Review Category : Uncategorized

Breeders’ Cups to Santa Anita, Del Mar?

By courier-journal.com LOUISVILLE, Ky. (June 17, 2014) — The Breeders’ Cup is returning to Kentucky after what will be a four-year absence — but not to Churchill Downs. Instead, the 2015 Breeders’ Cup will be at Keeneland Race Course in Lexington. Lexington-based Breeders’ Cup Ltd. is expected to announce this month that the next three sites after this year’s running at Santa Anita Park in California, according to two sources with knowledge of the plans. Next year would be at Keeneland, followed by a return to Santa Anita in Arcadia in 2016 and then Del Mar Thoroughbred Club in San Diego in 2017, they said. A Breeders’ Cup spokesman has said the organization isn’t commenting, and several board members declined to discuss plans when called individually. Among them, Chairman Bill Farish of Lanes End Farm said an announcement is close and said it would be around June 24. It would be the first time the fall thoroughbred championships would be held at Keeneland or Del Mar — both of which... ...

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Oak Tree at Pleasanton Opens Thursday

PLEASANTON, Calif. (June 16, 2014) – Entries have been taken for Oak Tree at Pleasanton’s Opening Day this Thursday at the Alameda County Fairgrounds. 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 is sponsoring Pleasanton’s stakes schedule with the addition of $150,000. That includes the creation of three new stakes—the $100,000 Oak Tree Handicap on June 21, $100,000 Oak Tree Distaff on June 28, and $75,000 Oak Tree Sprint on... ...

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CHRB Meeting at Los Alamitos

From CHRB CYPRESS, Calif. (June 16, 2014) — The California Horse Racing Board will conduct its regular meeting Thursday, June 19, beginning at 9:30 a.m. in the Finish Line Room at Los Alamitos Race Course. The public is encouraged to attend. An audio-only webcast of the meeting can be heard through a link on the CHRB website (webcast). The agenda and supporting package of materials for these meetings also are available on the website (agenda/package). ...

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Doinghardtimeagain Returns in Desert Stormer

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 12, 2014) – Doinghardtimeagain returns from a 10-month layoff to face and fellow California-breds Warren’s Veneda and Sagebrush Queen in Sunday’s $75,000 Desert Stormer Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita. Doinghardtimeagain is by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Conquistador Cielo mare Silve Hawk Lady, was bred by owner Tommy Town Thoroughbreds and is trained by Jerry Hollendorfer. She has five wins in 11 starts, earnings of $586,740 and is making her first start since a ninth in the Aug. 17 Del Mar Oaks. Warren’s Veneda is by Affirmative, out of the Flying Continental mare More Cal Bread, was bred by owner Benjamin Warren and is trained by Craig Lewis. She has five wins in 13 starts, earnings of $321,064 and is coming off a fourth in the May 18 Adoration. Sagebrush Queen is by Unbridled Energy, out of the Tough Knight mare Nite Moon, was bred by Oak Hill Farm, is owned by Larry Konecne and Sandi Mattei and is trained by Jorge Gutierrez.... ...

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Pepnic Enters at Emerald Downs

AUBURN, Wash. (June 12, 2014) – Pepnic is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $50,000 Budweiser Handicap at Emerald Downs. Pepnic is by Peppered Cat, out of the Tychonic mare Prochonic, was bred by Alex Paszkeicz, is owned by David Taylor, Jr. and is trained by Tim McCanna. He has five wins in 25 starts, earnings of $220,106 and is coming off a second in a May 17 optional claimer. ...

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La Mano Nera at Canterbury

SHAKOPEE, Minn. (June 12, 2014) – La Mano Nera is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $75,000 Dark Star Stakes at Canterbury Park. La Mano Nera is by Marino Marini, out of the Iz a Saros mare Iza Bay, was bred by J. Chance Kruljac, is owned by TG Racing, Charles Garvey, Randy Howg and Rick Wiest and is trained by Robertino Diodoro. He has five wins in 20 starts, earnings of $155,428 and is coming off a May 31 optional claiming win. ...

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Unusual Way Enters Vanity

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 11, 2014) – Multiple stakes winner Unusual Way is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $300,000 Grade I Vanity Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita. Unusual Way is by Unusual Heat, out of the Great Above mare Way Up, was bred by Thomas Bachman, is owned by Edward Brown, Jr. and Philip Lebherz and is trained by Jeff Bonde. She has five wins in 17 starts, earnings of $691,960 and is coming off a fourth in the Apr. 26 Fran’s Valentine. Also entered is Let Faith Arise, a Kentucky-bred daughter of California stallion Kafwain with earnings of $470,240. ...

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Pulpit’s Express in Shoemaker

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 11, 2014) – Pulpit’s Express is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $400,000 Grade I Shoemaker Mile Stakes at Santa Anita. Pulpit’s Express is by Lucky Pulpit, out of the General Meeting mare Chocolate Meeting, was bred by Dutton/Kessler, is owned by Gary and Cecil Barber and is trained by John Sadler. He has four wins in 20 starts, earnings of $149,830 and is coming off a May 26 optional claiming win. ...

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Cal-bred Quartet in Albany

ALBANY, Calif. (June 11, 2014) – Multiple stakes winner Ain’t No Other is one of four California-breds entered in Saturday’s $50,000 Albany Stakes at Golden Gate. Ain’t No Other is by Old Topper, out of the Shadeed mare Miami Margie, was bred by owner Tommy Town Thoroughbreds and is trained by Jerry Hollendorfer. He has 10 wins in 24 starts, earnings of $568,195 and is coming off a win in a May 18 optional claimer. Zehner’s Zenna is by Old Topper, out of the Zen mare Ms Zenna, was bred by Tommy Town Thoroughbreds, is owned by Stewball Stable and trained by Valeria Rhoden. He has six wins in 39 starts, earnings of $214,486 and is coming off a fifth in a May 26 allowance. Stakes winner A Toast to You is by Tribal Rule, out of the Apollo mare Whitewinesipper, was bred by Hidden Meadows Farm, is owned by Steve Moger and trained by Ed Moger, Jr. He has eight wins in 26 starts, earnings of $449,062 and is... ...

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California Chrome’s Swaps Connection

By Bloodhorse.com Just more than 60 years ago a trim California-bred with unorthodox connections came East to shock the racing establishment by scoring an upset win in the 1955 Kentucky Derby. His name was Swaps, and he took a couple of “cowboys”—owner Rex Ellsworth and trainer Mesh Tenney, whose ultra-practical style of Western horsemanship didn’t sit well with Eastern racing men and sportswriters—to the heights of American racing. Swaps also earned Horse of the Year honors as a 4-year-old in 1956. Art Sherman was along for the ride when Swaps came east to knock off Eastern favorites Nashua and Summer Tan—literally along for the ride, as he shared Swaps’ boxcar on the way to Louisville and exercised the Derby winner prior to the big race. The following year he was Swaps’ regular exercise rider, and the year after that he took out his jockey’s license. A couple of decades later he became a trainer, and that’s what he’s been doing ever since. Fast forward to 2014, and perhaps Swaps’ ghost... ...

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She’s Ordained Enters Dashing Beauty

WILMINGTON, Del. (June 9, 2014) — She’s Ordained is the lone California-bred entered in Thursday’s $50,000 Dashing Beauty Stakes for fillies and mares at Delaware Park. 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 34 starts, earnings of $365,525 and is coming off a fourth in the May 16 Skipat Stakes. ...

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Novak on the Belmont

By Clare Novak, Bloodhorse.com ELMONT, N.Y. (June 6, 2014) — We come to this place in search of greatness. Through the echoing halls and spacious tree-lined Belmont Park backstretch we roam, and in the days before the Belmont Stakes (gr. I) we wonder—could this horse be the one? With every potential winner, every story of assorted connections and the paths they took to get here; our faith begins to rise. Something about every Triple Crown hopeful, every year with our sport’s greatest prize on the line, gives most of us that inkling. Surely, it is time. If California Chrome gallops around the sweeping turns of Big Sandy June 7 and into hundreds upon thousands of hearts as the 12th Triple Crown winner in history and the first since 1978, it will be against the reputation of the modern Thoroughbred—that fragile beast who dazzles with great performances but just as quickly disappoints, then vanishes to greener pastures. ANGST: Waiting, and Waiting, for Crowning Glory If 77-year-old trainer Art Sherman finds the Belmont winner’s... ...

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Friday’s California Chrome Report

By Bloodhorse.com ELMONT, N.Y. (June 6, 2014) — Few who were present will forget the Friday morning before the Belmont Stakes (gr. I) of 2012, when Triple Crown hopes were dashed with the injury of I’ll Have Another  . So members of the media joined Team Sherman and the connections of California Chrome in breathing a sigh of relief on that same day two years later June 6. The winner of the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) and the Preakness Stakes (gr. I) completed his final gallop with flying colors leading into the June 7 test. Only one more morning to go. California Chrome made his usual journey to the Belmont Park oval under exercise rider William Delgado, swinging through the paddock to school before continuing out for a routine gallop under the supervision of assistant trainer Alan Sherman. He was followed by the usual media throng that assembles to track the pre-race progress of a Triple Crown hopeful, but never turned a hair. “We took him to... ...

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Belmont Betting at Cal Expo

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (June 6, 2014) — Cal Expo will be hosting the party of the week on Saturday, June 7, when California Chrome runs in the Belmont Stakes and attempts to become the first horse from California to win the Triple Crown. Purchase a special $38 admission ticket and come enjoy this historic day with us in the newly renovated and air conditioned Sports and Wagering Center Club House with a gourmet breakfast, buffet lunch, official racing program, reserved seating and much more. Cal Expo is the only location in our area you can officially place wagers on the Belmont Stakes. Be a part of the excitement with other racing enthusiasts at the newest racetrack in California. California Chrome will attempt to make history by becoming the first horse since 1978 (Affirmed) to win the Triple Crown. A California horse has never won the Triple Crown guaranteeing excitement for Saturday’s race.  California Chrome was foaled on February 18, 2011 in Coalinga, California at Harris Farms. He has been noted for... ...

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‘Chrome Schools at Belmont Gate

By DRF.com ELMONT, N.Y. (June 5, 2014) — California Chrome schooled at the starting gate for the second and final time June 5 at rainy Belmont Park as his date with destiny in the $1.5 million Belmont Stakes (gr. I) draws closer. At 6:30 a.m., California Chrome set foot on Belmont Park’s main track and jogged approximately 1 3/8 miles clockwise before arriving at the starting gate in the 1 1/8-mile chute on the backstretch. There he stood in the gate, backed out, and began an easy 1 1/4-mile gallop outside the cones that had been placed on the muddy main track. “He was perfect in there (the gate),” said Alan Sherman, assistant to his father, trainer Art Sherman. California Chrome has won six straight races, including the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands and Preakness (both gr. I). He is attempting to become the 12th thoroughbred in history to win the Triple Crown and first since Affirmed in 1978. Sherman said California Chrome, who is owned by Steve Coburn... ...

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Hovdey on California Chrome

By Jay Hovdey, DRF.com ELMONT, N.Y. (June 5, 2014) — The melting point of chromium is 3,465 degrees Fahrenheit, 1,857 degrees Centigrade, or 20 minutes spent in an underground New York City garage on a warm weekday evening waiting for someone to find your rental car. If California Chrome wins the Belmont Stakes on Saturday to become the 12th winner of the Triple Crown, he will have withstood more heat and more pressure than any American Thoroughbred since Affirmed said “no means no” to Alydar 36 years ago. ::2014 BELMONT STAKES: Latest news, video, PPs, and more If California Chrome wins, he will honor the Triple Crown heartbreaks of Silver Charm being ambushed in the last yards by Touch Gold, of Real Quiet nipped at the very end by Victory Gallop, of Smarty Jones, that most generous of Thoroughbreds, fighting back a wave of attacks until he had nothing left to answer Birdstone. If California Chrome wins, he should get the key to every city with a racetrack, every town... ...

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Layoffs Key in Crystal Water

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 5, 2014) – John Scott makes his first start since winning this race last year, and Ethnic Dance makes his first start since winning last year’s Del Mar Derby, in Sunday’s $100,000 Crystal Water Stakes for Golden State Series eligibles at Santa Anita. Rousing Sermon is by Lucky Pulpit, out of the Awesome Again mare Rousing Again, was bred by owners Mr. and Mrs. Larry Williams and is trained by Jerry Hollendorfer. He has five wins in 27 starts, earnings of $735,092 and is coming off a second in the Apr. 26 Tiznow Stakes. Jules Journey is a Kentucky-bred by Good Journey, who was standing in California, out of the Flag Down mare Flag Down the Mint, was bred by Sean & Barbara Speck, is owned by James Cassidy and Mary DeLahut and is trained by Cassidy. He has three wins in 17 starts, earnings of $197,490 and is coming off a second in a May 10 optional claimer. He was third in this race last year.... ...

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Snow Chief Winner in Silky Sullivan

ALBANY, Calif. (June 5, 2014) – Snow Chief Stakes winner Awesome Return is one of three stakes winners entered in 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 has two wins in six starts, earnings of $201,108 and is coming off a win in the Apr. 26 Snow Chief Stakes. Stakes winner Alert Bay is by City Zip, out of the Dushyantor mare Hickory, was bred by Thomas Bell and Ross McLeod, is owned by Peter Redekop and trained by Blaine Wright. He has three wins in seven starts, earnings of $215,300 and is coming off a third in the Apr. 26 Snow Chief Stakes Stakes winner Aotearoa is by Good Journey, out of the Lil Tyler mare Madera Royal, was bred by owner Paul Viskovich and is trained by Leonard Powell. He has two wins in eight... ...

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Compact Field for Campanile

ALBANY, Calif. (June 5, 2014) – All five entrants will be seeking their first stakes win in Sunday’s 100,000 Campanile Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-old fillies at Golden Gate. Versye is by Square Eddie, out of the Jade Hunter mare Sarah Jade, was bred by owner J. Paul Reddam and is trained by Doug O’Neill. She has one win in three starts, earnings of $34,050 and is coming off a sixth in a May. 22 optional claimer. Shakeitupbetty is by Ghostzapper, out of the Is It True mare Ring True, was bred by Thomas Bachman, is owned by Seltzer Thoroughbreds and trained by J. Eric Kruljac. She has two wins in five starts, earnings of $91,720 and is coming off a win in a May 1 optional claimer. Chati’s On Top is by Old Topper, out of the Globalize mare Chati Valley, was bred by Bill Delia, H.C. Martin and Ray Pagano, is owned by Little Red Feather Racing and Marcia Naify and is trained by Mike Puype.... ...

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‘Chrome’s Connections Hit Big Apple

By Bloodhorse.com NEW YORK, N.Y. — On his first day ever in New York, Steve Coburn, part owner and breeder of California Chrome, was interviewed by NBC and spent the rest of the time as a tourist. “It’s been go, go, go since we got here” for Coburn and his wife, Carolyn, who took a tour of Rockefeller Center and the Empire State building on June 3. They are in the city to see California Chrome take aim at the Belmont Stakes (gr. I) June 7 at Belmont Park attempting to become the first Triple Crown winner since Affirmed in 1978. Coburn arrived in New York by jet along with trainer Art Sherman the afternoon of June 2 and spent his first night adjusting to the time change from the West Coast. Coburn and his wife reside in Topaz Lake, NV., where he is a press operator for a small company that makes magnetic strips for credit cards. Sherman accompanied the Coburns on the interview and also went sightseeing with them. The... ...

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Jerardi on California Chrome

By Dick Jerardi, DRF.com ELMONT, N.Y. (June 4, 2014) — I am not quite sure what Spectacular Bid, Silver Charm, Real Quiet, and Smarty Jones have to do with Saturday’s Belmont Stakes, other than that their names will get typed thousands of times this week as reasons why California Chrome can’t win. I am going to give you the most obvious reason why he can win: California Chrome is the best horse. So, let’s start there and forget the history. Whenever anybody cites history in sporting events, I cringe. I don’t care what happened between Auburn and Alabama in 1986. I want to know who is playing today. I will evaluate these players and these coaches. So, let’s evaluate the Belmont Stakes in the context of 2014. Let’s not be afraid of what happened in 1979, 1997, 1998, or 2004. California Chrome has won six consecutive stakes, four graded, three Grade 1s. He has earned three Beyer Speed Figures of 105 or more. The likely opposition has won a combined... ...

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Stabling at Fairplex Park Extended

By Bloodhorse.com POMONA, Calif. (June 3, 2014) — Fairplex Park will remain open as part of Southern California’s off-site stabling through the Breeders’ Cup World Champions this fall rather than closing July 10 as earlier planned. California’s stabling and vanning committee met June 3 and agreed unanimously to the extension, in part so that local horsemen would have plenty of stabling during the Breeders’ Cup when many shippers arrive. The Breeders’ Cup is set for Oct. 31-Nov. 1 at Santa Anita Park. After Betfair Hollywood Park closed last year, the horses that stabled there year-round had to find other accommodations. The industry worked to have 500 stalls available at each of three locations–Fairplex in Pomona, Los Alamitos in Cypress, and San Luis Rey Downs in Bonsall, with the idea of phasing out Fairplex as Los Alamitos and San Luis Rey Downs built additional stalls. However, during the Del Mar meeting, which will open July 17, Santa Anita will be closed for training so that it can complete construction projects that... ...

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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 ...

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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.   ...

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Storm Fighter Enters Californian

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 29, 2014) — Storm Fighter is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $200,000 Grade II Californian Stakes at Santa Anita. Storm Fighter is by Stormin Fever, out of the Deputy Commander mare Throne Seeker, was bred by Larry Mabee, is owned by Golden Eagle Farm and trained by Bruce Headley. He has three wins in seven starts, earnings of $159,718 and is coming off a win in the Apr. 26 Tiznow Stakes. ...

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The Spinmeister Wins for Heatseeker

EDMONTON, Canada — 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.   ...

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Cyclometer Runs in Los Angeles ‘Cap

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 24, 2014) — Cyclometer is the lone California-bred entered in Monday’s $100,000 Grade III Los Angeles Handicap at Santa Anita.   Cyclometer is by Cyclotron, out of the Eastern Echo mare Moana Loa, was bred by owners Bruce Headley, Irwin Molasky and Andrew Molasky and is trained by Headley.   He has five wins in 20 starts, earnings of $357,004 and is coming off a third in the Apr. 12 Potrero Grande. ...

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Summer Hit Seeks Second All American

ALBANY, Calif. (May 24, 2014) – Defending champion Summer Hit and fellow California-breds China Prince, Pepper Crown and Minister Vivendi are entered in Monday’s $100,000 Grade III All American Stakes at Golden Gate. Summer Hit is by Bertrando, out of the Tough Knight mare Mia F Eighteen, was bred by Kenneth and Janice Heidt, is owned by John Carver and Jerry Hollendorfer and is trained by Hollendorfer. He has 10 wins in 19 starts, earnings of $472,219 and is coming off a second in the Apr. 26 San Francisco Mile Stakes. He won this race last year. China Prince is by Peppered Cat, out of the Corslew mare China Princess, was bred by Baljit Singh, is owned by West Point Thoroughbreds and trained by Craig Dollase. He has four wins in 13 starts, earnings of $177,028 and is coming off a third in the Ape. 26 Tiznow. Pepper Crown is by Peppered Cat, out of the Crowning Storm mare Crown This Lady, was bred by owner and breeder Alex Paszkeicz.... ...

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Cal-bred Trio in Mizdirection

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 22, 2014) — Back-to-back stakes winner Tribal Spy and fellow California-breds Qiaona and Top Kisser are entered in Sunday’s $75,000 Mizdirection Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita. Tribal Spy is by Tribal Rule, out of the Victory Gallop mare Victory Spy, was bred by Gary Barber, is owned by Triple B Farms and trained by Adam Kitchingman. She has six wins in 15 starts, earnings of $298,610 and is coming off consecutive stakes wins. Qiaona is by Wilko, out of the Skywalker mare Starlet Sky, was bred by B & B Zietz Stables, is owned by Curt and Lila Lanning and trained by Ed Moger Jr. She has four wins in 17 starts, earnings of $446,244 and is making her first start since a fourth in the Nov. 17 Cat’s Cradle. Top Kisser is by Old Topper, out of the Cherokee Run mare Cherokee Kiss, was bred by owner Tommy Town Thoroughbreds and trained by Jerry Hollendorfer. She has five wins in nine starts, earnings of... ...

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CHRB Agenda Change

From CHRB ARCADIA, Calif. (May 20, 2014) — The proposal to move Los Angeles County Fair racing dates to Los Alamitos Race Course,  originally scheduled for discussion and possible action at this Thursday’s meeting of the California Horse Racing Board at Santa Anita Park, has been removed from the agenda and will be rescheduled for consideration at the June 19 Board meeting at Los Alamitos. The agenda for the June 19 meeting will be posted on the CHRB website (agendas) no later than June 9. ...

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Soi Phet Enters Whittingham

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 21, 2014) — Soi Phet is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $200,000 Grade II Charles Whittingham Handicap at Santa Anita. Soi Phet is by Tizbud, out of the Siberian Summer mare Summer Jersey, was bred by ARCHA Racing, is owned by Gerald Benowitz and Sandra Powell, Paul and Mathilde Viskovich and is trained by Leonard Powell. He has five wins in 24 starts, earnings of $272,026 and is coming off a fifth in the Apr. 26 Tiznow Stakes. ...

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Warren’s Venedalucy Enters First Lady

RUIDOSO DOWNS, N.M. (May 21, 2014) — Warren’s Venedalucy is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $50,000 First Lady Handicap for fillies and mares at Ruidoso Downs. Warrne’s Venedalucy is by Doc Gus, out of the Carson City mare State the Obvious, was bred by Benjamin Warren, is owned by Ace Racing Stable and trained by Justin Evans. She has six wins in 26 starts, earnings of $151,384 and is coming off a fifth in the Apr. 5 Czarina Stakes. ...

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Nasal Strip Decision by Tuesday

By DRF.com ELMONT, N.Y. (May 18, 2014) — A decision on whether dual classic winner California Chrome will be permitted to use nasal strips when he bids for the Triple Crown in the June 7 Belmont Stakes should be made by Tuesday, according to a New York Racing Association official. Martin Panza, NYRA’s senior vice president of racing operations, said he put Art Sherman, trainer of Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner California Chrome, in touch with the stewards at 3:45 p.m. Eastern,  at which time Sherman formally requested permission to use nasal strips on California Chrome in the Belmont, Panza said. A decision was expected within 24 to 48 hours, Panza added. California Chrome has worn nasal strips in each of his last six starts – including victories in the Kentucky Derby and Preakness. On Sunday morning, Art Sherman, the trainer of California Chrome, was surprised to hear that he may not be permitted to use nasal strips on his horse in the Belmont. He even went so far to... ...

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‘Chrome Nasal Strip a Belmont Issue?

By Bloodhorse.com BALTIMORE, Md. (May 18, 2014) — The connections of California Chrome will ask New York regulators and stewards for permission to race the winner of the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands and Preakness Stakes (both gr. I) with a nasal strip in the June 7 Belmont Stakes (gr. I). Steve Coburn and Perry Martin’s California Chrome was equipped with a Flair Nasal Strip, which is said to aid a horse’s breathing by opening the nasal passages, for his last six races, which he won. The Lucky Pulpit   colt now has a shot to become the first Triple Crown winner since 1978. The issue was first raised by Daily Racing Form in light of a similar situation in 2012. New York regulators said I’ll Have Another  , who also won the first two legs of the Triple Crown, couldn’t wear a nasal strip in the Belmont; it became a moot point when the colt was scratched a few days before the race. Whether or not a horse can compete... ...

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Race Day ‘Chrome Report

By DRF.com BALTIMORE, Md. (May 17, 2014)  – California Chrome took one easy lap around the Pimlico oval on a lovely Saturday morning as his connections put the finishing touches on preparations for the Preakness Stakes here later in the afternoon. The Kentucky Derby winner, in appearance and demeanor, did nothing to suggest he won’t give a spirited performance seeking to add the Triple Crown’s second leg to his already burgeoning war chest. A current of energy rippled below California Chrome’s composed comportment. The colt’s chestnut coat remains radiant. He has held good weight two weeks after winning the Derby in decisive fashion. He is neither thin nor heavy. His muscle tone is formidable. He is the picture of an exceptional athlete in full bloom. California Chrome arrived here Monday afternoon from Churchill Downs, and other than generating a flurry of speculative reports when he coughed after training Thursday morning, has had an uneventful five days here. The minor furor over the reportedly inconsequential throat blister that caused the cough has... ...

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CHRB Meetings Advisory

From CHRB ARCADIA, Calif. (May 17, 2014) — The California Horse Racing Board will conduct its regular meeting beginning at 9:30 a.m. Thursday, May 22, and the Southern California Race Dates and Stabling Oversight Committee will meet at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 21, both in the Baldwin Terrace Room at Santa Anita Park. The public is encouraged to attend these meetings. An audio-only webcast of Thursday’s Board meeting can be heard through a link on the CHRB website (webcast). The agenda and supporting package of materials for these meetings are available on the website (agendas and packages). ...

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Warren’s Veneda in Adoration

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 16, 2014) — Warren’s Veneda is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $100,000 Grade III Adoration Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita.   Warren’s Veneda is by Affirmative, out of the Flying Continental mare More Cal Bread, was bred by owner Benjamin Warren and is trained by Craig Lewis.   She has five wins in 12 starts, earnings of $315,064 and is coming off a third in the Apr. 26 Spring Fever Stakes.   Also entered is Let Faith Arise, a Kentucky-bred daughter of California stallion Kafwain, bred by owners Tommy Town Thoroughbreds, with five wins in 11 starts, and earnings of $410,240. ...

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‘Chrome has Throat Blister

By Bloodhorse.com BALTIMORE, Md. (May 15, 2014) — Connections from the camp of Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) winner California Chrome were quick to dispel rumors that the Preakness Stakes (gr. I) favorite was becoming ill the morning of May 15 at Pimlico Race Course. Alan Sherman, assistant to trainer Art Sherman, said California Chrome does have a small blister in his throat, but bloodwork and a scope revealed it to be a minor issue with no further complications likely. The colt had the blister before the Kentucky Derby and it went away, but came back recently. “The horse is completely fine,” Sherman reported. “His bloodwork came back perfect, he coughed about four times today and we got him checked out right away. The blister isn’t going to affect him at all; the vet said there were absolutely no other problems, nothing else going on.” California Chrome is being treated with a glycerin throat wash to coat the irritated area. “He had it going into the Derby... ...

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Martins to Skip Preakness

By Sacramento Bee SACRAMENTO, Calif. — California Chrome will have to win this one without Perry and Denise Martin watching from the grandstand. While their golden colt continues his assault on the Triple Crown, they’re sitting out the Preakness Stakes. “Based on our experience at Churchill Downs, Perry and I will certainly be needing a break from our jobs and the excitement of managing Chrome to the Derby,” Denise Martin said. “Our family will be watching the Preakness from an undisclosed location.” The Kentucky Derby apparently took more out of the co-owners and breeders from Yuba City than the winner. They’re exhausted. After their whirlwind trip to Louisville, the Martins had plenty of work waiting for them at their testing lab at McClellan Park in Sacramento. Their horse? He’s doing great and appears ready for Saturday’s $1.5 million race. California Chrome, the Cinderella colt with humble roots, continues his pursuit of becoming the first Triple Crown winner in 36 years. Only two Derby also-rans followed California Chrome from Kentucky to... ...

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Santa Anita Cancels Thursday Card

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (May 14, 2014) —Santa Anita Park has canceled live racing for Thursday, May 15, due to the effects of extremely dry conditions and temperatures that are expected to be more than 30 degrees above normal. The Arcadia, Calif., track will be open as planned for simulcast wagering on Thursday.  Although unseasonably hot temperatures are forecasted throughout Southern California that day, a cooling trend is expected to arrive May 16. Average temperatures for the month of May in Arcadia are usually in the mid-70s range, but Thursday’s projected high is a record-breaking 108 degrees, which presents clear challenges for both human and equine athletes. “In consultation with all of our stakeholders, the Thoroughbred Owners of California, California Thoroughbred Trainers, and the Jockey’s Guild, we feel it is best to cancel Thursday and resume racing as originally scheduled on Friday,” said Santa Anita president Tom Ludt in a release. “The good news is that beginning Friday, temperatures are expected to cool and with our twilight first post time... ...

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California Chrome Draws Post 3

By Bloodhorse.com BALTIMORE, Md. (May 14, 2014) — Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) winner California Chrome drew post 3 for the $1.5 million Preakness Stakes (gr. I) at Pimlico Race Course May 17. Owned by breeders Steve Coburn and Perry Martin, California Chrome will be ridden again by Victor Espinoza. The California-bred was assigned morning-line odds of 3-5 by Pimlico oddsmaker Keith Feustle in the 10-horse field. “I feel good,” trainer Art Sherman said after the post draw early in the evening of May 14. “I don’t think post 3 will be an hindrance to him. Victor is a patient rider; he can play it by ear when the gates open.” The colt by Lucky Pulpit   drew inside most of the horses expected to break quickly for early position in the 1 3/16-mile Preakness. But California Chrome doesn’t need the lead to win and is especially comfortable under Espinoza, who has ridden him to victory in his past five starts. Sherman indicated the fact the colt is so heavily... ...

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Wednesday’s ‘Chrome Report

  BALTIMORE, Md. (May 14, 2014) — Trainer Art Sherman was typically upbeat Wednesday morning after watching his Kentucky Derby (G1) winner California Chrome gallop 1 1/2 miles in preparation for Saturday’s 139th Preakness Stakes (G1) at Pimlico Race Course. Sherman spent nine days between the Derby and the Preakness in California supervising his stable based at Los Alamitos, while his son, Alan, oversaw the daily training of California Chrome. Art Sherman, 77, inspected the horse after flying to Baltimore Tuesday and watched him gallop under exercise rider Willie Delgado Wednesday shortly before 7 a.m. on a gray, damp, chilly morning. “I thought it was a good gallop,” Sherman said. “He looked around quite a bit the first time around like he usually does. He’s a very inquisitive horse. Then he took a hold of the bit and was pulling pretty good the next time around. That’s his style and the way he gallops every day.” California Chrome won the Derby impressively over a track surface that Sherman and his son... ...

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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... ...

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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. ...

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‘Chrome On Track This Morning

By DRF.com LOUISVILLE, Ky. (May 3, 2014) — Steve Coburn knew when he saw the newborn colt. “I saw this baby twice,” the co-owner of California Chrome said. “Once in a dream, and then the day after he was born.” Since the chestnut colt with the white face hit the ground Feb. 18, 2011, the clock has been ticking down to today. Tick-tock. On Saturday morning, California Chrome went for an easy one-mile jog with exercise rider Willie Delgado aboard, the sun just beginning to brighten the twin spires as they loomed over the Kentucky Derby favorite. More than three years of planning, now just over 12 hours to post. Tick-tock. The colt walks back to Barn 20, his home for the last week since arriving with trainer Art Sherman to intense media scrutiny. He disappears into the shed row. He won’t leave the stable area again until just before 6 p.m., when the call comes for the 19 Derby horses to assemble in the chute for the walkover. Across... ...

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‘Chrome Early 3-1 Betting Favorite

By DRF.com LOUISVILLE, Ky. (May 2, 2014)  – After the close of ontrack wagering Friday, Santa Anita Derby winner California Chrome was the 3-1 favorite in advance wagering for Saturday’s Kentucky Derby, with Wood Memorial winner Wicked Strong and Arkansas Derby winner Danza co-second choices at 8-1. Ride On Curlin, to be ridden by three-time Kentucky Derby-winning jockey Calvin Borel, was next at 12-1 odds, followed closely by Louisiana Derby runner-up Intense Holiday at 13-1. These odds reflected only wagers made onsite at Churchill Downs, perhaps reflecting the popularity of Ride On Curlin, with Borel being a local favorite. The Kentucky Oaks/Kentucky Derby double will-pays largely mirrored the Derby win wagering, with the payoff to California Chrome reflecting the shortest payoff at $11.40, following by the combination to Wicked Strong at $39.60 and to Danza at $44.60. Ontrack handle on the Kentucky Derby was $202,807 by the close of wagering Friday, with offtrack wagers not yet incorporated. The handle reflects only a tiny fraction of the total amount that ultimately will... ...

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Sherman Hoping ‘Chrome’s a Hero

By Bloodhorse.com LOUISVILLE, Ky. (May 2, 2014) — Let Art Sherman write the story for you. “We need heroes right now, and I’m hoping he’s one of them,” the 77-year-old trainer of California Chrome said his first morning at Churchill Downs while reporters circled, the cameras rolled, and his flashy chestnut colt became the talk of the backstretch. Here was Sherman, once the exercise rider for 1955 Kentucky Derby winner Swaps and a 60-year veteran of the sport, standing up on a mounting block to address the scrum—funny how life comes around. And here was California Chrome, handling his first cross-country trip with his usual intelligence, about to be installed as the 5-2 favorite in a 19-horse field. “All the years you put into this game, this would just be a dream come true to win,” Sherman said. “But at the same time I’m very satisfied with my career. I never made it in the big, big horses, but I’ve won a lot of graded stakes, always had fun, a lot... ...

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Thursday Update from Churchill Downs

From Churchill Downs CALIFORNIA CHROME – The morning-line favorite for the Kentucky Derby, Steve Coburn and Perry Martin’s California Chrome, went trackside Thursday morning at 6:55 as hundreds of cameras clicked and video rolled. The handsome chestnut colt stopped and took it all in, then did the same several times more as he backtracked his way to the frontside and under the iconic Twin Spires at Churchill Downs, before heading up the tunnel way to the paddock to “school,” just as he had the day before. Following his paddock tour, exercise rider Willy Delgado took the colt to the starting gate for a nice stand. “Willy told me he did fine in the gate,” trainer Art Sherman said afterward. The 77-year-old conditioner had watched his charge go about his morning business from the second floor of the old clocker’s stand on the backstretch near the five-furlong gap. “He’s usually fine in there, but sometimes he hesitates going in. He was fine today.” Following the gate education, Delgado put the California-bred... ...

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Hovdey on California Chrome

By Jay Hovdey, DRF.com LOUISVILLE, Ky. (May 1, 2014) — In his preview of the 1958 Kentucky Derby for Sports Illustrated, Whitney Tower took a step back from the hoopla surrounding the exciting California favorite to shed a little calm on the proceedings. “Silky’s accomplishments, belittled in some quarters, exaggerated in others, have placed him in the unique position of being a full-fledged hero before his supreme trial,” Tower wrote. “As a California phenomenon – in a land where phenomena are not uncommon – Silky Sullivan is more popular than the Los Angeles Dodgers, the San Francisco Giants and even, as one Santa Anita regular dared to suggest recently, ‘more popular than Swaps ever was.’ ” In a way, it is comforting to realize that all things pertaining to the Kentucky Derby were just as insanely exaggerated 56 years ago as they are in 2014. The social media of that bygone era – better known then as newspapers, corner bars and a smattering of network TV – were captivated heart... ...

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Post No. 5 for California Chrome

By Bloodhorse.com LEXINGTON, Ky. (Apr. 30, 2014) —  California Chrome, the morning line favorite for the May 3 Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) drew post 5 for the 1 1/4-mile Run for the Roses. The California-bred colt will be ridden by Victor Espinoza and face 19 fellow 3-year-olds in the $2 million Run for the Roses. Art Sherman trains California Chrome for breeder/owners Steve Coburn and Perry Martin. The son of Lucky Pulpit  —Love the Charm, by Not For Love  , has won all three of his starts at 3 by a combined 18 lengths. He was installed the 5-2 morning line favorite. Sherman, at 77, would become the oldest trainer to win the Derby, surpassing the legendary Charlie Whittingham who won his second Derby with Sunday Silence in 1989 at age 76. California Chrome has won six of 10 starts, all in Southern California, and has earned $1,134,850. He will be attempting to become the first Cal-bred winner of the Derby since Decidedly in 1962. Sherman was an exercise... ...

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Kentucky Derby Draw Today

From Churchill Downs LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Apr. 30, 2014) – Through various sources, the Churchill Downs communications team has confirmed that 21 horses are known to have been entered in Saturday’s $2 million Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands.         The horses known to be entered in the Kentucky Derby are (in order of preference by points earned on the “Road to the Kentucky Derby Presented by TwinSpires.com): California Chrome, Vicar’s in Trouble, Dance With Fate, Wicked Strong, Samraat, Danza, Hoppertunity, Intense Holiday, Wildcat Red, We Miss Artie, Ride On Curlin, Chitu, Tapiture, General a Rod, Medal Count, Candy Boy, Uncle Sigh, Vinceremos, Harry’s Holiday and Commanding Curve. Pablo Del Monte would be on the “also eligible” list. Big Bazinga, who would have been behind Pablo Del Monte on the “also eligible” list was not entered in the Derby and instead will run in the $250,000 American Turf Presented by Ram Trucks (GII).   The “also eligible” horses could draw into the field should any horse(s) be scratched before scratch... ...

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Hovdey on California Chrome’s Groom

By Jay Hovdey, DRF.com LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Apr. 29, 2014) — Art Sherman was seeing to a few last-minute items around the barn late Sunday morning before sending California Chrome to Kentucky. He was outwardly calm, if by calm one means checking his phone every 30 seconds to see who’s calling now, or glancing furtively at the computer screen images from the closed-circuit cameras in California Chrome’s stall. He made sure the colt’s bag of horse treats were by the door, ready to ship, then picked up a bundle of clothes. “Alan’s – can you believe that?” Sherman said. “At his age, sending laundry home for his mom. And she’ll do it, too!” This was a trainer on the verge of a life-changing event, if indeed your life can be changed significantly by anything at the age of 77. Art and Faye Sherman, who renewed their vows on their 50th anniversary two years ago aboard a ship off the coast of Spain, would be leaving the next day for Kentucky and... ...

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DRF.com on Art Sherman

By DRF.com LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Apr. 29, 2014) – The first time Art Sherman came to the Kentucky Derby, in 1955, it was as a stable hand for trainer Mesh Tenney, and he traveled from California by railcar, sleeping on straw, next to the horse who brought him here, Swaps. Sherman was a bit player in the story of Swaps, who won that Derby. But when he left California on Monday, Sherman did so as the trainer of the horse acknowledged as the favorite for Saturday’s Kentucky Derby, California Chrome. And his friend, trainer Tom Proctor, wanted everyone – at least everyone on their flight Monday – to know about it. They took separate flights from different Southern California airports before connecting in Phoenix along with jockeys Mike Smith and Gary Stevens. Proctor, who has an outsized frame and personality, convinced the gate attendants to let Sherman on the plane first and convinced the flight attendants to announce who Sherman was and why he was on that flight to Louisville. “I just... ...

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California Chrome Arrives in Kentucky

By DRF.com LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Apr. 28, 2014) – By the end of the week, at the end of the long prep season toward the Kentucky Derby, handicappers and horsemen alike often simply look to the heavens for some sort of inspiration or intervention, but this year they needed to look earlier, for on Monday, the heavens opened, the rains came, and then, after a dramatic morning, this year’s chosen one dropped from the sky. California Chrome, the favorite for the 140th Derby on Saturday at Churchill Downs, arrived from California around midday after a tumultuous morning here that saw two of his rivals work, separated by a suspension in training necessitated by fierce lightning in the area. Fortunately, California Chrome arrived without incident, both Tapiture and Hoppertunity safely got through their final drills, and Derby Week, which started out underwater, finally got underway. Tapiture was scheduled to work around 6 a.m. Eastern on Monday, but because rain had started to fall, trainer Steve Asmussen waited a bit longer to go, desirous... ...

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California Chrome by OCRegister.com

By OCRegister.com LOS ALAMITOS, Calif. (Apr. 27, 2014) – To reach the star’s hideaway, the drive requires passing places that promise to be packed: a Costco, a gym, a Seventh-day Adventist church with a sign – “Everyone Welcome.” http://www.ocregister.com/articles/california-611493-derby-track.html?page=1   ...

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DANCINGTOTHESTARS — $100,000 Fran’s Valentine Stakes

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 26, 2014) – Dancingtothestars accelerated past the tiring frontrunners turning for home, then withstood a rider’s objection to win Saturday’s $100,000 Fran’s Valentine Stakes for Golden State Series eligible fillies and mares on the Gold Rush card at Santa Anita.   Dancingtothestars is a 6-year-old mare by Good Journey, out of the In Excess mare A Lil Excess and was bred by owner Ren-Mar Thoroughbreds.   “We’re very proud of her,” said Cathy Lambert, daughter-in-law of Marjorie Lambert of Burbank, who races as Ren-Mar Thoroughbreds. “This is really special because we lost her dam last year. She had been bred to Atticus and then got colic. To win the Megahertz (Stakes, three starts back) and now the Fran’s Valentine, this is unreal.”   Dancingtothestars is trained by Doug O’Neill and was ridden by Mario Gutierrez.   “Mario knows her well,” said O’Neill. “He was out of town the last time she ran (third in the Irish O’Brien). Joe Talamo gave her a great ride, but the Ren-Mar... ...

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Journey On Picks Wilshire

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 24, 2014) – Journey On is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $100,000 Grade III Wilshire Handicap for fillies and mares at Santa Anita.   Journey on is by Good Journey, out of the American Chance mare Miss Del Mar, was bred by Leatherman Racing, is owned by Neil Haymes & Robert Master and is trained by Doug O’Neill.   She has four wins in 10 starts, earnings of $154,910 and is coming off a sixth in the Mar. 29 American Beauty. She scratched out of Saturday’s Fran’s Valentine Stakes. ...

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Summer Hit in San Francisco Mile

ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 23, 2014) – Graded winner Summer Hit, runner-up in this race last year, is back for Saturday’s $100,000 Grade III San Francisco Mile at Golden Gate. Summer Hit is by Bertrando, out of the Tough Knight mare Mia F Eighteen, was bred by Kenneth and Janice Heidt, is owned by John Carver and Jerry Hollendorfer and trained by Hollendorfer. He has 10 wins in 18 starts, earnings of $452,219 and is coming off a Mar. 15 allowance win. He was second in this race last year. Pepper Crown is by Peppered Cat, out of the Crowning Storm mare Crown This Lady, was bred by owner and trainer Alex Paszkeicz. He has four wins in nine starts, earnings of $96,433 and is coming off a third in a Mar. 30 optional claimer. Pepnic is by Peppered Cat, out of the Tychonic mare Prochonic, was bred by Alex Paszkeicz, is owned by David Taylor Jr. and trained by Tim McCanna. He has five wins in 23 starts, earnings of... ...

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CHRB Meeting Friday

From CHRB ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 22, 2014) — The California Horse Racing Board will conduct its regular meeting this Friday, April 25, in the Bayview Lounge (Turf Club) at Golden Gate Fields beginning at 9:30 a.m. The public is encouraged to attend. An audio-only webcast of the meeting can be heard through the “webcasts” link on the CHRB website (www.chrb.ca.gov). The agenda and supporting package of materials for this meeting are available on the website through the following links: agenda, package. ...

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Solid Foundation for California Chrome

By Bloodhorse.com CYPRESS, Calif. (Apr. 22, 2014) — If trainer Art Sherman seems surprisingly calm for a Triple Crown newcomer who figures to be saddling this year’s Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) favorite in California Chrome, some of that confidence traces to the solid racing foundation of the Santa Anita Derby (gr. I) winner. While many trainers have reduced the number of starts for their top 2-year-olds, California Chrome enters this year’s Derby with seven races as a juvenile and a total of 10 starts. No Derby favorite in this century has boasted more 2-year-old starts than California Chrome. The most recent Derby favorite with more juvenile starts is filly Excellent Meeting (an entry with General Challenge in 1999), who raced eight times as a 2-year-old. Sherman believes the road to the Derby can be taxing on horses without solid foundations. “They all run a mile-and-an-eighth prior to running in the Derby,” Sherman said. “I just think that being seasoned and not having to do a whole lot... ...

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Los Alamitos Improvements Underway

By Bloodhorse.com CYPRESS, Calif. (Apr. 22, 2014) — Los Alamitos Race Course is embarking on a series of improvements designed to help the Cypress, Calif., racetrack play a more major role in the Southern California Thoroughbred picture. Plans for the construction of additional stalls and frontside improvements are under way, said Brad McKinzie, the general manager of the Los Alamitos Thoroughbred meetings. “We’re moving forward with a lot of the improvements right now,” said McKinzie. “We’re on the agenda of the City of Cypress’s meeting of May 12 to construct the new barns.” The barns, which Los Alamitos management hopes to have in place by mid-June, would add 200 stalls to the 500 already in use for year-round Thoroughbred training. McKinzie said that Los Alamitos would also have a temporary ship-in facility of about 60 stalls for use during the race meetings. Frontside improvement plans include expansion of the Vessels Club, addition of an upscale bar, a viewing terrace, and boxes, and enlarging the walking ring. Los Alamitos conducts year-round... ...

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Los Alamitos Seeks Fairplex Dates

By DRF.com POMONA, Calif. (Apr. 18, 2014) — Officials with Barretts Sales and Racing at the Los Angeles County Fair are in advanced discussions with colleagues at Los Alamitos Racecourse to relocate the 13-day Fairplex meeting to the Orange County track this September, according to a Fairplex Park official. If the racing dates are transferred, it is likely to mark the end of live racing at the Los Angeles County Fair, located at Fairplex Park in Pomona. Racing has been held at the Los Angeles County Fair since September 1933, shortly after the legalization of parimutuel racing in California. Discussions between officials of the two tracks and other industry representatives were held on Thursday and were expected to continue on Friday, according to Mike Chee, the director of communications for Fairplex Park. An agreement on the transfer of dates could be reached as early as Friday, he said. “Things are going hour to hour,” Chee said late Thursday afternoon. “We’re hopeful we can close an agreement by the end of... ...

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Hovdey on Cal-bred Derby Winners

By Jay Hovdey, DRF.com An expert in statistical theory and application would suggest that if something has not happened in 51 years, it is unlikely to happen in the 52nd. Such an expert also would recommend against playing cards with a guy named Ace or betting on the Vikings in the Super Bowl. Any Super Bowl. Those who are prepared to follow California Chrome over the cliff of passionate favoritism in the 140th Kentucky Derby two weeks from now would be wise to keep that number – 51 – in mind, because the last time a racehorse who was born and raised in the Golden State won the Derby was in 1962, when a Catholic was president, Cuba had missiles, and gasoline was 25 cents a gallon. [ROAD TO THE KENTUCKY DERBY: Prep races, point standings, replays] This is not to say it matters squat to the Thoroughbred in question where he was born. It wasn’t as if California Chrome staggered to his wobbly legs on the 18th of February,... ...

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Barretts May Catalog Online

From Barretts POMONA, Calif. (Apr. 15, 2014) — The catalog for the Barretts May Sale of Two-Year-Olds in Training and Horses of Racing Age is now on-line and will be mailed soon.  This auction of 129 horses will be held on Monday, May 12 in the Hinds Pavilion located on the grounds of Fairplex Park in Pomona, California beginning at 2:00 p.m.   The catalog can be viewed now at http://www.barretts.com/sales/Catalogs/catmay2014/catalog.asp   The May Sale catalog is also now available for your ipad.  Click here for details.   The official training preview is scheduled to be held on Friday, May 9 on the Fairplex Park racetrack adjacent to Barretts, beginning at 10:00 a.m.   The preview will be streamed live at http://www.barretts.com/sales/ViewSale/index.asp   Video clips for each preview can be viewed on-line by the afternoon following the preview at www.barretts.com.   Among the successful graduates of the May Sale in the past year are stakes winners Jeranimo (G1),  Stormy Lucy (G2), Dice Flavor (G2), Full Ransom (G3), Can the Man, City By The... ...

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She’s Ordained Enters Primonetta

BALTIMORE, Md. (Apr. 16, 2014) – She’s Ordained is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Primonetta 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 trained by Timothy Kreiser.   She has 14 wins in 32 starts, earnings of $353,325 and is coming off a third in a Mar. 29 starter’s allowance. ...

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Hovdey on Chiloquin

By Jay Hovdey, DRF.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 11, 2014) — Once the dust clears Saturday night on the last of the major Kentucky Derby trial heats – better known as the Arkansas Derby and the Blue Grass Stakes – the coast will be clear for a brief appreciation of an underserved category of Thoroughbred racehorse in Sunday’s $100,000 San Simeon Stakes at Santa Anita. Chiloquin and Zimmer don’t remember what it was like to be 3. Their chances at Triple Crown glory came and went quickly, without much concern. Chiloquin, a 6-year-old son of Tribal Rule, hails from the same generation as Animal Kingdom and Shackleford, while Zimmer, an 8-year-old by Empire Maker, missed his chance to get smacked around by Mine That Bird, Summer Bird, and Rachel Alexandra. After a while, both Zimmer and Chiloquin passed into the “old warrior” category, and there they have spent most of their time, surviving travel, physical setbacks, and a variety of racetracks to arrive in the same race Sunday with a chance... ...

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Lakerville Seeks Another Stakes

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 10, 2014) – Stakes winner Lakerville and fellow California-bred Chiloquin are entered in Sunday’s $100,000 Grade III San Simeon Stakes at Santa Anita.   Lakerville is by Unusual Heat, out of the Out of Place mare Foreverinthegame, was bred by Abrams & Team Green, is owned by Barry Abrams and M. Auerbach and is trained by Abrams. He has five wins in nine starts, earnings of $292,910 and is coming off a sixth in the Mar. 8 Frank E. Kilroe Mile.   Chiloquin is by Tribal Rule, out of the Desert Mirage mare Zzyxx Road, was bred by Sam & Carl Assadurian, is owned by Carl Assadurian and Scott Hansen and is trained by Hansen. He has six wins in 23 starts, earnings of $368,342 and is making his first start since a third in the Sept. 4 Pirate’s Bounty. ...

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Horse Sense Blog on California Chrome

From Horse Sense Blog Saturday’s performance by California Chrome in the Santa Anita Derby took our breath away, just as his San Felipe did a month ago. This time, he didn’t get the quick, almost quarter horse-like start that he got in March. Coming awkwardly away from the gate, he settled off the pace and loomed up on the outside as they rounded the far turn. Espinoza said, “Go”…and boy, did he go.  Powering away to an open-lengths lead, he shortened his strides near the end, ears pricked and eyes bright, as if to say, “Are you guys gonna catch me any time soon?” Every Derby Trail needs an electrifying contender in its ranks; this colt may be one of the most popular in recent years. Trainer Art Sherman said to the press after his win, “He’s my Swaps.” That means a lot, considering the 77 year-old horseman was up close and personal with the 1955 Kentucky Derby winner, as his exercise rider. And yes, California Chrome lovers have drawn... ...

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Big Macher in Potrero Grande

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 9, 2014) – California Cup Sprint champ Big Macher is joined by fellow California-breds Cyclometer  and Crimson Giant in Saturday’s $200,000 Grade II Potrero Grande Stakes at Santa Anita. Big Macher is by Beau Genius, out of the Kris S. mare Insight, was bred by Ballena Vista Farm, is owned by Tom Mansor and Tachycardia Stables and is trained by Richard Baltas. He has three wins in nine starts, earnings of $196,428 and is coming off a second in the Mar. 8 San Carlos Stakes. “The horse has a good style; he can stalk or can be on the lead, too. It doesn’t matter,” said Baltas. “I like where we drew (post position seven of eight). There is one speed horse outside us (Cyclometer), but we should come out of there and Tyler (Baze) will have a good look at the field, but if they give us the lead, we’ll take it.” Cyclometer is by Cyclotron, out of the Eastern Echo mare Moana Loa, was bred by... ...

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Irish O’Brien Rematch in Las Cienegas

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 9, 2014) – Tribal Spy and Ciao Bella Luna, 1-2 finishers in the Irish O’Brien, are entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Grade III Las Cienegas Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita. Tribal Spy is by Tribal Rule, out of the Victory Gallop mare Victory Spy, was bred by Gary Barber, is owned by Triple B Farms and trained by Adam Kitchingman. She has five wins in 14 starts, earnings of $238,610 and is coming off a win in the Mar. 15 Irish O’Brien Stakes. “I worked her a half-mile the other day in 49 (on turf) and she did it real nice,” jockey Joe Talamo said of Tribal Spy. “She went off in 26 (the first quarter mile) and came home in 23. It’s been a while since I rode her, but she’s real consistent. If she runs like she’s been running, she’ll be tough.” Ciao Bella Luna, a Kentucky-bred daughter of Tribal Rule, out of the Conquistador Cielo mare Shadow of the Moon, was bred... ...

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Cookies for California Chrome

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 6, 2014) — A day after his latest spectacular victory, California Chrome bounced around in his stall April 6, holding court with media and munching cookies. “He ate a whole bag,” said co-owner Carolyn Coburn as her colt motioned for more oat treats. California Chrome playfully nipped Steve Coburn, Carolyn’s husband. “I’m taking an extra day off,” said Coburn, who works as a press operator in a small Northern Nevada factory. “I called my boss. He said everybody from the shop watched the race and they’d been celebrating, too.” California Chrome is taking his neophyte owners/breeders on an adventure of a lifetime. He’s the first horse bred by co-owners Steve and Carolyn Coburn of Topaz Lake, NV., and Perry and Denise Martin of Yuba City, CA. The couples met through shared ownership in Love The Chase; they each owned 5% as part of a Blinkers On syndicate. Together, they bought the mare outright for $8,000 as a broodmare prospect; California Chrome is her first foal.... ...

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California Chrome Fine the Day After

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 6, 2014) — Racing has itself a Rock Star. He’s California Chrome, who on Saturday started on the path of legends, winning the Santa Anita Derby in breathtaking fashion, overpowering seven rivals, including well-regarded stakes winners Hoppertunity and Candy Boy. He was all but eased up at the end of a mile and an eighth, floating home by 5 1/4 lengths under a nonchalant Victor Espinoza. Call it Superman compared to Clark Kent. It was bedlam in the winner’s circle, replete with TV cameras, photographers, social media groupies, traditional media, autograph seekers and assorted hangers-on, but both horse and trainer survived the well-intentioned ordeal. The national, yea, international, spotlight grows ever larger now as trainer Art Sherman prepares California Chrome for racing’s biggest stage, the 140th Kentucky Derby on May 3. Although off a bit slowly and crowded early, California Chrome battled longshot Dublin Up and second choice Candy Boy for the lead until the quarter pole, then took off like a Jet,... ...

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California Chrome Romps in SA Derby

By DRF.com ARCADIA, Calif. (April 5, 2014) — It has been 59 years since Art Sherman first went to the Kentucky Derby as an 18-year-old exercise rider for 1955 Derby winner Swaps. After that, he was a jockey, then a trainer, but never has he returned to the Derby. But now he has a good reason to go back, and no one is riding higher. The Sherman-trained California Chrome, already considered the ante-post favorite for the May 3 Derby, emphatically solidified that position Saturday with a powerhouse performance in the Grade 1, $1 million Santa Anita Derby, which he won by 5 1/4 lengths after a bit of early difficulty. So impressive was the win, his fourth straight, that Sherman, 77, joked, “Maybe I should take my jock’s license out.” Victor Espinoza had the mount Saturday, but the way California Chrome ($3.40) ran, Shaquille O’Neal could have ridden him. Facing two other highly regarded stakes-winning 3-year-olds, Hoppertunity and Candy Boy, California Chrome blew them off the racetrack. “It’s kind of... ...

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Derby Winner Has Harris Farms Connection

By AP ARCADIA, Calif. — Art Sherman knows what it takes to get a horse to the Kentucky Derby and win. He had a close-up view as an 18-year-old workout rider when Swaps won the 1955 Run for the Roses. Nearly 60 years later, Sherman is taking his own colt to Louisville as the early Derby favorite.California Chrome romped to a 5 ¼-length victory in the $1 million Santa Anita Derby on Saturday, a race Swaps won by a half-length before he went on to Kentucky Derby glory.Like Swaps, California Chrome is a California-bred chestnut — born and raised at Harris Farms in Coalinga.”He’s my Swaps,” said Sherman, now a 77-year-old trainer assisted by his son Alan. “I’m very humbled to have a horse like this.” Ridden by Victor Espinoza, California Chrome ran 1 1-8 miles in 1:47.52. He paid $3.40, $2.40 and $2.10 as the 3-5 favorite of 35,241 fans. California Chrome has won his last four races by a combined 24 1/4 lengths for Sherman, a former jockey... ...

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Machowsky Eyes California-bred Gold

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 4, 2014) — Mike Machowsky goes for a Cal-bred double tomorrow. The 48-year-old Cincinnati native sends out Rovenna in the $200,000 Evening Jewel for 3-year-old fillies bred in California or sired by a California stallion, and Gangnam Guy in the $200,000 Echo Eddie, the Evening Jewel’s counterpart for male 3-year-olds. Gangnam Guy, owned by Dick Barton of Ontario, California, returns to the main track after two seconds on Santa Anita’s downhill turf course at about 6 ½ furlongs. Rovenna, owned by Donald Dizney of Ocala, Florida, is coming off a daylight win in an optional allowance race. “He’s training super; I don’t think dirt’s an issue,” Machowsky said of Gangnam Guy, a son of turf specialist Roi Charmant. “When he ran going two turns on dirt here (Golden State Juvenile at one mile last Nov. 1) it was too far for him, and at Fairplex (fourth in the Barretts Juvenile at 6 ½ furlongs last Sept. 15), he blew both turns. But he’s... ...

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Hovdey on Bertrando

By Jay Hovdey, DRF.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 3, 2014) — With major stakes winners Candy Boy, Hoppertunity, and California Chrome in the mix, there is a good chance that the results of the $1 million Santa Anita Derby will resonate well past the end of its nine furlongs late Saturday afternoon. You like to see a race have legs, especially a historically rich race like the Derby, despite its role as a feeder event for that other Derby at Churchill Downs. Of course, there’s no getting around it. But nothing says the top finishers of the Santa Anita Derby can’t have lives of their own after the first Saturday in May. [Santa Anita Derby Day: Get PPs, watch Saturday’s card live] Neither A.P. Indy nor Bertrando, 1-2 in the 1992 Santa Anita Derby, had anything to do with the Kentucky Derby that year. In the end, it did not matter. A.P. Indy, a $2.9 million yearling, recovered from foot trouble to win the Belmont Stakes, the Breeders’ Cup Classic, and... ...

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Hovdey on Art Sherman

By Jay Hovdey, DRF.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 2, 2014) — If California Chrome performs the way Art Sherman thinks he can Saturday in the $1 million Santa Anita Derby, look out. Here comes Art Sherman. If he wins Saturday, California Chrome would be heading to the May 3 Kentucky Derby as one of the favorites. This would not be unusual. Any Santa Anita Derby winner, barring the rankest of longshots, heads to Louisville as a horse to watch – even if his trainer is a 77-year-old Derby rookie. “I know the horse is doing terrific, and I’m kind of anxious to see if he can pass this test,” Sherman said. “If he can beat this field, I think he’s got a legitimate shot at the Derby.” It was the Tuesday before the race, and Sherman was sitting in the kitchen of his home in the north San Diego County enclave of Rancho Bernardo. Sherman and his wife, Faye – they were married in 1962 – bought the place a year... ...

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Life Is a Joy in Echo Eddie

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 2, 2014) – Life Is a Joy is the leading earner entered in Saturday’s $200,000 Echo Eddie Stakes for Golden State Series eligbile 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 Zillah Reddam and trained by Doug O’Neill. He is a maiden making his third start with earnings of $11,450. Whine for Wine is by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Jump Start mare Mrs. Began, was bred by owners Tommy Town Thoroughbreds and is trained by Jerry Hollendorfer. He is coming off a maiden win Mar. 15 in his second start with earnings of $44,800. Well Measured is by Benchmark, out of the Bertrando mare Miss Thirtyfour D, was bred by Michael and Cory Wellman, is owned by Gary Barber, Wachtel Stable and Cory and Michael Wellman and is trained by Peter Miller. He has one win in two starts, earnings of $45,200 and is coming off a second... ...

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Sprouts High Weight in Evening Jewel

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 2, 2014) – Multiple stakes winner Sprouts is the 122-pound high weight in a field of nine set for Saturday’s $200,000 Evening Jewel Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-old fillies at Santa Anita. Norastone is by Kafwain, out of the Deputy Commander mare Throne Seeker, was bred by Larry Mabee, is owned by Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners and trained by Michael McCarthy. She has two wins in three starts, earnings of $45,850 and is coming off a 13th in the Jan. 25 California Cup Oaks. Sprague River is by Tribal Rule, out of the Unbridled’s Song mare Tina’s Love, was bred by Carl Assadurian, is owned by Rockingham Ranch and trained by Peter Miller. She has two wins in four starts, earnings of $65,416 and is coming off a fourth in the Feb. 15 Sweet Life Stakes. Sprouts is by Square Eddie, out of the Yankee Victor mare Ann Summers Gold, was bred by J. Paul Reddam, is owned by Reddam Racing and trained by Edward Freeman. She... ...

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All Systems Go for California Chrome

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (April 2, 2014)—California-bred sensation California Chrome heads a field of eight sophomores set to go 1 1/8 miles in Saturday’s Grade I, $1 million Santa Anita Derby, as the Art Sherman trainee seeks his fourth consecutive win and 100 additional Kentucky Derby qualifying points.  The second, third and fourth place finishers will each receive 40, 20 and 10 qualifying points respectively. A chestnut colt by Lucky Pulpit, California Chrome has become the talk of the racing world since going gate to wire in the Grade II, 1 1/16 miles San Felipe Stakes on March 8, winning by 7 ¼ lengths under Victor Espinoza. A winner of his last three races, all stakes, by a combined 19 lengths, California Chrome, with Espinoza up, worked a half mile at his Los Alamitos base on Saturday in 46.40 and galloped out six furlongs in 1:13.40. “He looked sharp and he galloped out strong,” said Sherman on Saturday.  “All systems are go.  His work was super, I was... ...

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Smoove It in the Oaks

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 2, 2014) — Smoove It is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $400,000 Grade I Santa Anita Oaks for 3-year-old fillies. Smoove It is by Square Eddie, out of the Distorted Humor mare Smoove, was bred by J. Paul Reddam, is owned by Reddam Racing and trained by Doug O’Neill. She has one win in eight starts, earnings of $79,760 and is coming off a third in the Feb. 15 Sweet Life Stakes. ...

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Kukaluka Enters Providencia

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 2, 2014) — Kukaluka is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $150,000 Grade III Providencia Stakes for 3-year-old fillies at Santa Anita. Kukaluka is by Comic Strip, out of the Roar mare Ms. Booty, was bred by Mr. and Mrs. William T. Gray, is owned by Wachtel Stable and Gary Barber and is trained by Peter Miller. She has one win in six starts, earnings of $36,464 and is coming off a fifth in a Mar. 13 allowance. ...

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Warren’s Venedalucy in Czarina

SUNLAND PARK, N.M. (Apr. 3, 2014) — Warren’s Venedalucy is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $50,000 Czarina Stakes for fillies and mares at Sunland Park. Warren’s Venedalucy is by Doc Gus, out of the Carson City mare State the Obvious, was bred by Benjamin Warren, is owned by Ace Racing Stable and trained by Justin Evans. She has six wins in 25 starts, earnings of $150,384 and is coming off a fourth in the Mar. 23 Harry Henson ...

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O’Neill Knows How Sherman Feels

By Brisnet.com It’s been nearly 60 years since Art Sherman had a  horseman’s interest in the Kentucky Derby. He was 18 in 1955 when he accompanied  the great Swaps and his trainer Mesh Tenney to Churchill Downs to prepare the  colt for his victory in the Run for the Roses 59 years ago. If the fates allow, Sherman, now 77, will make it back to  Louisville, Kentucky, for the 140th classic, this year with California Chrome, like Swaps a  California-bred chestnut. Sherman is advised to enjoy the ride, from no less an  authority than Doug O’Neill, who fulfilled every trainer’s dream two years ago  by winning the Derby with 15-1 longshot I’ll Have Another. After winning the  Preakness, the upstart three-year-old came within hailing distance of going for the  Triple Crown but was sidelined with an 11th-hour injury a day before the Belmont  Stakes. But first things first, and for streaking California  Chrome, that would be Saturday’s Grade 1, $1 million Santa Anita Derby, a race  O’Neill won the last... ...

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Santa Anita Traffic Closure on Saturday

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (March 30, 2014)—Those wishing to spend the morning at Santa Anita’s Clockers’ Corner on Saturday, April 5, are advised that Baldwin Ave. will be closed to vehicular traffic between the 210 Freeway and Huntington Drive from 7:45 a.m. until 9:30 a.m. in order to accommodate Santa Anita’s annual Santa Anita Derby Day 5k Run & Walk. Accordingly, Santa Anita’s Gate 8, which adjoins the Westfield Shopping Mall on Baldwin Ave., and Gate 7, at the track’s northeast end, will also be closed to vehicles during the same time frame. Those wishing to visit Clockers’ Corner will be able to enter the track on Santa Anita’s east end, through Gate 5, or on the track’s southern perimeter, through Gate 3.  Gates 3 & 5 will be open for easy access to Clockers’ Corner beginning at 5 a.m. and will remain open throughout the day.  Santa Anita’s main track will be closed for training at 7:30 a.m. Gate 3 is located at the intersection of Holly... ...

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California Chrome Drills for SA Derby

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 29, 2014) — California Chrome and Candy Boy, the two favorites for next Saturday’s Grade I, $1 million Santa Anita Derby, had their final major drills Saturday morning for their highly anticipated meeting, California Chrome working four furlongs at his Los Alamitos headquarters in 46.40 under regular rider Victor Espinoza, and Candy Boy going six furlongs at Santa Anita in 1:11.80 under regular rider Gary Stevens. “He looked sharp,” trainer Art Sherman said of California Chrome. “He galloped out strong, five furlongs in a minute, and three-quarters in 1:13 2/5. All systems are go. His work was super; I was very impressed . . . I’ll get him over there, school him in the gate, go through the paddock and then we’ll be ready to go. Since it’s supposed to rain Tuesday, we might go over Wednesday. “He’s doing great over here. All our horses are running good from here, and they go over (to Santa Anita) and win so it must be... ...

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Gold Rush at Santa Anita Apr. 26

ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 27, 2014) – Here’s the lineup for the five stakes races of the $850,000 California Gold Rush XV, for California-breds and sired, to be held for the first time at Santa Anita on Saturday, Apr. 26, 2014: $250,000 Snow Chief Stakes, 3-year-olds, at 1 1/8 miles on turf (purse paid down to eighth place). $250,000 Melair Stakes, 3-year-old fillies, at 1 1/16 miles (purse paid down to eighth place). $125,000 Tiznow Stakes, 4-year-olds & up, at one mile. $125,000 Spring Fever Stakes, 4-year-olds & up, fillies and mares, at 6 furlongs. $100,000 Fran’s Valentine Stakes, 4-year-olds & up fillies and mares, at one mile on turf. Nominations close Saturday, Apr. 12. For more information, contact Rick Hammerle at the Santa Anita Racing Office, 626-574-6352. ...

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Spud Spivens Enters Santana

ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 27, 2014) — Spud Spivens is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $75,000 Santana Mile Stakes at Santa Anita. Spud Spivens is by Tizbud, out of the Cutlass Reality mare Oceans Reality, was bred by Harris Farms, is owned by Vincent and Audrey Marchionno and Henry Moreno and is trained by Moreno. He has four wins in 26 starts, earnings of $269,544 and is coming off a seventh in a Feb. 7 allowance. He was sixth in this race two years ago. ...

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Unusual Hottie in American Beauty

ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 26, 2014) – California-breds Unusual Hottie and Journey On are entered in Saturday’s $75,000 American Beauty Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita.   Unusual Hottie is by Unusual Heat, out of the Ski Champ mare Branco Como Neve, was bred by owner Ali Nilforushan and is trained by Jeff Mullins. She has seven wins in 19 starts, earnings of $397,528 and is coming off an eighth in the Feb. 17 Buena Vista Stakes.   Journey On is by Good Journey, out of the American Chance mare Miss Del Mar, was bred by Leatherman Racing, is owned by Neil Haymes and Robert Master and is trained by Doug O’Neill. She has four wins in nine starts, earnings of $154,660 and is coming off a third in a Feb. 16 optional claimer. ...

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Halo Dolly in Dream of Summer Stakes

ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 20, 2014) – California champion Halo Dolly leads a compact but competitive field of five entered in Sunday’s $100,000 Dream of Summer Stakes for Golden State Series eligible fillies and mares at Santa Anita.   Halo Dolly is by Popular, out of the Comic Strip mare Spanish Halo, was bred by Rod and Lorraine Rodriguez, is owned by Hoefflin, Hoefflin, Hollendorfer, O’Farrell, Robin, et al, and is trained by Jerry Hollendorfer. She has 17 wins in 36 starts, earnings of $922,316 and is coming off a third in the Jan. 12 Paseana Stakes. She was the 2012 champion Cal-bred older female.   Warren’s Rosebud is by Affirmed, out of the Cozzene mare Elusive Rose, was bred by owner Benjamin Warren and is trained by Jorge Gutierrez. She has two wins in 10 starts, earnings of $96,080 and is coming off a Feb. 20 allowance win.   Could Be Trouble is by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Devon Lane mare To B. Devon, was bred by John... ...

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Swiss Lake Yodeler in Kentucky

FLORENCE, Ky. (Mar. 20, 2014) – Swiss Lake Yodeler is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $125,000 Grade III Fathead Bourbonette Stakes for 3-year-old fillies at Turfway Park. Swiss Lake Yodeler is by Swiss Yodeler, out of the Meadowlake mare Domasco Lake, was bred by owners Mr. and Mrs. Larry Williams and is trained by Jerry Hollendorfer She has three wins in six starts, earnings of $247,850 and is coming off a third in the Mar. 1 Santa Ysabel Stakes. ...

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Tamarando Favored in Spiral Stakes

By Bloodhorse.com FLORENCE, Ky. (Mar. 19, 2014) — Susan Moulton’s Solitary Ranger, the first horse she ever purchased, will attempt to become only the second runner in history to take the local prep at Turfway Park and win the $550,000 Horseshoe Casino Cincinnati Spiral Stakes (gr. III) March 22 at the Florence oval. Concerto, who won the 1997 John Battaglia Memorial Stakes and what was then the grade II Jim Beam Stakes (now the Spiral again), is the only 3-year-old to have aced both Turfway tests on the road to the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I). The Spiral, to be run as the 11th on a 12-race card with an approximate post time of 6:28 p.m. EDT, is worth 50 qualifying points to the winner—enough to secure a spot in the Derby starting gate on the first Saturday in May. Solitary Ranger, a son of first crop sire U S Ranger   trained by Wayne Catalano, won the March 1 Battaglia on Turfway’s Polytrack by 4 3/4 wire-to-wire lengths... ...

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Bill Thomas Draws Cal-bred Pair

SUNLAND PARK, N.M. (Mar. 20, 2014) – California-breds Warren’s Knockout and L.A. Weekend are entered in Sunday’s $75,000 Bill Thomas Memorial Stakes at Sunland Park. Warren’s Knockout is by Stormed, out of the Doneraile Court mare Now My Precious, was bred by Benjamin Warren, is owned by Len Schermer and trained by Justin Evans. He has eight wins in 31 starts, earnings of $344,057 and is coming of a second in a Feb. 18 optional claimer. L.A. Weekend is by Tribal Rule, out of the Avenue of Flags mare Storybook Fair, was bred by Dennis Johnston, is owned by Simon Hudy and trained by Robertino Diodoro. He has 10 wins in 21 starts, earnings of $319,040 and is coming off a second in the Feb. 15 Phoenix Gold Cup. ...

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Cal-bred Pair in Harry Henson

SUNLAND PARK, N.M. (Mar. 20, 2014) – California-breds Wine Thief and Warren’s Vendalucy are entered in Sunday’s $75,000 Harry Henson Stakes for fillies and mares at Sunland Park. Wine Thief is by Benchmark, out of the French Parliament mare Malbay Slew, was bred by Robert and Eileen Osaki and West 12 Ranch, is owned by SEJ Stables and trained by Justin Evans. She has seven wins in 26 starts, earnings of $166,613 and is coming off a second in a Mar. 1 optional claimer. Warren’s Vendalucy is by Doc Gus, out of the Carson City mare State the Obvious, was bred by Benjamin Warren, is owned by Ace Racing Stable and trained by Justin Evans, She has six wins in 24 starts, earnings of $147,384 and is coming off an eighth in the Feb. 15 Sun City Handicap. ...

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Classic Horse Show Apr. 12-13

From CARMA LOS ANGELES, Calif. (Mar. 18, 2014) — Entries are now being taken online for the initial Thoroughbred Classic Horse Show event to be held at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center, presented by Siegel-CARMA Foundation, Apr. 12-13. Entries can be submitted at horseshowtime.com. The other two other dates for the Thoroughbred Classic Horse Show Series  – June 14-15 at Galway Downs and Dec. 13-14 at Los Angeles Equestrian Center. ...

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Tamarando Aims for Spiral Stakes

By Thoroughbred Daily News ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 18, 2013) — The Jerry Hollendorfer-trained California-bred Tamarando tops the list of probable for Turfway Park’s Grade III Horseshoe Casino Spiral Stakes for 3-year-olds on Mar. 22. The Grade III El Camino Real Derby winner will attempt to attain some of the 85 Kentucky Derby points up for grabs. “He’s been very sound and he’s been doing everything we’ve asked him to do,” said Hollendorfer. “He fits in this race. It looks like a good spot.” Tamarando breezed seven panels at Golden Gate in 1:28 with Russell Baze up on Sunday. ...

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California Chrome’s Next Start Uncertain

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 16, 2014) — Recent San Felipe Stakes (gr. II) winner California Chrome could be entered for the $1 million Santa Anita Derby (gr. I) next month, but firm plans for the colt’s next race were still undetermined as of the morning of March 16. The Santa Anita Derby, run at 1 1/8 miles, is set for April 5 at Santa Anita Park. “We’re playing it by ear with him,” trainer Art Sherman said. California Chrome, who most recently captured the San Felipe Stakes (gr. II) by 7 1/4 lengths March 8, is on a three-race winning streak, all in stakes. “The horse is doing well,” Sherman added. “He galloped this morning (at his headquarters at Los Alamitos Race Course). Let’s say he’s on the Derby trail and there’s a chance he could run in the Santa Anita Derby.” The California-bred son of Lucky Pulpit  , who has won his three most recent starts by a combined margin of 19 lengths, earned 50 qualifying points to the Kentucky... ...

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Ciao Bella Luna Runs by the Rules

By DRF.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 13, 2014) — Ciao Bella Luna is the rare Kentucky-bred eligible to race in stakes for California-breds. The 4-year-old filly is by the California-based stallion Tribal Rule. A few years ago, conditions for California-breds were broadened to include California-bred and California-sired horses. The new restriction allowed Ciao Bella Luna to start in the Sunshine Millions Filly and Mare Turf Sprint here Jan. 25, a race she won. On Saturday, Ciao Bella Luna is back with California-breds in the $100,000 Irish O’Brien Stakes for fillies and mares on the hillside turf course. Ciao Bella Luna is the only filly or mare in the field of seven not bred in the state. In the Sunshine Millions race, Ciao Bella Luna was always near the front and won by a half-length over Marks Mine. Trainer Peter Miller said Ciao Bella Luna is capable of repeating that performance. [Santa Margarita: Get PPs, watch Saturday’s card live] “She’s got a very good chance,” Miller said. “She’s doing well. She runs... ...

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Marks Mine in Camilla Urso

ALBANY, Calif. (Mar. 13, 2014) –Stakes winner Marks Mine and fellow California-bred Fast and Foxy are entered in Saturday’s $50,000 Camilla Urso Stakes for fillies and mares at Golden Gate.   Marks Mine is by Benchmark, out of the Capote mare Ermine Fever, was bred by owners Mr. and Mrs. Larry Williams and is trained by Steven Specht. She has seven wins in 15 starts, earnings of $324,454 and is coming off a second in the Jan. 25 Sunshine Millions Filly & Mare Turf Sprint.   Fast and Foxy is by Thisnearlywasmine, out of the Falstaff mare Zorra Roja, was bred by Daehling Ranch and is owned by Daehling Ranch and Holly Evans and is trained by Evans, She has four wins in nine starts, earnings of $66,540 and is coming off a second in a Feb. 17 allowance. ...

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