CYPRESS, Calif. (July 10, 2014) — California-breds Global Hart, Abets Abet and Slew’s Charm are entered in Sunday’s $100,000 Cinderella Stakes for 2-year-old fillies at Los Alamitos. Global Hart is by Globalize, out of the In Excess mare Sarah’s Hart, was bred by John Watson, is owned by Via Encanto Farms and trained by Jorge Periban. She has one win in three starts, earnings of $24,700 and is coming off a June 21 maiden claiming win. Abets Abet is by Southern Image, out of the Swiss Yodeler mare Neeko, was bred by Revocable Trust of Mikel Harrington and Patricia Harrington and is owned by trainer Mike Harrington. She is a maiden making her fourth start with earnings of $18,068. Slew’s Charm is by Roi Charmant, out of the Unusual Heat mare The Toast of Troy, was bred by B&B Zietz Stable, is owned by Rozamond Barklay and trained by Mike Harrington. He is a maiden making his third start with earnings of $15,568. ...

CYPRESS, Calif. (July 10, 2014) — Stakes winner Wake Up Nick and fellow California-bred Peradventure are entered in Sunday’s $100,000 Willard L. Proctor Memorial Stakes for 2-year-olds at Los Alamitos. Wake Up Nick is by Cindago, out of the Lion Hearted mare Storm Hearted, was bred by Lee and Susan Searing, is owned by Reddam Racing and trained by Doug O’Neill. He is unbeaten in two starts, with earnings of $108,600 and is coming off a win in the June 22 Santa Anita Juvenile Stakes. Peradventure is by Papa Clem, out of the Boundary mare Holiday Sale, was bred by jack and Barbara Hatch Revocable Living Trust, is owned by CTR Stables and trained by Scott Rollins. He won his lone start June 27 with earnings of $33,600. ...

By DMTC DEL MAR, Calif. (July 10, 2014) — For the third straight season, Del Mar will present a “race ready” racehorse sale in its paddock following the day’s races on the first Sunday of its upcoming season, July 20. The auction, which provides an opportunity for any and all to become in-action owners at the ongoing race meet, could offer as many as 35 horses to bidders, including juveniles, 3-year-olds and older horses of both sexes. Barretts Sales, which conducted the two earlier sessions, once more will be at the controls for the 2014 sale. The main idea behind the sale is to bring new owners into the game. Additionally, the first two sales helped supplement entries at Del Mar and at other California tracks with out-of-state horses. The first year of the sale in 2012, 25 sale horses subsequently made 36 starts at the Del Mar meet, then more than 100 total in California before the year was out. Last year’s smaller sampling of 17 sale horses made... ...

CYPRESS, Calif. (July 9, 2014) — Graded winner Doinghardtimeagain and fellow California-bred stakes winner Sagebrush Queen are entered in Saturday’s $200,000 Great Lady M Stakes for fillies and mares at Los Alamitos. 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 trained by Jorge Gutierrez. She has four wins in nine starts, earnings of $189,770 and is coming off a win in the June 15 Desert Stormer. Doinghardtimeagain is by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Conquistador Cielo mare Silver Hawk Lady, was bred by owner Tommy Town Thoroughbreds and is trained by Jerry Hollendorfer. She has five wins in 12 starts, earnings of $599,766 and is coming off a fifth in the June 15 Desert Stormer. ...

By DRF.com DEL MAR, Calif. (July 19, 2014) — Hall of Fame jockey Gary Stevens said Friday he will need to undergo a full knee replacement next week after doctors informed him that the damage to his right knee is more severe than first believed, including a completely torn anterior cruciate ligament. Stevens, 51, made his comments on HRTV, the horse-racing network where on July 10 he first announced that he would stop riding immediately and undergo knee surgery. “It’s been a great run, a great career, and if I don’t make it back, I can live with that,” Stevens said while being interviewed by Laffit Pincay III and Christina Blacker. “My ACL was completely shot, which I didn’t even know. That was a big shock,” Stevens said. He said “there were some tears” when his doctor called with the news Friday. “He said he’s never seen anybody do what [I’ve] been doing with no ACL,” Stevens said. “So, I apologize to anyone who happens to have lost money on... ...

By Bloodhorse.com PASADENA, Calif. (July 9, 2014) — B.J. Wright, the colorful owner of major winners Jeranimo and Ultimate Eagle, died July 8, his trainer, Mike Pender, reported. Wright, 76, had been ill for several months. An enthusiastic Southern California owner who had hugs for everyone whenever his horses would win, Wright had great success teaming up with Pender. Jeranimo, owned in partnership with Robert LaPenta, has earned $1,525,364. The 8-year-old son of Congaree  —Jera, by Jeblar, won such races as the 2013 Eddie Read Stakes (gr. IT) and 2012 Shoemaker Mile Stakes (gr. IT). Pender also trained Ultimate Eagle for Wright, and the horse now stands at Special T Thoroughbreds near Temecula, Calif. A 6-year-old son of Mizzen Mast  —Letithappencaptain, by Captain Bodgit, Ultimate Eagle earned $547,800, and his stakes victories included the 2011 Hollywood Derby (gr. IT). Wright first met Pender when coaching football at an elementary school in Glendale, Calif. Pender was the team’s quarterback during their undefeated season. Years later, Wright reconnected with Pender at the racetrack and... ...

WILMINGTON, Del. (July 9, 2014) — She’s Ordained is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Sweet and Sassy 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 trained by Timothy Kreiser.   She has 14 wins in 35 starts, earnings of $375,525 and is coming off a second in the June 12 Dashing Beauty Stakes. ...

SHAKOPEE, Minn. (July 9, 2014) — Enlightened is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s 100,000 Lady Canterbury Stakes for fillies and mares at Canterbury Park. 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 is trained by Valerie Lund. She has eight wins in 30 starts, earnings of $99,298 and is coming off an eighth in the June 7 Minnesota HBPA Distaff. ...

PLEASANTON, Calif. (July 3, 2014) – Five California-breds are included in the field for Sunday’s $50,000 Everett Nevin Stakes for 2-year-olds at Oak Tree at Pleasanton. Lucky Fame is by Lucky J. H., out of the Western Fame mare Sierra Fame, was bred by George and Clare Schmitt, is owned by Richard Meister and George and Clare Schmitt and is trained by Jeff Bonde. He won his lone start June 27 with earnings of $9,050. Global Magician is by Globalize, out of the Trans Island mare Shebang, was bred by Ellen Jackson, is owned by Wachtel Stable and Gary Barber and is trained by Peter Miller. He won his lone start May 17 with earnings of $20,280. Local Reason is by Olmodavor, out of the Bertrando mare Local Flavor, was bred by H & E Ranch, is owned by Curt and Lila Lanning and trained by Ed Moger Jr. He won his lone start June 21 with earnings of $16,250. Mahorney is by Roi Charmant, out of the Candi’s Gold... ...

By DRF.com ARCADIA, Calif. (July 3, 2014) — The state that produced the star 3-year-old California Chrome may have a breeding industry shaking off the effects of a grueling decline in recent years. Recent interviews with farm managers, as well as Doug Burge, the executive director of the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association, indicate that several stallions had stronger books of mares in 2014 than in past years and that some farms have had an uptick in overall activity. Any improvement in the foal crop will be greatly appreciated by almost everyone in the sport. California’s foal crop was 3,823 in 2002, according to The Jockey Club’s annual “Fact Book.” The 2012 foal crop, the most recent year for which statistics are available, numbered 1,685. By further comparison, the 2010 foal crop was 1,998. Burge expects the 2014 crop to exceed 1,700, judging from conversations he has had with stallion owners and farms in recent weeks. “What we’re seeing, and I’ve been talking to a number of farms, is that there... ...

PLEASANTON, Calif. (July 2, 2014) – Seven California-breds, including Northern California Yearling Sale graduate The One We stole, are among the entries for Saturday’s $50,000 Juan Gonzalez Memorial Stakes for 2-year-old fillies at Oak Tree at Pleasanton. Do the Danse is by Kafwain, out of the Joyeux Danseur mare Big City Danse, was bred by owner Tommy Town Thoroughbreds and is trained by Jerry Hollendorfer. She won her lone start June 20 with earnings of $16,250. Northern California Yearling Sale graduate The One We Stole is by Tannersmyman, out of the Top Account mare Get the Money, was bred by Jim Eaton, is owned by Troy Johnson and trained by Salvador Naranjo. The $2,300 Northern California Sale purchase won her lone start Apr. 25 with earnings of $17,550. Inspired Illusion is by Papa Clem, out of the Helmsman mare Inspiriation Within, was bred by owners Curt and Lila Lanning and is trained by Ed Moger Jr. She won her lone start June 5 with earnings of $9,000. Runninsmygame is by... ...

CYPRESS, Calif. (July 2, 2014) – Eddie’s First is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $500,000 Grade II Los Alamitos Derby.   Eddie’s First is by Square Eddie, out of the Boston Harbor mare Teresa Ann, was bred by J. Paul Reddam, is owned by Reddam Racing and is trained by Doug O’Neill.   He has one win in six starts, earnings of $47,550 and is coming off a sixth in the June 8 Silky Sullivan. ...

CYPRESS, Calif. (July 2, 2014) – Storm Fighter is the high weight and 5-2 morning-line favorite in Thursday’s $100,000 Bertrando Stakes for Golden State Series eligibles at Los Alamitos. Spirit Rules is by Tribal Rule, out of the Danzatore mare Heavenly Lady, was bred by John and Allegra Ernst, is owned by Barbara Accardy, Paul Aguirre, Craig Siedler, Jim Xitco and Mark Xitco and is trained by Aguirre. He has four wins in 11 starts, earnings of $187,078 and is making his first start since a Mar. 20 optional claiming win. 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 and Paul and Mathilde Viskovich and is trained by Leonard Powell. He has six wins in 26 starts, earnings of $292,438 and is coming off a win in a June 8 starter’s allowance. Rousing Sermon is by Lucky Pulpit, out of the Awesome Again mare Rousing Again, was bred by owners Mr. and... ...

CYPRESS, Calif. (July 1, 2014) – Graded-stakes placed Huntsville and fellow California-bred Magic Mark are entered in Friday’s $75,000 American Flag Stakes at Los Alamitos.   Huntsville is by Unusual Heat, out of the Jade Hunter mare Lethal Hunter, was bred by David Abrams and Madeline Auerbach, is owned by Auerbach and Barry Abrams and is trained by Barry Abrams. He has three wins in 39 starts, earnings of $297,021 and is making his first start since a seventh in a Feb. 14 optional claimer.   Magic Mark is by Benchmark, out of the Deputy Governor mare Jewel Magic, was bred by owners Dorine and John Lanza and is trained by Ron Ellis. He has four wins in six starts, earnings of $161,860 and is coming off a two consecutive optional claiming wins. ...

By Bloodhorse.com CYPRESS, Calif. (June 30, 2014) — The eight-day Summer Thoroughbred Festival at Los Alamitos Race Course starts Thursday, July 3, marking the first meet for Thoroughbreds at the Cypress, Calif. track since the final Orange County Fair in 1991. Racing will be conducted on a Thursday-Sunday basis with seven stakes worth $1.15 million scheduled before the season ends Sunday, July 13. Anchoring the stakes schedule is the $500,000 Los Alamitos Derby (gr. II), formerly known as the Swaps Stakes when run at Hollywood Park (1974-2013). The race is the richest event on the calendar and the purse is $350,000 higher than it was when the Swaps was run for the final time last July 4 at the now-shuttered Inglewood, Calif. track. The Derby is the beginning of the $1 million Bolton Challenge bonus. The winner of the Derby would collect the seven-figure prize with subsequent victories in the $1 million TVG Pacific Classic (gr. I) Aug. 24 at Del Mar and the $5 million Breeders’ Cup Classic (gr. I)... ...

PLEASANTON, Calif. (June 30, 2014) – Stakes winners Ain’t No Other and Ourwestcoastghost and fellow California-bred Coach Bob are among the entries for Friday’s $75,000 Oak Tree Sprint at the Oak Tree at Pleasanton meet. Coach Bob is by Bertrando, out of the Yankee Gentleman mare Gentleman’s Hope, was bred by Pam & Marty Wygod, is owned by Tom Gerstel, Reina Gonzalez, Keith and Jean Hembree, et al, and is trained by Reina Gonzalez. He has four wins in 32 starts, earnings of $211,002 and is making his first start since a fourth in the Feb. 22 Sensational Star. Ourwestcoastghost is by Muqtarib, out of the In Excess mare Express Xcess, was bred by owners Ron Lang, Lillian Lang and D. Wayne Baker and is trained by Baker. He has six wins in 16 starts, earnings of $205,922 and is coming off a second in a May 26 allowance. Ain’t No Other is by Old Topper, out of the Shadeed mare Miami Margie, was bred by owner Tommy Town Thoroughbreds... ...

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 26, 2014) – Starspangled Heat is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $200,000 Grade II San Juan Capistrano Stakes at Santa Anita.   Starspangled Heat is by Unusual Heat, out of the Runaway Groom mare Bel Air Belle, was bred by Madeline Auerbach, David Abrams & Vincenzo Loverso, is owned by Barry Abrams, Auerbach and Loverso and is trained by Barry Abrams.   He has five wins in 32 starts, earnings of $385,987 and is coming off a sixth in the June 14 Albany Stakes. ...

AUBURN, Wash. (June 26, 2014) – Papa’s Flashy Girl is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $50,000 Irish Day Handicap  for 3-year-old fillies at Emerald Downs.   Papa’s Flashy Girl is by Papa Clem, out of the Deputy Commander mare With a Flash, was bred by Legacy Ranch, is owned by Patrick McGhee and Saratoga West and is trained by Jeffrey Metz.   She has two wins in 13 starts, earnings of $42,179 and is coming off a fourth in a May 26 claimer. ...

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 25, 2014) – Stakes winner Rovenna and fellow California-bred My Monet are entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Grade III Senorita Stakes for 3-year-old fillies at Santa Anita.   Rovenna is by Vronsky, out of the Northern Afleet mare Amadamprez, was bred by owner Donald Dizney and is trained by Mike Machowsky. She has four wins in nine starts, earnings of $397,760 and is coming off a three consecutive wins, two in stakes.   My Monet is by Decarchy, out of the Lord Avie mare Madam, was bred by Ridgeley Farm, is owned by KM Racing Enterprise and trained by George Papaprodromou. She has two wins in four starts, earnings of $49,650 and is coming off a seventh in a June 5 optional claimer. ...

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 25, 2014) – Graded winner Cyclometer is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $300,000 Grade I Triple Bend Stakes 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 six wins in 21 starts, earnings of $417,004 and is coming off a win in the Los Angeles Stakes. He was sixth in this race last year. ...

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 25, 2014) – Multiple stakes winner Dancingtothestars and fellow California-bred Kathleen Rose are entered in Saturday’s $200,000 Grade II Royal Heroine Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita.   Dancingtothestars is by Good Journey, out of the In Excess mare A Lil Excess, was bred by owner Ren-Mar Thoroughbreds and trained by Doug O’Neill. She has seven wins in 23 starts, earnings of $473,122 and is coming off a win in the Apr. 26 Fran’s Valentine.   Kathleen Rose is by Good Journey, out of the Decarchy mare Cantina’s Rose, was bred by owner B&B Zietz Stables and trained by Mike Machowsky. She has five wins in nine starts, earnings of $231,540 and is coming off a three consecutive optional claiming wins. ...

PLEASANTON, Calif. (June 25, 2014) – Top Kisser is the high weight and Unusual Way is the leading earner among entries for Saturday’s $100,000 Oak Tree Distaff Stakes for Golden State Series eligibles at the Oak Tree at Pleasanton meet. Brilliant Melody is by Bertrando, out of the Tale of the Cat mare Unchanged Melody, was bred by Pam & Marty Wygod, is owned by Steve Moger and trained by Ed Moger Jr. She has six wins in 18 starts, earnings of $204,270 and is coming off a fourth in a May 18 optional claimer. Top Kisser is by Old Topper, out of the Cherokee Run mare Cherokee Kiss, was bred by owners Tommy Town Thoroughbreds and is trained by Jerry Hollendorfer. She has five wins in 10 starts, earnings of $265,800 and is coming off a sixth in the May 25 Mizdirection. 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... ...

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 19, 2014) – A quartet of California-breds is entered in Sunday’s $125,000 Landaluce Stakes for 2-year-old fillies at Santa Anita. My Fiona is by Ghostzapper, out of the Two Punch mare A Vision in Gray, was bred by Terry Lovingier, is owned by Tom Beckerle, Lovingier and Amanda Navarro and is trained by Walther Solis. She won her lone start May 18 with earnings of $33,600. Abets Abet is by Southern Image, out of the Swiss Yodeler mare Neeko, was bred by Revocable Trust of Dr. Mikel Harrington & Patricia Harrington and is owned by trainer Mike Harrington. She is a maiden making his third start with earnings of $15,568. Saturday Yodeler is by Swiss Yodeler, out of the Cape Canaveral mare Calamity Jane, was bred by owners Todd Marshall & Andrew Molasky and is trained by Mike Harrington. She is a maiden making her third start with earnings of $10,080. Robo Girl is by Bushwacker, out of the Ide mare Robotica, was bred by Terry Lovingier,... ...

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 19, 2014) – Three first-out winning California-breds are entered in Sunday’s $125,000 Santa Anita Juvenile Stakes for 2-year-olds at Santa Anita. Global Magician is by Globalize, out of the Trans Island mare Shebang, was bred by Ellen Jackson, is owned by Wachtel Stable and Gary Barber and trained by Peter Miller. He won his lone start May 17 with earnings of $20,280. Krisit’s Copilot is by Lucky Pulpit, out of the Out of Place mare Aleyna’s At Brown, was bred by owner Meadowbrook Farms and is trained by Art Sherman. He won his lone start May 16 with earnings of $33,600. Wake Up Nick is by Cindago, out of the Lion Hearted mare Storm Hearted, was bred by Lee and Susan Searing, is owned by Reddam Racing and trained by Doug O’Neill. He won his lone start May 1 with earnings of $33,600. ...

PLEASANTON, Calif. (June 19, 2014) – Multiple stakes winner Sprouts and fellow California-breds French Tart and Vanuatu are entered in Sunday’s $50,000 Betamerica.com Oaks for 3-year-old fillies at the Oak Tree at Pleasanton meet. French Tart is by Decarchy, out of the Rio’s Lark mare Run Kaitlyn Run, was bred by owner Patricia Ford and trained by William Delia. She has one win in 13 starts, earnings of $81,509 and is coming off a third in a June 1 optional claimer. 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 Doug O’Neill. She has three wins in eight starts, earnings of $183,740 and is coming off a fourth in the Apr. 5 Evening Jewel. Vanuatu is by Spensive, out of the Tossofthecoin mare Rosarita Beach, was bred by Dagan and Jenifer Holmes, is owned by John and Janene Maryanski and trained by Blaine Wright. She has two wins in three starts,... ...

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 18, 2014) – Stakes winner Aotearoa and fellow California-bred Frensham are entered in Saturday’s $75,000 Singletary Stakes at Santa Anita.   Frensham is by Square Eddie, out of the Formal Gold mare Farnham, was bred by J. Paul Reddan, is owned by Zillah Reddam and trained by Doug O’Neill. He has one win in six starts, earnings of $56,800 and is coming off a sixth in the June 7 Affirmed Stakes.   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 nine starts, earnings of $147,250 and is coming off a fifth in the June 8 Silky Sullivan.   ...

PLEASANTON, Calif. (June 18, 2014) – Multiple graded stakes winner Summer Hit and fellow California-bred Cahill Chrome are entered in Saturday’s inaugural $100,000 Oak Tree Handicap at the Oak Tree at Pleasanton meet. Summer Hit is by Bertrando, out of the Tough Knight mare Mia F Eighteen, was bred by Kenneth & Janice Heidt, is owned by John Carver and Jerry Hollendorfer and trained by Hollendorfer. He has 11 wins in 20 starts, earnings of $532,219 and is coming off a win in the May 26 All American Stakes. Cahill Chrome is by Cahill Road, out of the Bold Badgett mare Takes Two to Mango, was bred by SLU and is owned by trainer Jose Bautista. He has four wins in 30 starts, earnings of $107,869 and is coming off a June 1 claiming win. ...

FARMINGTON, N.M. (June 17, 2014) — Happy Toes is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $75,000 San Juan County Commissioners Handicap at Sunray Park.   Happy Toes is by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Green Dancer mare Up On Her Toes, was bred by Tommy Town Thoroughbreds, is owned by Jackie and Sylvia Herron and trained by Justin Evans.   He has 11 wins in 41 starts, earnings of $174,441 and is coming off a second in a May 27 allowance. ...

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... ...

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... ...

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). ...

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.... ...

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. ...

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. ...

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. ...

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. ...

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... ...

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. ...

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... ...

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... ...

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... ...

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.... ...

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... ...

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.... ...

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... ...

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. ...

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.   ...

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. ...

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.... ...

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... ...

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. ...

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. ...

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. ...

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... ...

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). ...

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. ...

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... ...

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... ...

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... ...

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... ...

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... ...

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... ...

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... ...

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... ...

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... ...

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... ...

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... ...

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. ...

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... ...

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... ...

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. ...

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. ...

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... ...

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... ...