with the Alameda County Fair, which will be open during the same time period and... ...

Debut Winner for The Pamplemousse

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 30, 2014) — Freshman California sire The Pamplemousse’s first starter Big Swag was a $56,000 maiden allowance daylight winner at Santa Anita. Big Swag is out of the Boundary broodmare Border Fire a multiple stakes placed winner of $296,703. The juvenile broke alertly and was pressed along by the favorite until the head of the stretch when the gray gelding drew off by daylight and scored by three and a quarter lengths in 52.23. Bred in California by Hayes and Hayes this juvenile had a solid worktab for his debut, including a bullet 35 and 3 move from the gate, for trainer Dan Hendricks and owners Hayes, Higman, McGuire, et al. He picked up the Cal-bred/sired bonus of $17,500 and the $33,600 winners share of the purse. ...

California Chrome Gets New Shoes

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (May 30, 2014) — In time for his planned May 31 breeze, Triple Crown hopeful California Chrome got a visit from farrier Judd Fisher and a new set of shoes at Belmont Park. Steve Coburn and Perry Martin’s winner of the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) and the Preakness Stakes (gr. I) had the routine footwork done May 30 around 1 p.m. EDT under the watchful eye of assistant trainer Alan Sherman, who said the completed job looks “outstanding.” Fisher, who flew in specifically to shoe California Chrome before his June 7 engagement in the Belmont Stakes (gr. I), adapted a glue-on shoe produced by Thoro’Bred Racing Plate Company. Instead of attaching the shoe with adhesive, he now nails them into place. “It was made to be glued on with an adhesive, but I didn’t use the adhesive, I just nailed it on,” Fisher said. “I just wanted to get him up off his sole a little bit more than he was. It... ...

‘Chrome Poster Boy for California Breeders

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (May 30, 2014) — California breeders and the state’s entire racing industry could not find a better horse to carry their brand. Or a better name. On the verge of making Triple Crown history, California Chrome has been a tremendous morale booster for a state breeding and racing program left reeling by its downward spiral for several years. “A horse like California Chrome really increases our visibility,” said Doug Burge, president of the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association. “Even his name is an advertisement for our breeding program. I’m so glad they selected that name for him. You should have seen some of the other names on the list.” Such as SeaBisquick, which was one of the other possible names on the owners’ short list. Cute, but not quite the same ring. The charismatic chestnut carries the state’s pride as the first California-bred to win the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands and Preakness (both gr. I). Excitement over the potential of such an unlikely Triple Crown... ...

The Spinmeister Wins for Heatseeker

EDMONTON, Canada (May 24, 2014) — The Spinmeister, a Kentucky-bred son of California stallion Heatseeker, won last Saturday’s $48,620 Western Canada Handicap at Northlands Park. The Spinmeister ran the six furlongs in 1:11.46 and won by a neck. For The Spinmeister’s pedigree, click http://www.pedigreequery.com/the+spinmeister. ...

Wednesday’s ‘Chrome Report

By Bloodhorse.com Triple Crown hopeful California Chrome on May 28 picked back up where he left off the previous day, showing the same eagerness he displayed a day earlier when galloping his customary two-mile circuit on an overcast morning at Belmont Park. “Yesterday he pulled, and today he pulled farther,” said California Chrome’s exercise rider Willie Delgado. “And then he pulled up and he wasn’t even blowing out a match. Fitness wise, he’s fit. Come the day of the race, like I always said, it’s all up to him and God. I can’t say enough. He’s really, really improving. Like I’ve always said, after each race he got better. He’s out on weight, he’s gotten stronger.” The 3-year-old Lucky Pulpit colt is trying to become the first Triple Crown winner in 36 years, after sweeping the first two legs in sensational fashion. “He went really strong today; he was feeling good,” said assistant trainer Alan Sherman, son of trainer Art Sherman. The Belmont Stakes field got a little deeper in... ...

NBC Sports Releases Belmont Schedule

STAMFORD, Conn. – (May 28, 2014) – NBC Sports Group presents 16 hours of programming surrounding the 146th Belmont Stakes – more than double the number of hours initially scheduled – beginning next Wednesday, June 4. On Saturday, June 7 at 4:30 p.m. ET on NBC, California Chrome runs for history, aiming to become the first Triple Crown winner since Affirmed in 1978. Coverage begins Wednesday, June 4, at 6:30 p.m. ET on NBCSN with California Chrome: The Unlikely Champion,a special 30–minute documentary narrated by Bob Costas, detailing the story of an unlikely team of horsemen in co-owners Steve Coburn and Perry Martin coming together with trainer Art Sherman and jockey Victor Espinoza to take their horse to the brink of the Triple Crown. Coverage continues with Belmont Classics Thursday, June 5, at 5:30 p.m. ET on NBCSN, with a look at past Belmont Stakes winners including three consecutive Triple Crown upsets: 2002 winner Sarava (beat Triple Crown hopeful War Emblem), 2003 winner Empire Maker ridden by... ...

All Systems Go for ‘Chrome

By Bloodhorse.com Assistant trainer Alan Sherman declared “all systems go” for Triple Crown contender California Chrome after watching the 3-year-old colt gallop two miles at Belmont Park shortly after 6 a.m. (EDT) May 26. Alan Sherman, who assists his 77-year-old father Art, is overseeing the training of California Chrome as the California-bred son of Lucky Pulpit prepares for a possible date with history in the June 7, $1.5 million Belmont Stakes (gr. I). A Belmont victory, coupled with previous triumphs in the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) and Preakness Stakes (gr. I) would make Chrome the 12th horse to sweep the three races and the first Triple Crown winner since Affirmed in 1978. “The track was a little deeper today but he got over it fine,” Sherman said. “All systems go.” Since Affirmed’s win, 11 horses have tried unsuccessfully to complete the sweep; in 2012, I’ll Have Another won the Derby and Preakness but was scratched from the Belmont the week of the race due to an... ...

All American Repeat for Summer Hit

By Bloodhorse.com Summer Hit, sent off at 3-5 odds, did not disappoint as the gelding went wire-to-wire and withstood a stout challenge from longshot stablemate Longview Drive to win the All American Stakes (gr. III) (VIDEO) May 26 at Golden Gate Fields. It was the second consecutive victory in the Memorial Day fixture for the son of Bertrando. With jockey Russell Baze aboard for trainer Jerry Hollendorfer, both Hall of Famers, Summer Hit was in charge as the field entered the first turn not long after the break in the mile test for 3-year-olds and up. Setting moderate fractions of :24.64 and :48.62, Summer Hit was closely tracked by Pepper Crown, the 48-1 upset winner over Summer Hit in the San Francisco Mile (gr. III) exactly a month earlier. Summer Hit and Pepper Crown continued to lead a closely bunched field through six furlongs in 1:12.68 around the second turn and the pace quickened slightly into the stretch, with seven-eighths of a mile timed in 1:25.12. Pepper Crown, on the inside,... ...

Cyclometer Wins Los Angeles

By Bloodhorse.com Cyclometer, owned and bred by trainer Bruce Headley and Irwin and Andrew Molasky, made short work of two other foes in a scratch-marred $92,000 Los Angeles Handicap (gr. III) (VIDEO) at Santa Anita Park May 26. Only a field of five was drawn for the race. Super Ninety Nine was an early scratch, and Wild Dude was scratched by the track veterinarian during the warm-up. HRTV reported the 4-year-old horse was scratched because he was off in his left front leg. Wine Police fired away for the lead in the six-furlong Los Angeles under jockey Victor Espinoza to lead through a quick pace as Cyclometer pushed the leader from the outside. Color of Courage trailed in third. The early fractions for the race, run on a fast track, were :21.47 for the opening quarter-mile and :44.22 for the half-mile. Cyclometer, the slight favorite at even money, disposed of Wine Police on the far turn and drew clear to win by 2 1/2 lengths under Edwin Maldonado. Wine Police finished... ...

Saturday’s ‘Chrome Report

By DRF.com ELMONT, N.Y. (May 24, 2014) – Being based mostly in Southern California, California Chrome had rarely, if ever, seen a wet track. During his Triple Crown run, California Chrome has seen his share of them in Kentucky, Baltimore, and especially here in New York. If you listen to his exercise rider, Willie Delgado, California Chrome didn’t appear to like it at Churchill Downs but floated over it at Pimlico. On Saturday, for the third straight morning, California Chrome galloped nearly two miles over a wet Belmont Park surface, and he seemed to handle it just fine. “Churchill wasn’t his favorite track; he never actually felt comfortable on it,” Delgado said Saturday morning, two hours after galloping California Chrome over a sealed, sloppy main track. “Even at Pimlico, when we went out that one day and it was raining, he floated over it. Here especially, he’s really taken to this tack … I don’t see him having any problem with a wet track here.” So far, California Chrome hasn’t encountered... ...

Friday’s ‘Chrome Update

By Bloodhorse.com ELMONT, N.Y. (May 24, 2014) — Triple Crown contender California Chrome was unfazed the morning of May 23 when he encountered an opossum that decided to cross the main track at Belmont Park near the end of the colt’s daily gallop. California Chrome, who on June 7 will attempt to add the Belmont Stakes (gr. I) to his victories in the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands and Preakness Stakes (both gr. I), didn’t even flinch as he passed the cat-sized marsupial near the gap. He completed his 1 3/4-mile gallop much to the satisfaction of exercise rider Willie Delgado and assistant trainer Alan Sherman. “We have coyotes on the track at Los Alamitos; it was no big deal,” said Alan Sherman, assistant to his father, Art Sherman. “The track was a little heavier than it was yesterday, but (California Chrome) seemed to handle it fine.” Sherman said California Chrome likely would school in the paddock once or twice next week, and also school in the starting gate... ...

Santa Anita to Replace Dirt Track

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (May 24, 2014) — Santa Anita Park has announced that it’s one mile main track will undergo a major renovation beginning July 11 following conclusion of the Southern California facility’s first spring stand. The renovation will result in the track transitioning to a single-source material consisting of highly coveted El Segundo Sand, a natural soil that will ensure balanced drainage during periods of wet weather and a uniform, safe cushion year round. “Beginning July 11, we’re going to take out the existing surface and go down to the base of the track,” said Dennis Moore, Santa Anita track superintendent. “At that point, we’ll survey the existing base and ensure we’re meeting all specifications relative to slope and grade. “We’re going to be moving 20,000-plus yards of material and we anticipate this process is going to take about four or five weeks,” Moore added. “We’re very fortunate to have been able to locate this soil which is currently being excavated due to construction projects over at LAX... ...

Thursday’s ‘Chrome Update

By DRF.com ELMONT, N.Y. (May 22, 2014) — California Chrome got to stretch his legs at Belmont Park on Thursday, with his first gallop over the surface, and assistant trainer Alan Sherman liked what he saw. California Chrome “took to the track like you can’t believe,” Sherman said. “This horse keeps on amazing me.” With wins in the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes, California Chrome will seek to become the sport’s 12th Triple Crown winner in the Belmont Stakes on June 7. He has won six straight races, including all five of his starts this year. After winning the Preakness on Saturday, California Chrome remained at Pimlico until Tuesday morning, when he was sent by van to Belmont Park. He jogged over the track on Wednesday, then stepped up his training to a gallop on Thursday. California Chrome will continue to gallop until a half-mile workout on May 31, scheduled to be the lone workout for California Chrome between the Preakness and the Belmont. He did not work between the... ...

Wednesday’s ‘Chrome Report

By Bloodhorse ELMONT, N.Y. (May 21, 2014) — Triple Crown hopeful California Chrome set foot on the Belmont Park main track for the first time May 21, leisurely jogging once around the 1 1/2-mile course with exercise rider Willie Delgado aboard. California Chrome, who arrived at Belmont a day earlier, hit the track at approximately 6:45 a.m. EDT, and for the next 12 minutes jogged clockwise near the outer rail before slowing to a walk for the final sixteenth of a mile. “He actually surprised me, how good he was feeling this morning,” said Alan Sherman, assistant trainer to his father, Art Sherman. “It’s amazing how quick this horse is bouncing back off these big races he’s running. He was dragging me around the shed row, he dragged Willie around the track today. He was really feeling good.” Alan Sherman said California Chrome, who is owned by Steven Coburn and Perry Martin, will start galloping May 22, which will provide a better idea of how the colt handles the Belmont... ...

‘Chrome Arrives at Belmont

By DRF.com ELMONT, N.Y. (May 20, 2014) – Thirty-six years of waiting, 12 furlongs to go. California Chrome, the Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner, arrived at the final stop on his Triple Crown journey Tuesday, when a horse van carrying him and Preakness runner-up Ride On Curlin passed through the gates of Belmont Park shortly before 10:45 a.m. The van arrived following an approximately 4 1/2-hour trip from Pimlico in Baltimore. The van got stuck in a little rush-hour traffic near the George Washington Bridge before picking up a police escort from the Throgs Neck Bridge. On a glorious, sun-splashed spring morning, a gaggle of media – including representatives from most, if not all, of New York’s local television stations as well as CNN – were present when the horses arrived. California Chrome, as is his wont, was backed off the ramp before being led by Alan Sherman, the son and assistant of trainer Art Sherman, into Barn 26, where both he and Ride On Curlin will take up residence. California... ...

Monday’s ‘Chrome Report

By Bloodhorse.com BALTIMORE, Md. (May 19, 2014) — California Chrome, who on June 7 in the Belmont Stakes (gr. I) will try to become the 12th Triple Crown winner, walked the shedrow May 19 in the Preakness stakes barn at Pimlico Race Course first with assistant trainer Alan Sherman and then with groom Raul Rodriguez. Trainer Art Sherman stopped by to say goodbye to the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) and Preakness Stakes (gr. I) winner before heading back to California for the next two weeks. “He came out of that race great, feeling good,” Alan Sherman said. “He is usually tired for a few days, but he was feeling really good. I am starting to realize the significance of it all. It has been a great ride this horse has put us on and I never fathomed we would be one race away from winning the Triple Crown.” Thirty-three horses have been eligible to win the Triple Crown entering the Belmont but just 11 have succeeded. It... ...

N.Y. Gives ‘Chrome OK on Nasal Strip

By DRF.com ELMONT, N.Y. (May 19, 2014) — California Chrome can wear a nasal trip in the June 7 Belmont Stakes, just as he has done for his prior six wins in three other states, Martin Panza, a senior vice president for the New York Racing Association, said Monday morning. “I can confirm the stewards have been in touch with Art Sherman and told him he can use it,” Panza said. The use of a nasal strip became a cause celebre the past 24 hours after Sherman, who trains California Chrome, was surprised to find out Sunday morning at Pimlico he might not be able to use the nasal strip in the Belmont Stakes, in which California Chrome will go for the Triple Crown. The use of a nasal strip is not specifically banned by state law in New York, nor even a house rule at the track. It is strictly up to the discretion of the track’s stewards. Two years ago, the stewards denied I’ll Have Another the use... ...

SI.com on California Chrome

By Frank Layden, SI.com BALTIMORE, Md. (May 18, 2014) — Many years ago a journeyman jockey watched a horse race on television. It was a Saturday afternoon in June 1973, approaching the end of the jockey’s career. By then he had crisscrossed the country so many times, and played so many hands of poker in so many jocks’ rooms at so many racetracks, that the memory of where he was that day has long disappeared into the mists of time. But the memory of what he saw has not. The jockey’s name was Art Sherman and the horse was Secretariat. On that late spring afternoon, Secretariat won the Belmont Stakes by 31 lengths in what is generally regarded as the greatest performance in horse racing history. It followed the colt’s victories in the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness, and completed racing’s Triple Crown for the first time in a quarter of a century, which seemed like a long drought at the time, but now not so much. Sherman would ride a... ...

Let Faith Arise Wins Adoration

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (May 18, 2014)—Heavily favored at 3-5, Tommy Town Thoroughbreds homebred Let Faith Arise battled gamely through the lane to win Sunday’s Grade III, $100,000 Adoration Stakes by neck under Corey Nakatani, covering 1 1/16 miles at Santa Anita 1:43.41. A close fourth in the Grade I Apple Blossom Handicap at Oaklawn Park April 11, Let Faith Arise was a virtual gate to wire winner of the Grade I Santa Margarita Stakes at Santa Anita two starts back on March 15. Trained by Jerry Hollendorfer, the 4-year-old Kentucky-bred filly by California stallion Kafwain was all-out to collar longshot pacesetter Yahilwa in the shadow of the wire. “She did everything she was supposed to do,” said Nakatani. “We had to call an audible, because we thought we’d be sitting 1-2 early, but those other two (Yahilwa, ridden by Kent Desormeaux, and Eblouissante, ridden by Gary Stevens) went pretty quick, so we sat back off them and it worked out. She relaxed very well and she ran... ...

Sherman Confident ‘Chrome Can Sweep

From Pimlico Publicity BALTIMORE, Md. (May 18, 2014) — Trainer Art Sherman widened his smile and nodded at the question of the morning Sunday after California Chrome added Saturday’s Preakness Stakes (G1) to his win in the Kentucky Derby: Have you been thinking about the Triple Crown? “I sure have,” Sherman said. “I’m thinking what the journey is, one more shot. I’m going to have a lot of fresh shooters waiting for me in New York. He’s done everything we’ve asked of him. He really doesn’t have a lot to prove. He’s been a super horse for us. He’s one of those horses that you’re going to have to outrun to beat him. Maybe they won’t be able to beat him. I’m looking forward to that race.” California Chrome will try to become the 12th Triple Crown winner – the first since Affirmed swept the series in 1978 – in the Belmont Stakes on Saturday, June 7. The colt will walk the shedrow Pimlico at 7 a.m. Monday and ship... ...

‘Chrome Exits Preakness Well

By DRF.com BALTIMORE, Md. (May 18, 2014) — California Chrome emerged from his win in the Preakness Stakes tired but otherwise fine, trainer Art Sherman said Sunday morning here at Pimlico, where California Chrome will remain for a few more days before heading to Belmont Park and a bid for a Triple Crown in the Belmont Stakes on June 7. “I’m going to let him unwind,” Sherman said outside the stakes barn. “He’ll go to Belmont on Tuesday or Wednesday.” Even though California Chrome had run his second tough race in two weeks, when he was taken out of his stall around 7 a.m. Sunday by Alan Sherman, Art’s son and assistant, he aggressively walked the shedrow. “He’s dragging Alan around there,” Sherman said, marveling. Sherman said his son would remain with California Chrome daily on the East Coast. Sherman is returning Monday to California to oversee his stable at Los Alamitos. He said he would come to New York about a week before the Belmont and said California Chrome... ...

‘Chrome Connections Quotes

PREAKNESS STAKES QUOTES Winning Trainer Art Sherman (California Chrome): “He broke great and had a perfect trip. I was so happy when I saw where he was able to set him. Right now he’s really on his toes and doing good. He’s a remarkable horse to come back in two weeks and win. I know he’s not the only horse that ever did that, but it’s tough on a horse to come back in two weeks. I appreciate everyone involved in my team. They did a hell of a job. Both my sons are here. It’s very emotional. “To me, this race was even a little tougher for me knowing that I’m coming back in a little shorter distance than I normally ever run them and the time I give them to rest between races. I was a little concerned about that, but he’s got a big heart this horse – big. “Wow. I’ll tell you it’s quite a thrill. I know we had to run harder in this race. ... ...

California Chrome Wins Preakness

BALTIMORE, Md. (May 17, 2014) — California Chrome is one jewel away from becoming the first California-bred to win racing’s Triple Crown after capturing Saturday’s $1.5 million Grade I Preakness Stakes at Pimlico. As an encore to his Kentucky Derby win two weeks ago, California Chrome broke alertly, was eased outside and into the clear by jockey Victor Espinoza going into the first turn, moved toward the leaders going into the far turn, rejected a bid by Social Inclusion, pulled away into the stretch and held off late-closing Ride On Curlin for a comfortable 1 1/4 length win in 1:54.84 for the 1 3/16 miles. “This was a crazy race,” said Espinoza. “It was a little complicated early in the race. I got more tired mentally than physically. I had to use my brains too much, but it worked out perfectly. The outside horse (Social Inclusion) moved too early and there was still a long ways to go and I got a little worried.” The 1-2 favorite, California Chrome is by Lucky... ...

Harris Farms Raised California Chrome

By New York Times COALINGA, Calif. — There is no bluegrass here or limestone fences framing postcard-ready landscapes. A drought has drained the San Joaquin Valley of any color other than beige. There is no mistaking the smell in the air, either: It is cow manure from the feedlot of California’s largest beef producer. This is a working ranch, after all, where cows graze, almonds and pistachios grow on trees, and asparagus sprouts from the arid ground. The horses here are a sidelight, not sheikh-owned stallions that command $100,000 in the breeding shed. There is no harem of impeccably bred mares owned by the Wertheimers of the House of Chanel or any other of the sport’s boldface names. As thoroughbred racing goes, Harris Farms is more a blue-plate than blue-blood breeding operation. But this month a horse named California Chrome, who was bred on a patch of this 14,000-acre ranch, ran off with the 140th Kentucky Derby and lifted the spirits of small-time horsemen everywhere. The colt was bred by... ...

Unusual Heat Trifecta at Santa Anita

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (May 18, 2014) — Friday’s seventh race was an Unusual Heat Trifecta. The first three finishers–Heat Flash, Boozer and Bobby Z Man–were sired by Unusual Heat. The $1 Tri paid $89.50. Trainer Barry Abrams owned, bred and conditioned the winner; previously owned, bred and trained Boozer; and bred and trained Bobby Z Man. ...

Friday’s California Chrome Report

By DRF.com BALTIMORE, Md. (May 16, 2014) – California Chrome, the Kentucky Derby winner, had a routine gallop of two miles on Friday morning at Pimlico during conditions that were anything but routine, a heavy downpour that left the track sloppy and forced the afternoon’s grass races to be moved to the main track. Fortunately, the storm was predicted to be fast-moving, was expected to be gone by late Friday, and thus should result in a fast track by post time Saturday afternoon for the Preakness Stakes, the second leg of the Triple Crown. “He seemed to handle the track perfect,” said Art Sherman, who trains California Chrome. “Wind at 25 miles an hour; he’s not used to that. But he went through the mud like, ‘Hey, I can do it.’ I was curious as to how he’d do it. I think he’d be a good mud horse myself.” The California Chrome camp was relaxed and jovial, a day after they revealed that California Chrome was being treated for a very... ...

Hovdey on California Chrome

By Jay Hovdey, DRF.com BALTIMORE, Md. (May 15, 2014) — California Chrome chose neither his parents nor his destiny. As a Thoroughbred racehorse, you pretty much work with what you’re handed at birth, and what he has done is remarkable, rising from the protection of restricted stakes competition to sit atop the sport on a five-race winning streak crowned by the Kentucky Derby. As for the two-legged members of his tribe, they all had a choice. Nowhere was it written that the Shermans, the Delgados or the Rodriguez family had to sink their lives so deeply into the Thoroughbred world. But they did, and the results of their labors will be on display again Saturday when California Chrome tries to add the 139th running of the Preakness Stakes at Pimlico to his growing reputation. Alberto Delgado and his younger brother, Willie, are familiar names on the Maryland scene. For their own reasons, they ventured out West, hoping to tap into one of California’s famous reinventions. Last year, Alberto ended up... ...

Siblings Win at Golden Gate

ALBANY, Calif. (May 15, 2014) — Half-sisters Runninismygame and Sheza Trip won races on the same Thursday card at Golden Gate. Both fillies are out of the Rio’s Lark mare Run Kaitlyn Run, were bred by owner Patricia Ford and trained by Bill Delia. Runninismygame, a 2-year-old by Game Plan, won the first race, a maiden special weight, by three lengths at odds of 3-1. Sheza Trip, a 3-year-old by Good Journey, won the fourth race, a claimer, by a neck at odds of 9-2. ...

Harris Farms Celebrates ‘Chrome

By Louisville Courier-Journal It was mid-afternoon in Coalinga, Calif., as 30 people jammed into a conference room best suited for eight. The horse handlers and maintenance and office staff at Harris Farms huddled around a television, anxiously waiting to see the chestnut colt they had raised since birth take America’s grandest racing stage for the Kentucky Derby. Dan Kiser, racing and bloodstock manager for the owners of California Chrome’s sire, was at Churchill Downs to root on the son of their stallion, Lucky Pulpit. He saw California Chrome capture the 140th Kentucky Derby by 13/4 lengths. He heard the near-record crowd’s roar. He felt the rush of victory. He burst with pride. But it was later, watching a YouTube video of those Harris employees, that a different kind of emotion hit, as he realized that, while the program lists Steve Coburn and Perry Martin as owners, those working in anonymity on Harris Farms and at the track feel a propriety kinship with California Chrome that’s every bit as valid. Staff... ...

She’s Ordained Enters Skipat

BALTIMORE, Md. (May 13, 2014) — She’s Ordained is the lone California-bred entered in Friday’s $100,000 Skipat Stakes for fillies and mares at Pimlico. She’s Ordained is by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Not For Love mare Whole Lotta Love, was bred by Tommy Town Thoroughbreds, is owned by Ronald Ulrich and is trained by Timothy Kreiser. She has 14 wins in 33 starts, earnings of $359,325 and is coming off a fourth in the Apr. 19 Primonetta. ...

NorCal Sale Pinhook Brings $85,000

POMONA, Calif. (May 13, 2014) — An $85,000 purchase at Monday’s Barretts May Sale of 2-Year-Olds was a $10,000 pinhook from last year’s Northern California Yearling and Horses of Racing Age Sale. The chestnut filly, Hip No. 70, is by Majesticperfection, out of the mare Ennui, and was purchased Monday by James Cassidy and was consigned by Wavertree Stables, Inc. (Ciaran Dunne). As the property of H & E Ranch, the filly sold last year at CTBA’s Northern California Sale at Pleasanton to Adrian Gonzalez as Hip No. 95. ...

Tuesday’s California Chrome Report

By DRF.com BALTIMORE, Md. (May 13, 2014) – California Chrome had been standing on the Pimlico loam for only a minute or two Tuesday morning when he let out an inordinately long and loud whinny, as if to say, “What is this new place?” Some 30 minutes later, after the colt had made an uneventful first-ever circuit of the track, assistant trainer Alan Sherman grinned about it. “That’s him,” said Sherman. With regular exercise rider Willie Delgado aboard, California Chrome stood in place for several minutes before breaking into a slow, clockwise jog, touring the one-mile Pimlico oval once before being led off by Sherman at the same quarter-pole gap. He then walked back to the stakes barn, with the entire light-training routine taking no more than 20 minutes. ::DRF Live: Reports from training hours at Pimlico 8-9 a.m. ET this week “I just wanted him to get familiar with the track,” said Sherman, who has been deputizing for his father, trainer Art Sherman, since shortly after California Chrome won the... ...

Cal-bred Sells for $260,000

By Bloodhorse.com POMONA, Calif. (May 12, 2014) — Long Hot Summer, a Street Boss filly raised at the same ranch as California Chrome, topped the Barretts May 2-year-old sale at $260,000. She was one of seven six-figure horses at the sale, held May 12 in Pomona, Calif., with four of the top five priced horses bred in California. McCarthy Bloodstock consigned the California-bred sale-topping filly out of stakes winner Hotlantic, by Stormy Atlantic , for John Harris and Don Valpredo. Long Hot Summer was raised at Harris’ Harris Ranch in Coalinga, Calif., and its nearby River Ranch in Sanger. Those are the same connections that brought up Steve Coburn and Perry Martin’s California Chrome, winner of the May 3 Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum Brands (gr. I). With a smaller catalog than last year, the May sale declined in average and total receipts from 2013. A total of 70 horses averaged $43,307 on a gross of $3,031,500, a decrease of 21.7% in average and 37.7% in gross. In 2013, 88 horses... ...

‘Chrome Arrives in Baltimore

By DRF.com BALTIMORE, Md. (May 12, 2014) – Kentucky Derby winner California Chrome, escorted by four Baltimore city police officers on motorcycles, arrived at Pimlico Racecourse a little before 3:15 p.m. Monday after shipping from Churchill Downs. The Derby winner traveled by van from Churchill – where he has been based since shipping from California on April 28 – to Lexington, where he boarded a Tex Sutton charter accompanied by groom Raul Rodriguez, exercise rider Willie Delgado, and Jordan Olsen, a longtime friend of assistant trainer Alan Sherman. Sherman flew on a separate plane that landed at Baltimore-Washington International Airport at roughly the same time as California Chrome’s, and he led the horse off the van and into his new stall at Pimlico. California Chrome, as he did arriving in Kentucky, declined to be cajoled off the van walking forward, and had to be backed out the door. “That’s just something he wants to do,” said Sherman. “He did it coming off the plane, too.” ::DRF Live: Reports from training... ...

Cal-bred Maiden a Record Breaker

By DRF.com ARCADIA, Calif . (May 12, 2014) — Eddie’s First lowered the course record for about 6 1/2 furlongs on the hillside turf at Santa Anita on Sunday, leading throughout to finish in 1:10.73. The clocking beat the previous mark of 1:11.10 set by California Flag in the Grade 3 Morvich Handicap in September 2008. Eddie’s First ($4.20) disputed the pace throughout Sunday’s fourth race for California-bred maidens. Ridden by Elvis Trujillo, who carried 117 pounds, the 3-year-old Eddie’s First was a head behind Smart Journey after an opening quarter-mile in 21.48 seconds. Eddie’s First took the lead on the hillside, and led by a length through a half-mile in 42.58 seconds. Eddie’s First widened his lead in the final three furlongs. He led by five lengths with a furlong remaining and won by 9 1/4 lengths over Smart Journey, who was 4 1/2 lengths in front of third-place finisher Otto’s Echo in the field of eight. The final time was slightly faster than a hand-timed clocking by track... ...

Monday’s California Chrome Report

By DRF.com LOUISVILLE, Ky. (May 12, 2014) — California Chrome was among the first horses to step onto a fast Churchill Downs surface early Monday before being guided through a routine 1 1/2-mile gallop by exercise rider Willie Delgado. California Chrome was sent earlier than normal by assistant trainer Alan Sherman so as to be fully prepared when a horse van picked up the colt at about 10 a.m. Eastern for the short ride to Lexington, from where he and 12 others would be flown to Baltimore via equine charter. ::2014 PREAKNESS STAKES: Latest news, video, and more “He’s happy, ready to go,” Sherman said as the colt was still cooling out before 7 a.m. “He’ll probably just jog [Tuesday] at Pimlico, andthen he’ll start back galloping the next day and on into the race.” Sherman said California Chrome “lost a little weight out of the [Derby], like all horses do, but he’s gained it all back and a little bit more since then. We’re just trying to keep him... ...

Cal-bred Day at Golden Gate June 8

ALBANY, Calif. (May 11, 2014) — California-bred day at Golden Gate Fields will be held Sunday, June 8. The nine-race card will include a pair of $100,000 stakes restricted to Golden State Series eligibles and a pair of maiden special weight races restricted to California-bred and sired runners. The $100,000 Campanile Stakes is for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-old fillies. Nominations close May 29. Last year’s edition was won by Unusual Way. The $100,000 Silky Sullivan Stakes is for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-olds. Nominations close May 29. Last year’s edition was won by Surfcup. Both stakes races are to be run at one mile on turf. Also on the card will be two Cal-bred maiden races that qualify for the Maiden Bonus Program: one at 5 ½ furlongs for 3-year-old fillies, one at six furlongs for 3-year-olds. ...

G. G. Ryder Takes Alcatraz

From Golden Gate Fields Publicity ALBANY, Calif. (May 11, 2014) — The promising California-bred colt G. G. Ryder earned his first stakes victory Sunday at Golden Gate Fields when he held off Pazmeifucan down the stretch and won the $75,000 Alcatraz Stakes by 1 3/4 lengths under jockey Russell Baze. Trained by Jerry Hollendorfer, G. G. Ryder took the one-mile turf race for 3-year-olds in 1:36.98 and paid $3.40 as the 3-5 favorite in a field of five. Pazmeifucan, ridden by Ricardo Gonzalez, finished three lengths in front of third-place Flagman and jockey Barrington Harvey. G. G. Ryder, who has five wins in six starts this year, improved to 2-for-2 on turf and is 3-for-6 on synthetic surfaces. “He’s an athletic colt, so I don’t think it’s going to matter too much what surface you lead him over to,” said Baze. G. G. Ryder stalked pacesetter Latitudefortytwo through honest early fractions (23.16 and 47.46), moved up to challenge for the lead midway... ...

‘Chrome’s Feet Wear Special Shoes

By DRF.com CYPRESS, Calif. (May 11, 2014) — With white hooves on all four feet, Kentucky Derby winner California Chrome always has needed a little extra attention to hoof care, and his trainer, Art Sherman, said blacksmith Judd Smith came up with a unique solution. California Chrome races in glue-on shoes, but the shoes are not glued on, they are affixed with nails. The shoe, not the glue, is the reason, Sherman said. The shoes that California Chrome wears “help so he doesn’t go back on his heels,” Sherman said. ::2014 PREAKNESS STAKES: Latest news, video, and more “All horses with four white feet are prone to needing more care because of the lack of pigmentation. The hoofs can be shellier,” Sherman said this weekend at Los Alamitos, where he is overseeing his local stable before heading to Pimlico this week for the Preakness Stakes. “It takes more effort to keep them in shape. “We’re always working on his feet. Horses with white hooves, they have a tendency to have... ...

Luscious Lonna Repeats in ‘Poppy

ALBANY, Calif. (May 11, 2014) — California-bred Luscious Lonna, a 12-1 outsider when she won the 2013 Golden Poppy Stakes, successfully defended her title in the 1 1/16-mile turf stakes as an even-money favorite Saturday at Golden Gate Fields. Just as she did 13 months ago, Luscious Lonna led from start to finish in the 2014 edition of the Golden Poppy. Trained by Nick Sloan and ridden by Juan Hernandez, Luscious Lonna scored by 1 3/4 lengths in 1:43.13 and paid $4.00. Koby Jo, ridden by Ricardo Gonzalez, took second by three-quarters of a length over Spring Bloom and jockey William Antongeorgi III. The Golden Poppy field was reduced to seven runners Saturday morning when Halo Dolly, the 8-5 morning line favorite who was coming off a third-place finish in a stakes at Santa Anita on April 26, was scratched. “We just decided that we were probably bringing her back a little too soon,” said Jerry Hollendorfer, trainer of Halo Dolly. ... ...

Sunday’s California Chrome Report

By DRF.com LOUISVILLE, Ky. (May 11, 2014) — Kentucky Derby winner California Chrome came onto the track for his daily routine early Sunday morning. Under regular exercise rider Willie Delgado, the colt spent about 20 minutes on the track, backtracking to the wire in a jog, then galloping about 1 3/4 miles. As usual, everything was accomplished rather slowly, carefully, and without incident. “I just let him take his time, do whatever he feels like,” said Delgado. “He’s a rock star. Sometimes I’ll just let him stand for 10 or 15 minutes before we do anything. I say, ‘You’re the Kentucky Derby winner. You can do what you want.’ ” ::2014 PREAKNESS STAKES: Latest news, video, and more Alan Sherman, who is deputizing here for his father, trainer Art Sherman, said he expected to have California Chrome among the first horses on the track Monday at 6 a.m. Eastern. Sherman said he wants to have everything ready for the colt to ship out of Churchill at about 10 a.m. for... ...

Saturday’s ‘Chrome Report

By DRF.com LOUISVILLE, Ky. (May 10, 2014) – Neither rain nor mud nor a slightly altered schedule could keep Kentucky Derby winner California Chrome from his appointed rounds early Saturday at Churchill Downs. Heavy overnight rain that lasted into the morning hours led assistant trainer Alan Sherman to send California Chrome out for a routine gallop shortly before 6:30 a.m. Eastern, about a half-hour earlier than usual. Under regular exercise rider Willie Delgado, the colt had no mishaps when spending about 15 minutes on a sloppy, sealed racetrack. “I didn’t want to take any chances of him having to go over a chewed-up track,” said Sherman, who is deputizing here for his father, trainer Art Sherman, before the colt leaves Monday for Baltimore and the second jewel of the Triple Crown, the 139th Preakness on May 17 at Pimlico Race Course. “He’s tolerable of any surface. He went over it just fine. He pretty much takes his racetrack with him.” Sherman said California Chrome also will gallop Sunday and Monday before... ...

Grade I Stakes Move to Los Alamitos

From Los Alamitos Race Course CYPRESS, Calif. (May 10, 2014) — Two Grade I juvenile stakes in California will have a new home in 2014. The $500,000 guaranteed Los Alamitos Futurity, formerly run as the Cash Call Futurity for 2-year-olds, and the $350,000 guaranteed Starlet for 2-year-old fillies, will now be run at Los Alamitos Race Course in 2014 after being previously held at Betfair Hollywood Park. Nomination forms for both of these events are now available at losalamitos.com and the original nominations will close on Thursday, May 15. Both will be contested at a mile and one sixteenth. Send nominations to Bob Moreno, Thoroughbred Racing Secretary at Los Alamitos Race Course. ...

‘Chrome’s Impact on California Breeding

By DRF.com ARCADIA, Calif. (May 9, 2014) — At its core, California Chrome’s Kentucky Derby victory is a “local boy makes good” story. The chestnut colt was foaled and raised at Harris Farms in Coalinga, Calif., which is also the home of his sire, Lucky Pulpit. California Chrome never raced outside of his home state until the Kentucky Derby, and even his name furthers his status as a living billboard for the statebred program. If anything else, California Chrome’s success has helped serve as a morale booster for the state’s breeding industry, which had been on a 51-year drought since Decidedly became the third California-bred to win the Kentucky Derby in 1962. He has also given the program its biggest equine celebrity since Horse of the Year Tiznow’s dominance in the early 2000s. “It’s just a tremendous boost for the breeding program here in the state,” said Doug Burge, executive vice president and general manager of the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association. “It really validates the significance of the whole Cal-bred... ...

DRF.com on ‘Chrome’s Breeders

By DRF.com LOUISVILLE, Ky. (May 9, 2014) — Katherine Martin, 83, had seen enough of her hospital room in Iron Mountain, Mich., on May 1. She was being treated for the flu but, feeling better, was ready to leave. With a better offer in Louisville, Ky., a few days later, she checked out of the hospital, despite pleading from nurses. “They told her, ‘Mrs. Martin, you could die,’ ” recalled her son, Perry Martin. “She said, ‘I know I could die, but not until I see my son’s horse in the Kentucky Derby. I’m ready, and I’m going.’ ” With that, Katherine Martin was picked up by another son and driven to Louisville. She was there when Perry Martin’s horse California Chrome won the Kentucky Derby on May 3. “She’s pretty tough,” Perry Martin said of his mother. Katherine Martin was back at home in Michigan by the end of the weekend and recovering well at home, according to her son. “She’s the hometown hero,” Perry Martin said. “She had... ...

Friday’s California Chrome Report

By DRF.com LOUISVILLE, Ky. (May 9, 2014) – It was business as usual Friday morning for Kentucky Derby winner California Chrome, who turned in another routine gallop at Churchill Downs as his prepares for the second leg of the Triple Crown, the May 17 Preakness at Pimlico in Baltimore. As is his custom, he went slowly under exercise rider Willie Delgado in his first lap around the Churchill Downs oval before picking up his pace over a gallop of approximately 1 3/4 miles Alan Sherman, assistant to his father, trainer Art Sherman, is overseeing the colt’s training with his father attending to his horses at Los Alamitos in Southern California this week. Alan Sherman said arrangements had been worked out for California Chrome to fly on a Tex Sutton flight from Lexington to Maryland Monday afternoon. He will train Monday morning at Churchill before traveling, Sherman said. The connections of California Chrome have long wanted to leave for Baltimore on Monday, rather than on Wednesday, when a flight had long been... ...

California Chrome Cracks Top-10 List

By Bloodhorse.com Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) winner California Chrome moved into the fourth position on the Longines World’s Best Racehorse Rankings off his May 3 victory in the Louisville classic. A total of three U.S.-based horses landed in the top 10 as California Chrome is joined by Santa Anita Handicap (gr. I) winner Game On Dude (ranked third), and Oaklawn Handicap (gr. II) winner Will Take Charge (tied for fifth). Two-time Horse of the Year Wise Dan, who has won a pair of grade I races this year on turf, is tied for 11th. Japan-based Just a Way, who won the Dubai Duty Free Stakes (UAE-I) by more than six lengths in March at Meydan, retains his position at the top. LONGINES World’s Best Racehorse Rankings Rank Horse Rating Trained 1 Just a Way 130 JPN 2 Variety Club 126 UAE 3 Game On Dude 125 USA 4 California Chrome 124 USA 5 African Story 123 UAE 5 Cirrus des Aigles 123 FR 5 Designs On... ...

Thursday’s ‘Chrome Report

By DRF.com LOUISVILLE, Ky. (May 8, 2014) – In his second day back training after winning the 140th Kentucky Derby last Saturday, California Chrome galloped 1 1/2 miles at Churchill Downs on Thursday as he prepares for the May 17 Preakness at Pimlico. His gallop under regular exercise rider Willie Delgado was routine and much like those he turned in before the Kentucky Derby. Settled for the first mile or so, he picked up his pace over the final half-mile. With Alan Sherman, assistant trainer to his father, Art Sherman, watching closely from the backstretch, Delgado said he didn’t even need words to describe how California Chrome felt beneath him. He just smiled at him, conveying all that needed to be communicated. “He came out of the race really good, a lot stronger than usual,” Delgado told reporters later. “It gives me chills thinking about it, if he keeps coming out of races like that.” Alan Sherman said his father, who is back in California tending to his stable at Los... ...

Haskin on California Chrome

By Steve Haskin, Bloodhorse.com LOUISVILLE, Ky. (May 7, 2014) — As I mentioned in my recap, the 2014 Kentucky Derby was about dreams and fate, an improbable hero from humble parentage, memories of Derbys long ago, and a favorite owned and trained by underdogs. In short, it was about life and its quirky twists and turns that lead us to places envisioned only in dreams and guided only by fate. Thoroughbred racing was once dubbed The Sport of Kings. Well, there are no more kings and we are trying desperately to convince the world we are still a sport. There are only mere fragments left of past dynasties, as we witnessed in last year’s Derby. For the most part, the nobility that was once racing has morphed into a sport dominated by “dumb ass partners.” Working stiffs Steve Coburn and Perry Martin are the first to admit it by branding themselves as such. The California breeding industry has for years been considered by the elitists as the other side of... ...

Halo Dolly on Verge of a Million

ALBANY, Calif. (May 7, 2014) – Halo Dolly can become the latest California-bred millionaire when she joins defending champ Luscious Lonna and fellow California-bred Spring Bloom in Saturday’s $50,000 Golden Poppy Stakes for fillies and mares at Golden Gate. Halo Dolly is by Popular, out of the Comic Strip mare Spanish Halo, was bred by Rod and Lorraine Rodriguez, is owned by Hoefflin, Hoefflin, Hollendorfer, O’Farrell, Robin, et al and is trained by Jerry Hollendorfer. She has 18 wins in 38 starts, earnings of $994,316 and is coming off a third in the Apr. 26 Fran’s Valentine. She was third in this race last year. Luscious Lonna is by Benchmark, out of the Thunder Gulch mare Striking Point, was bred by Nick Alexander, is owned by Jon Harris, Bonnie Marshall and Nicholas Sloan and is trained by Sloan. She has seven wins in 16 starts, earnings of $183,575 and is coming off a third in an Apr. 12 allowance. Spring Bloom is by After Market, out of the Bertrando mare... ...

Cal-bred Quartet in Alcatraz

ALBANY, Calif. (May 8, 2014) – Four of the five entrants in Sunday’s $75,000 Alcatraz Stakes for 3-year-olds at Golden Gate are California-breds. Flagman is by The Good Life, out of the Tychonic mare Tychonics Mistress, was bred by Jose Naranjo, is owned by Joseph Shoneff and trained by Thomas Valenzuela. He has one win in eight starts, earnings of $45,504 and is coming off a fifth in an Apr. 26 starter’s allowance. Latitudefortytwo is by Rockport Harbor, out of the Great Above mare Way Up, was bred by owner Thomas Bachman and is trained by Michael Larson. He is coming off a maiden win in his second start with earnings of $20,985. G. G. Ryder is by Chhaya Dance, out of the Storm Boot mare Stormy Gigi, was bred by Eagle Oak Ranch, is owned by jerry Hollendorfer and George Todaro and is trained by Hollendorfer. He has four wins in seven starts, earnings of $86,230 and is coming off a win in an Apr. 12... ...

She’s Stella Marie at Emerald Downs

AUBURN, Wash. (May 8, 2014) – She’s Stella Marie is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $50,000 Hastings Handicap for fillies and mares at Emerald Downs. She is by Leroidesanimaux, out of the Pleasant Colony mare Stellarina, was bred by owner Willow Creek Farm and trained by Jeffrey Metz. She has two wins in 16 starts, earnings of $40,769 and is coming off a fifth in the Feb. 15 Sun City. ...

Wednesday’s ‘Chrome Report

By DRF.com LOUISVILLE, Ky. (May 7, 2014) – Four days after winning the 140th Kentucky Derby, California Chrome finally took a victory lap around Churchill Downs. With exercise rider Willie Delgado aboard Wednesday, the chestnut colt never got out of a slow jog when going once around the one-mile oval clockwise. It was his first trip back to the track where he became the first California-bred since 1962 to win the Derby and the only horse to keep alive hope of becoming the first Triple Crown winner in 36 years. “He was on the bit and happy,” said Alan Sherman, who is deputizing here for his father, trainer Art Sherman, before the colt leaves for Baltimore and the second jewel of the Triple Crown, the 139th Preakness on May 17 at Pimlico Race Course. “He wanted to train. He was tired of walking.” Sherman said the daily routine would be notched up to galloping Thursday as California Chrome eases back into a slightly more vigorous regimen. His father, back home in... ...

Looking at ‘Chrome’s Pedigree

By DRF.com LOUISVILLE, Ky. (May 6, 2014) — Much has been written about California Chrome’s pedigree over the past three months, ever since the 3-year-old son of Golden State stallion Lucky Pulpit drew raves with a 5 1/2-length victory in the California Cup Derby on Jan. 25 at Santa Anita. The scrutiny only intensified afterward, as California Chrome in succession took the Grade 2 San Felipe Stakes and the Grade 1 Santa Anita Derby in dominant fashion to head into the Kentucky Derby as the clear favorite. Analyses of California Chrome’s breeding focused on the modest race and stud record of his sire and on the captivating, up-from-the-bootstraps tale of his owners and breeders Perry Martin and Steve Coburn, who purchased the colt’s dam, the Not for Love mare Love the Chase, for $8,000. California Chrome’s bloodlines and backstory thus only added to his outsider allure, and the colt’s authoritative 1 3/4-length win Saturday under the twin spires in Derby 140 is a rubber stamp for one of horse racing’s... ...

$250,000 NorCal Sale Bonus Offered

PLEASANTON, Calif. (May 5, 2014) – A $250,000 bonus will be paid to the registered owner at the time of nomination to any yearling that goes through the ring at the Northern California Yearling Sale and wins a Grade I race in North America at ages 2, 3 or 4 years. The registered owner will be determined according to The Jockey Club papers. This year’s Northern California Yearling Sale, which also includes horses of racing age, will be held at the Alameda County Fairgrounds on Tuesday, August 12, beginning at noon, and conducted by California Thoroughbred Breeders Association. Entries for the sale close Monday, June 9, with supplemental entries accepted until the day of sale. Click here for the entry form. For further information, contact Cookie Hackworth at 626-445-7800 ext. 243 or email cookie@ctba.com. ...

‘Chrome to Travel Next Week

By DRF.com LEXINGTON, Ky. (May 5, 2014) — A total of 21 horses were entered in the Kentucky Derby, 19 ran, and of the 18 who chased home California Chrome on Saturday at Churchill Downs, it appears only a few will try him again in the Preakness Stakes, the second leg of the Triple Crown, on May 17 at Pimlico. As of Monday, there were more newcomers to the Triple Crown trail for the Preakness than there were Derby alumni. In addition to California Chrome, the only others coming out of the Derby still under consideration to run back in the Preakness were Danza (who was third) and Ride On Curlin (seventh), with only Ride On Curlin a certainty. Terry Finley of West Point Thoroughbreds said runner-up Commanding Curve would await the Belmont. Others under consideration for the Preakness are Bayern, Dynamic Impact, Kid Cruz, Pablo Del Monte, Ring Weekend, and Social Inclusion. ::2014 PREAKNESS STAKES: Latest news, video, and more Untapable, the filly who won the Kentucky Oaks, will... ...

‘Chrome Fine Day After Historic Run

From Churchill Downs LOUISVILLE, Ky. (May 4, 2014) — The chestnut colt California Chrome carved his name in the history books Saturday afternoon at Churchill Downs, earning himself the right to sleep in until 6 o’clock Sunday morning at his Barn 20 new Kentucky home. “He’s fine,” reported the newest oldest trainer (77) to win a Kentucky Derby, Art Sherman, to an early bird gathering of media types Sunday at the barn. “He left just a handful of grain in his tub last night, but that’s all. His appetite was good. He got a little tired, but not too bad. Victor (jockey Victor Espinoza) told me yesterday that he did get a bit tired on him at the end; that he eased him a bit that last 70 yards. He said he didn’t ask him for too much thinking about saving something for the next one, for the Preakness.” Espinoza began to draw clear from his 18 rivals inside the quarter pole, but mostly kept busy aboard his mount through the lane. He popped... ...

DRF.com on Art Sherman

By DRF.com LOUISVILLE, Ky. – For trainer Art Sherman, winning the Kentucky Derby Saturday with California Chrome still hadn’t sunk in yet Sunday morning. “I’m still numb, to be honest,” he said Sunday morning. “I can’t describe it. The Kentucky Derby is the Kentucky Derby. I was so happy when we won the Santa Anita Derby, when you think of all the good horses that have won that race. That was my biggest thrill – until now. “It’s pretty cool. You wake up in the morning and go, ‘I just won the Kentucky Derby.’ It’s a dream come true for me.” With five straight wins, California Chrome will now head to Pimlico for the second leg of the Triple Crown, the May 17 Preakness Stakes. As of Sunday, it appeared he would face very few challengers from the Derby, plus several new faces to the Triple Crown. California Chrome is certain for the Preakness, and the only other possibilities from the Derby field were Commanding Curve (who finished second), Danza... ...

SI.com on California Chrome

By SI.com LOUISVILLE — This is what a horse can do on the first Saturday in May: He can make three grown men dance under a setting sun on a famous racetrack, spinning little circles in the dust, tears rolling down their cheeks. He can make a 77-year-old trainer think about dear friends who passed away long ago and embrace the improbable gift of such a success so late in life. He can make an injured jockey, his body and brain still bruised from a terrible spill, climb on a same-day flight to see his little brother ride in and win the most important horse race in the world; and then he can make that little brother cry just thinking about those less fortunate than he is. He can make two rookie owners — one a loquacious cowboy with a lucky 10-year-old hat and the other a reserved businessman who brought his 83-year-old mother to Churchill Downs for the race (and supported her fragile body from a spot on the... ...

Art Sherman’s Feel-Good Derby

By Associated Press LOUISVILLE, Ky. (May 3, 2014) — Success at the Kentucky Derby may not change Art Sherman. It just took his entire career at the racetrack to find it. The 77-year-old became the Kentucky Derby’s oldest winning trainer on Saturday thanks to his California-bred star pupil, California Chrome, who ran close with the leaders before taking charge after a mile and cruising to a nearly two-length victory. Sherman was an exercise rider 59 years ago for Swaps, who won the 1955 Derby. He visited the horse’s grave this week, praying for a chance to experience winning the marquee race himself. “I’m so thankful that I’m here,” Sherman said after the race. “I don’t think I change much anymore. I have a lot of friends on the racetrack, been around a long time.” Sherman then elicited the biggest laughter in the postrace news conference, adding, “I’m just the same old Art Sherman, you know — except, I won the Kentucky Derby.” Indeed, the old-school Sherman promised that he’d be... ...

‘Chrome’s Breeder Predicts Triple Crown

By DRF.com LOUISVILLE, Ky. (May 3, 2014) — A Kentucky Derby victory is awfully hard to top as a birthday present. But Steve Coburn, who turned 61 on Saturday, has his sights set even higher with California Chrome, the 3-year-old colt he co-bred and co-owns with Perry Martin. “I believe this horse will win the Triple Crown,” Coburn said. “It’s an incredible, incredible journey that we’ve been on,” Coburn said. “To see all this happen for my partner Perry Martin and our wives and families, to see this dream come true that we have put so much blood, sweat, and tears into, our savings, our retirements into this horse, and see this horse win the Kentucky Derby – I have no words. I really have no words.” Steve and Carolyn Coburn, who now live in Topaz Lake, Nev., and Perry and Denis Martin, who live in Yuba City, Calif., first met when Steve and Perry owned small shares in several horses through the California-based Blinkers On Racing syndicate. One of... ...

California Chrome Wins Kentucky Derby

By Bloodhorse.com LOUISVILLE, Ky. (May 3, 2014) — Derby dreams do come true. Favored California Chrome pulled clear in the stretch to win the May 3 Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) by 1 3/4 lengths over closer Commanding Curve. Danza finished third (VIDEO). The winner, ridden by Victor Espinoza, got the 1 1/4 miles in 2:03.66. Espinoza was winning his second Derby. He guided War Emblem to Derby glory in 2002. “He’s an amazing horse,” Espinoza. “He started very well. I wanted to let him go the front, but I backed off. I went to the outside early and it wasn’t a problem.” California Chrome, bred and owned by Steve Coburn and Perry Martin, is a Cal-bred son of Lucky Pulpit –Love the Chase, by Not For Love . He is trained by 77-year-old Art Sherman, who becomes the oldest trainer to win the Derby. Charlie Whittingham won the second of his two Derbys at age 76 with Sunday Silence in 1989. “He gave me the biggest thrill I’ve... ...

‘Chrome’s Connections’ Quotes

Art Sherman, trainer of California Chrome, first – “Just awesome. I’m breathless. This is so cool. I think I rode the horse with Victor (Espinoza) the last 70 yards. It was a picture-perfect ride. He was right where he should have been all the way around. Coming down the stretch I was thinking: ‘Keep rollin’ big boy. Keep rollin’.’ This has to be the sweetest moment of my life. To be my age and have something like this happen, what can you say? For all my friends in California, this is for you. We did it!” Victor Espinoza, jockey of California Chrome, first — “Awesome. I never dreamed I’d win a second Kentucky Derby, but here it is. This was a typical race for him. He ran like he always does. Art (Sherman) just said: ‘You know him, ride him.’ I had the trip I wanted. I don’t mess with him too much. I just stretch his legs and little bit and then let him do his thing. Pressure will... ...

Tribal Rule Passes at 18

From Ballena Vista Farm RAMONA, Calif. (May 2, 2014) — Leading California sire Tribal Rule died May 1 at Ballena Vista Farm as a result of a heart attack while covering a mare. At the time of his death, the 18-year-old son of Storm Cat led California’s general sire list with 2014 progeny earnings of over $1.6 million. “Itʼs a very sad day for the thoroughbred industry and more regionally here in California as Tribal Rule has ranked at the top of the sire lists year after year and he will continue to be a force in California for many years to come,” stated Ballena Vista Farm owner Donald Cohn. “My heart goes out to all that were around this magnificent horse. He was a popular sire and I wish to thank all the breeders whose continued support contributed to his success at stud. He will be buried here at Ballena Vista Farm.” With eight crops to the races numbering 568 foals, Tribal Rule has sired 36 stakes winners and earners... ...

AWESOME RETURN — $250,000 Snow Chief Stakes

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 26, 2014) – Maiden winner Awesome Return burst out of the pack turning for home and won Saturday’s $250,000 Snow Chief Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-olds on the Gold Rush card at Santa Anita. Awesome Return is by Decarchy, out of the Mr. Broad Blade mare Awesome Broad, was bred by owner Richard Kritzki, is trained by Mike Puype and was ridden by Joe Talamo. He has two wins in six starts and earnings of $211,108. “I’ve done a lot of good with the Decarchys and all my Cal-breds have been good to me, so I can’t complain,” said Puype. “Richard Kritzki is a small breeder, one or two at a time, max. He’s small, so this is very exciting for him. These races give the little guy a chance.” Awesome Return ran the 1 1/8 miles on turf in 1:48.88 and won by a length at odds of 4-1, with Patriots Rule second and Alert Bay third in a field of eight. Puype said... ...

ROVENNA — $250,000 Melair Stakes

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 26, 2014) – Rovenna outgamed Wonderful Lie in a stretch-long duel to win Saturday’s $250,000 Melair Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-old fillies on the Gold Rush card at Santa Anita and run her win streak to three. Rovenna is by Vronsky, out of the Northern Afleet mare Amadamprez, was bred by owner Donald Dizney, was trained by Michael Machowsky and ridden by Victor Espinoza. “I told Victor in the paddock, ‘Be a little aggressive and ride her like California Chrome,'” Machowsky said. “Now she’s got some seasoning, she’s getting better and better. We’re still eligible for open non-winners. With the Cal-bred program, it’s great. This is back in three weeks and I’ve always kind of spaced her races out a little bit more, but this type of money, how do you pass it up?” She has four wins in nine starts, earnings of $407,760 and was coming off a win in the Evening Jewel on Apr. 5. Rovenna ran the 1 1/16 miles in 1:43.86... ...

Pepper Crown Upsets S.F. Mile

By Brisnet.com ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 26, 2014) — California-bred Pepper Crown saved ground to the stretch and then slipped up the inside of 6-5 favorite Summer Hit in the final sixteenth to register a 46-1 shocker in the Grade 3, $100,315 San Francisco Mile at Golden Gate Fields on Saturday.A four-year-old colt bred, owned and trained by Alex Paszkeicz, Pepper Crown rated in fourth behind Summer Hit, who set fractions of :23 2/5, :47 3/5 and 1:11 4/5 over the yielding turf. When the favorite drifted left inside the final furlong, jockey Abel Cedillo sent the previously bottled-up longshot through the gap and on to victory by three quarters of a length. Pepper Crown completed the distance in 1:36 4/5 and paid $94.20. Summer Hit, runner-up by a neck in the 2013 San Francisco Mile, settled for the place again. He finished 1 3/4 lengths clear of Hudson Landing, the 2012 Mile hero. Completing the order of finish were Longview Drive, Horizontalyspeakin, Pepnic, Tribal Jewel, and Fast Track. Pepper Crown... ...

TOP KISSER — $125,000 Spring Fever Stakes

By Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 26, 2014) – Tommy Town Thoroughbreds’ homebred Top Kisser, returning froma nine-month layoff to race on dirt for the first time, ran down pacesetter Marks Mine to win Saturday’s $125,000 Spring Fever Stakes for Golden State Series eligible fillies and mares on the Gold Rush card at Santa Anita Park. Top Kisser is a 5-year-old mare by Old Topper, out of the Cherokee Run mare Cherokee Kiss, is trained by Jerry Hollendorfer and was ridden by Corey Nakatani. “We thought we had her ready,” said Hollendorfer. “She was in the clear and responded when asked to run. We got lucky and got out of the game good, too. The Tommy Town facilities (owned by Tom and Debi Stull) are real nice and we turn a lot of horses out there, so we turned her out there and gave her some time and she came back and responded.” Nakatani was riding Top Kisser for the first time. It was Top Kisser’s... ...

STORM FIGHTER — $125,000 Tiznow Stakes

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (April 26, 2014)—Golden Eagle Farm’s homebred Storm Fighter dispatched heavily favored Rousing Sermon turning for home and went on to an impressive 3 ¼ length win in Saturday’s $125,000 Tiznow Stakes for older horses bred or sired in California. Ridden by Edwin Maldonado and trained by Bruce Headley, the 4-year-old colt by Stormin Fever covered a flat mile in 1:35.06. Breaking from post position three in a field of five, Storm Fighter broke sharply and assumed command into the Club House turn and controlled the race throughout, carving out fractions of 23.20, 46.45, 1:10.00 and 1:22.30. “There was no speed in the race, so we thought we would take advantage of that,” said Maldonado. “I thought one of Hollendorfer’s horses would go with me to pressure us, but we made the lead easy and it was all him.” Off as the second choice at 5-2, Storm Fighter paid $7.60, $3.40 and $2.60. Bred by the late Larry Mabee, son of Golden Eagle founders John... ...

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