Review Category : Uncategorized

TOC NorCal Annual Meeting Oct. 21

From TOC ALBANY, Calif. (Sept. 23, 2023) — Thoroughbred Owners of California (TOC) invites all members to the Northern California Annual Meeting, to be held Saturday, Oct. 21, in the Bay View Lounge at Golden Gate Fields. The general business meeting will allow directors an opportunity to bring the membership up to date on important issues and will include a question-and-answer session. An award presentation will also be made to the winner of the Northern CA Rookie of the Year. Following the meeting, a complimentary buffet luncheon will be served.  Registration required with current CHRB License. To register, click: Northern California Annual Meeting Tickets, Berkeley | Eventbrite ...

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F-T California Fall Sale Tuesday at Fairplex

By DRF.com POMONA, Calif. (Sept. 22, 2023) — More than likely, there will be a significant number of yearlings sold for $100,000 or more at Tuesday’s Fasig-Tipton California fall yearlings and horses of racing age sale at Fairplex in Pomona, Calif. The final number in that category may determine whether buyers are paying higher prices overall than in past years for racing prospects or unveiling an occasional bargain. In 2021, 17 yearlings were listed as sold for $100,000 or more at the Fasig-Tipton California sale compared to 14 in 2022. The 2021 sale averaged $39,173 compared to $30,522 last year. Those average figures are considerably higher than the 2020 figure of $22,504 when the sale was held at Los Alamitos in Orange County because of coronavirus crowd restrictions. Tuesday’s sale, which begins at 11 a.m., has a catalog of 360 hips before withdrawals, including a sizeable segment of horses of racing age. The Fasig-Tipton sale is the leading annual yearling auction in the state. In August, the California Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association’s... ...

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Chismosa, Smoothlikebuttah in Dark Mirage

CYPRESS, Calif. (Sept. 20, 2023) – Multiple stakes winner Chismosa and fellow California-bred Smoothlikebuttah are entered in Saturday’s $125,000 Dark Mirage Stakes for fillies and mares at Los Alamitos. Chismosa is by Clubhouse Ride, out of the Cat Dreams mare You Can Dream, was bred by owner Jaime Renella and trained by Rafael DeLeon. She has three wins in eight starts, earnings of $289,750 and is coming off a 10th in the Aug. 25 Charlestown Oaks Smoothlikebuttah is by Mr. Big, out of the Five Star Day mare Eight Daughters, was bred by NP Thoroughbreds, is owned by Robert Bach & William Tessar and is trained by Steve Knapp. She has three wins in 43 starts, earnings of $429,366 and is coming off a fourth in the Sept. 4 Tranquility Lake. ...

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Ceiling Crusher Steps Up to Cotillion Stakes

BENSALEM, Pa. (Sept. 18, 2023) – Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Ceiling Crusher, a graded winner and the lone California-bred entered in the field, takes on multiple Grade I winner Pretty Mischievous in Saturday’s $1 million Cotillion Stakes for 3-year-old fillies at Parx Racing. Ceiling Crusher is by Mr. Big, out of the Indian Charlie mare Palisadesprincess, was bred by Harris Farms, is owned by Wonderland Racing Stables, Todd Cady, Tim Kasparoff and Ty Leatherman and is trained by Doug O’Neill. The $22,000 purchase at the Northern California Yearling Sale has five wins in six starts, earnings of $374,400 and is coming off win in the Grade III Torrey Pines on Sept. 2. ...

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Fowler Blue Tries Greenwood Cup Stakes

BENSALEM, Pa. (Sept. 18, 2023) – Fowler Blue is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $200,000 Grade III Greenwood Cup Stakes at Parx Racing. Fowler Blue is by Curlin to Mischief, out of the Unusual Heat mare Roses for Joni, was bred by William Branch & Arnold Hill, is owned by Branch and trained by Doug O’Neill. He has three wins in 16 starts, earnings of $171,249 and is coming off a fifth in the July 22 Monmouth Cup Stakes. ...

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Cal-bred Stakes, Tweaked Pick Six this Fall

ARCADIA, Calif. (Sept. 18, 2023)—With a traditional $1 dollar Pick Six and an all-new wager, the “Santa Anita Turf Pick 3” leading the way, Santa Anita has announced its 2023 Autumn Meet Wagering Menu, which will be in effect on opening day, Friday, Sept. 29.                The traditional Pick Six requires players to pick winners in the final six races on each day’s card and will pay out 70 percent of the net pool whenever there are six winning tickets.  If no player hits six of six, 70 percent of the net pool is carried over to the next racing day.  Thirty percent of the pool is then paid out to consolation tickets with five winners.                    Offered for the first time, the Santa Anita Turf Pick 3 is a $3 minimum wager that will be comprised of the final three turf races on each day’s program, conditions permitting.                The 19-day Autumn Meet will no doubt be highlighted by the 40th running of the two-day Breeders’ Cup World Championships... ...

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Minister of Soul Enters Budweiser Special

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. Sept. 24, 2023) – Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Minister of Soul is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $70,000 Budweiser Special Stakes at Albuquerque. Minister of Soul is a multiple stakes winner by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Bernstein mare Sensitive Soul, was bred by Dahlberg Farms and is owned by trainer Esteban Martinez. The $16,000 purchase at the Northern California Yearling Sale has 17 wins in 58 starts, earnings of $534,610 and is coming off a fourth in an Aug. 6 allowance. ...

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F-T California Sale Supplement Online

Fasig-Tipton Press Release POMONA, Calif. (Sept. 14, 2023) — Fasig-Tipton has cataloged 59 horses of racing age entries for its upcoming California Fall Yearlings and Horses of Racing Age Sale.  These entries, which are cataloged as hips 301-359, will be sold immediately following the conclusion of the yearling portion of the catalog. They include several stakes performers, unraced 2-year-olds with recent public works, 3-year-olds, and older horses with current form. “There’s a lot of quality among the horses of racing age entries, and the timing works well for those looking to add to their stables as Santa Anita’s Fall meet begins,” said Fasig-Tipton California representative Mike Machowsky. “Last year’s horses of racing age supplement produced two stakes winners, including Ceiling Crusher , now a multiple stakes winner, including the Torrey Pines Stakes (G3) a couple of weeks ago.” These entries may now be viewed online, including Daily Racing Form past performances, Ragozin sheets, and race replays for all horses that have started. Print catalogs for the horses of racing age supplement will be available on... ...

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CHRB Meeting Advisory

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Sept. 14, 2023) — The California Horse Racing Board will conduct an in-person meeting on Thursday, September 21, 2023, beginning at 9:30 a.m. at Cal Expo. This meeting will be open to the public. Those providing unsolicited public comments on individual agenda items will be limited to two minutes. Comments must relate specifically to the agenda items. Note that for agenda item #12, Public Comment, no further comments will be permitted after 30 minutes. For those who do not attend, the webcast audio link on the CHRB website will provide a way to listen to the meeting. The agenda and package of materials for the meeting are available on the CHRB website. ...

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Kings River Knight Aims for Another Stakes

From Los Alamitos Publicity CYPRESS, Calif. (Sept. -3, 2023) – Kings River Knight will have six opponents when he seeks his second stakes win of the year at Los Alamitos in the $75,000-guaranteed E. B. Johnston Saturday. Restricted to 3-year-olds & up bred or sired in California, the one-mile Johnston is the last of nine races on the second day of the September Thoroughbred meet. Post time Saturday is 1 p.m. and approximate post time for the Johnston is 5 p.m. Bred by Old English Rancho and trained by John Sadler for Integrity Thoroughbred Racing LLC, Ellwood Johnston Trust and Kenneth Tevelde, Kings River Knight led throughout as the 8-5 favorite to win the Bertrando June 24 in his Los Alamitos debut. Juan Hernandez, the top rider on the Southern California circuit, had the call that afternoon and he has a return engagement in the Johnston. If Kings River Knight wins Saturday, it will be the 14th stakes win at Los Alamitos for Hernandez, moving him into sole possession of... ...

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NorCal Grad Momma Mocca in Turf Distaff

ALBANY, Calif. (Sept. 12, 2023) – Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Momma Mocca is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $50,000 Golden Gate Fields Turf Distaff for fillies and mares. Momma Mocca is by Tamarando, out of the Ole mare Chi Chi Nette, was bred by David McGlothlin, is owned by Gutierrez, Matthew, Hanna, Mark A., Hanna, Maria and Martin, Ralph and trained by Manuel Badilla. The $30,000 purchase from the Harris Farms consignment of the Northern California Yearling Sale has four wins in 23 starts, earnings of $154,556 and is coming off an Aug. 13 optional claiming win. ...

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Self Isolation Wheels Back for Shine Again

BALTIMORE, Md. (Sept. 10, 2023) – California-bred Self Isolation wheels back in six days for Saturday’s $75,000 Shine Again Stakes for fillies and mares at Pimlico. Self Isolation is by Square Eddie, out of the Spring At Last mare Loan Savant, was bred by Reddam Racing and is owned by trainer David Jacobson. She has nine wins in 25 starts, earnings of $433,370 and is coming off a fourth in Sunday’s Sensible Lady. ...

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Unbeaten Pushiness in Grade I Debutante

DEL MAR, Calif. (Sept. 6, 2023) – California Thoroughbred Breeders Association Stakes winner Pushiness is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $300,000 Grade I FanDuel Racing Del Mar Debutante for 2-year-old fillies. Pushiness is by Kantharos, out of the Empire Maker mare Imperial Pippin, was bred by Richard Barton Enterprises, is owned by Repole Stable and trained by Michael McCarthy. She has won both of her starts with earnings of $107,850 and is coming off a win in the Aug. 6 California Thoroughbred Breeders Association Stakes. ...

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Maybe Closing Remarks in John C. Mabee

DEL MAR, Calif. (Sept. 6, 2023) – The last time California-bred Closing Remarks  ran, winning the Aug. 12 Yellow Ribbon Handicap (G2T) at Del Mar, it may have added to the cachet of her sire, Vronsky , enough for a yearling by the stallion to top the Northern California yearling sale at $100,000 a few days later. A similar situation could set up if she annexes the Sept. 9 John C. Mabee Stakes (G2T), two and a half weeks before three more Vronsky yearlings are set to sell at the Fasig-Tipton California sale. Of course, Closing Remarks has to win first, and though she has captured several attractive stakes, she has never put back-to-back victories together at any time during her career. But this could be her moment. The 1 1/8-mile Mabee only drew six runners, and most have not been competing in graded company in their most recent starts. Closing Remarks, a 5-year-old homebred for John Harris’ Harris Farms trained by Carla Gaines and out of the Unusual Heat mare Orange Cove, has five... ...

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Kings River Knight Nominated to Johnston

From Los Alamitos Publicity CYPRESS, Calif. (Sept. 9, 2023) –Kings River Knight, who is 1-for-1 at Los Alamitos, tops the nominations to the $75,000-guaranteed E.B. Johnston Stakes. The one-mile race for 3-year-olds & up bred or sired in California will be run Saturday, September 16, the second day of the September meet at Los Alamitos. The six-day season will continue through Sunday, September 24. Owned by Integrity Thoroughbred Racing and trained by John Sadler, Kings River Knight, a 5-year-old gelded son of Acclamation, went gate-to-wire as the favorite in the Bertrando Stakes in his Los Alamitos debut during the Los Angeles County Fair meet earlier this year. Kings River Knight, who was bred by Old English Rancho, has won five of 11 and earned $324,760. Other nominees to the Johnston include five-time winner Hail Freedom, Shortman, who has won three of six starts at Los Alamitos, Geezer, who broke his maiden during the 2022 September meet, Finneus, Logon to Win and Johnny Podres. The nominees for the Los Alamitos Special,... ...

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E.B. Johnston Stakes at Los Al on Sept. 16

From Los Alamitos Publicity CYPRESS, Calif. – Four stakes which combined could be worth as much as $400,000 highlight the 2023 September meet at Los Alamitos. The six-day season will begin Friday, Sept. 15 and continue through Sunday, Sept. 24. Racing will be conducted Friday-Sunday (Sept. 15-17 and Sept. 22-24) both weeks. Post time will be 1 p.m. The first of the stakes races is the $75,000 E.B. Johnston for 3-year-olds & up bred or sired in California. The one-mile Johnston will be run Saturday, Sept. 16. The following day older horses – 3-year-olds & up – will get together in the $100,000 Los Alamitos Special at 1 1/16 miles. Completing the schedule are the $125,000 Dark Mirage for fillies and mares – 3-year-olds & up – at 1 1/16 miles and the $100,000 Capote for 2-year-olds at 6 ½ furlongs. The Dark Mirage will be contested Saturday, Sept. 23 while the Capote will be run closing day, Sunday, Sept. 24. The Dark Mirage, Los Alamitos Special and Capote were... ...

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Lord Prancealot Seeks to Add to His Empire

By DRF.com DEL MAR, Calif. (Sept. 3, 2023) – The quick colt Lord Prancealot has won his first two starts with a bold front-running style that will be tested at six furlongs in Friday’s $125,000 I’m Smokin Stakes at Del Mar. The running style worked for Lord Prancealot in a maiden race at five furlongs on July 29, and in the Graduation Stakes for California-breds at 5 1/2 furlongs on Aug. 11. A slightly longer distance in the I’m Smokin Stakes for statebreds may be a challenge for Lord Prancealot. :: DRF’s 2023 Del Mar headquarters: Previews, past performances, picks, recaps, news, and more. “He’s improved each week,” trainer Jeff Bonde said. “We’re hoping the experience and seasoning will carry him an extra half-furlong. “His works have been sharp and he’s keeping his weight. I like to see that.” Bonde describes Lord Prancealot as “kinda of a Quarter Horse-made guy, built for speed.” Lord Prancealot is by Sir Prancealot, out of the Country Reel mare Disko Dasko, was bred by Jeff... ...

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Yo Yo Candy Enters Grade I Hopeful

SARATOGA, N.Y. (Sept. 3, 2023) — Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Yo Yo Candy, upset winner of the Grade III Sanford Stakes in July, returns in Monday’s $300,000 Grade I Hopeful Stakes for 2-year-olds at Saratoga. Yo Yo Candy is the first California-bred stakes winner by Danzing Candy, out of the Two Punch mare Yolando B. Too, was bred by Checkmate Thoroughbreds, is owned by Happy Tenth Stable and trained by Daniel Velasquez. Yo Yo Candy was a $6,000 purchase from the Checkmate Thoroughbred consignment at the Northern California Yearling Sale and was resold for $35,000 at the OBS March Sale of 2-year-olds. The colt has two wins in three starts and earnings of $141,250. ...

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Self Isolation Enters Pimlico’s Sensible Lady

BALTIMORE, Md. (Sept. 4, 2023) – Self Isolation is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $100,000 Sensible Lady Turf Dash Stakes at Pimlico. Self Isolation is by Square Eddie, out of the Spring At Last mare Loan Savant, was bred by Reddam Racing and is owned by trainer David Jacobson. She has nine wins in 24 starts, earnings of $427,370 and is coming off an Aug. 6 allowance win. ...

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NorCal Sale Grad Enters Generous Portion

DEL MAR, Calif. (Sept. 1, 2023) – Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Fly a Fantasy is one of three coming out of the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association Stakes that are entered in Monday’s $125,000 Generous Portion Stakes for Golden State Series-eligible 2-year-old fillies at Del Mar. Crazy Hot is by Goldencents, out of the Rockport Harbor mare Harbor Mist, was bred by Thomas Bachman, is owned by Edward Brown & Cory Thabit and is trained by Jeff Bonde. She has one win in three starts, earnings of $63,600 and is coming off a third in the Aug. 6 CTBA Stakes. Bleveys Tiger is by Smiling Tiger, out of the Coil mare Recoiling, was bred by owners Martin Bach & Daniel Weiner and is trained by Manuel Badilla. She has one win in two starts, earnings of $31,200 and is coming off a June 10 maiden win. Unified A. P. is by Unified, out of the Mineshaft mare Dream of Mine, was bred by Norman Tavares, is owned by Haru Racing... ...

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Fun to Dream Regroups in Tranquility Lake

DEL MAR, Calif. (Sept. 1, 2023) – Grade I stakes winner Fun to Dream and fellow California-bred Smoothlikebuttah are entered in Monday’s $100,000 Tranquility Lake Stakes for fillies and mares at Del Mar. Fun to Dream is by Arrogate, out of the Maria’s Mon mare Lutess, was bred by Connie Pageler & trainer Bob Baffert and is owned by Natalie Baffert and Pageler. She has six wins in nine starts, earnings of $654,590 and is coming off a fifth in the Aug. 5 Clement L. Hirsch Stakes. She was the California-bred Horse of the Year in 2022. Smoothlikebuttah is by Mr. Big out of the Five Star Day mare Eight Daughters, was bred by NP Thoroughbreds, is owned by Robert Bach and William Tessar and is trained by Steve Knapp. She has three wins in 42 starts, earnings of $421,566 and is coming off a third in an Aug. 5 optional claimer. ...

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Cal-bred Quartet Takes Sam Spear Shot

ALBANY, Calif. (Sept. 1, 2023) – Stakes winners Jimmy Blue Jeans and Royal ‘n Rando and fellow California-breds Cousin Richie and Duidic are entered in Monday’s $50,000 Sam Spear Memorial Stakes at Golden Gate. Cousin Richie is by Richard’s Kid, out of the Tapizar mare Crown on Tap, was bred by owner Larry Odbert and is trained by Sergio Ledezma. He has three wins in nine starts, earnings of $89,600 and is coming off a second in the Aug. 12 Robert Dupret Derby. Jimmy Blue Jeans is by James Street, out of the Marino Marini mare Blue Blizzard, was bred by Perry Bruno & John Gezon, is owned by Bruno, Gezon and Robert Jones and is trained by Andy Mathis. He has six wins in 20 starts, earnings of $305,900 and is coming off a fifth in the Aug. 5 California Dreamin’. He was second in this race last year. Druidic is by Boisterous, out of the Rocky Bar mare Shared Image, was bred by owner Robert Traynor and is... ...

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Cal-bred Pair Enters Gold Rush Futurity

AURORA, Co. (Sept. 4, 2023) – California-breds Lite Ranchin Kid and Big Moonie are entered in Saturday’s $50,000 Gold Rush Futurity for 2-year-olds at Arapahoe Park. Lite Ranchin Kid is by Lemon Drop Kid out of the Unbridled’s Song mare Lorelei’s Song, was bred by owner Regan Wright and is trained by Rafael Barraza. He won his lone start Aug. 19 with earnings of $5,820. Big Moonie is by Cat Burglar, out of the Square Eddie mare Moonie, was bred by Richard Barton Enterprises, is owned by Roberto Baeza and is trained by Candelario Villamar. He is a maiden making his fourth start with earnings of $2,355 and is coming off a fourth in a July 16 maiden race. ...

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No People Enters Delta Colleen

VANCOUVER, B.C. (Sept. 7, 2023) – No People is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $50,000 Delta Colleen Handicap for fillies and mares at Hastings Racecourse. No People is by Stay Thirsty, out of the Hennessy mare Montant, was bred by Dick Colvin & William Gould and is owned by Bulldog Bros. Racing and trainer Paul LeMasurier. She has three wins in 17 starts, earnings of $36,481 and is coming off a win in an Aug. 11 claimer. ...

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Clouseau is on the Case in Shared Belief

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 31, 2023) – Clouseau is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $150,000 Shared Belief Stakes for 3-year-olds at Del Mar. Clouseau is by Distorted Humor, out of the Bernardini mare English Garden, was bred by PT Syndicate #1, is owned by ISK Racing Stable Inc., Hames, Doug, Lawless, Rebekah, Lawless, Tom D., Lewkowitz, Frank, Lewkowitz, Karen and McClintock, Jay C. and is trained by Ian Kruljac. He has three wins in eight starts, earnings of $194,360 and is coming off a third in the Aug. 4 Real Good Deal Stakes. ...

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None Above the Law in Del Mar Handicap

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 30, 2023) – Graded stakes winner None Above the Law is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $300,000 Grade II Del Mar Handicap presented by The Japan Racing Association. None Above the Law is by Karakontie, out of the Northern Afleet mare Legally Blanca, was bred by owner J. Kirk & Judy Robison and is trained by Peter Miller. He has six wins in 25 starts, earnings of $540,560 and is coming off a third in the Aug. 5 California Dreamin’. He was sixth in this race last year. ...

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Ceiling Crusher in Grade III Torrey Pines

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 30, 2023) – Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Ceiling Crusher is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $150,000 Grade III Torrey Pines Stakes for 3-year-old fillies at Del Mar. Ceiling Crusher is by Mr. Big, out of the Indian Charlie mare Palisadesprincess, was bred by Harris Farms, is owned by Wonderland Racing Stables, Todd Cady, Tim Kasparoff and Ty Leatherman and is trained by Doug O’Neill. The $22,000 purchase from the Northern California Yearling Sale has four wins in five starts, earnings of $284,400 and is coming off a third in the June 27 Fleet Treat Stakes. ...

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Cal-bred Trio Lines Up in Green Flash

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 30, 2023) – Stakes winners Fast Buck and Bus Buzz and CTBA January Sale graduate Kid Corleone are entered in Saturday’s $150,000 Grade III Green Flash Handicap at Del Mar. Fast Buck is by Gallant Son, out of the Falstaff mare Zorra Roja, was bred by Daehling Ranch and is owned by Zephyr Racing and trainer Cesar DeAlba. He has five wins in nine starts, earnings of $275,474 and is coming off a win in the May 27 Daytona. Kid Corleone is by Shackleford, out of the Indian Charlie mare Corleone, was bred by The Quarter Company and is owned by Roadrunner Racing and Barbara Evenson. The $10,500 purchase at the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association January Sale has three wins in seven starts, earnings of $163,400 and is coming off a fourth in the July 29 Bing Crosby. Bus Buzz is by Stay Thirsty, out of the Bring the Heat mare Lost Bus, was bred by Terry Lovingier, is owned by Thomas Halasz, Lovingier and Amanda... ...

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Slow Down Andy Enters Pacific Classic

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 29, 2023) – Multiple graded-stakes winner Slow Down Andy is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $1 million Grade I FanDuel Pacific Classic at Del Mar. Slow Down Andy is by Nyquist, out of the Square Eddie mare Edwina E., was bred by owner Reddam Racing and is trained by Doug O’Neill. He has four wins in 12 starts, earnings of $976,600 and is coming off a second in the July 29 San Diego Handicap. ...

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One in Vermillion vs. Saratoga Heavyweights

SARATOGA, N.Y. (Aug. 23, 2023) – Multiple stakes winner One in Vermillion is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $500,000 Grade I H. Allen Jerkins Memorial Stakes for 3-year-olds at Saratoga. One in Vermillion is by Army Mule, out of the Any Given Saturday mare Given Star, was bred by Richard Barton Enterprises, is owned by Jonathan Kalman and trained by Esteban Martinez. He has five wins in 11 starts, earnings of $378,840 and is coming off a third in the Aug. 6 West Virginia Derby. ...

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Brickyard Ride Shoots for Millionaire Status

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 23, 2023) – Multiple graded stakes winner Brickyard Ride and fellow California-bred Moose Mitchell are entered in Saturday’s $250,000 Grade II Pat O’Brien Stakes at Del Mar. Brickyard Ride is by Clubhouse Ride, out of the Southern Image mare Brickyard Helen, was bred by owner Alfred Pais and is trained by Craig Lewis. He has 13 wins in 27 starts, earnings of $864,977 and is coming off a third in the July 29 San Diego Handicap. He was ninth in this race in 2021. Moose Mitchell is by Danzing Candy, out of the City Zip mare Sunrise Avenue, was bred by Kathleen Kennedy, is owned by R L Stables and trained by George Papaprodromou. He has seven wins in 24 starts, earnings of $413,940 and is coming off three consecutive wins. ...

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Self Isolation Opts for Timonium Distaff

TIMONIUM, Md. (Aug, 23, 2023) – Self Isolation, who scratched from Friday’s $150,000 Smart N Fancy Stakes at Saratoga, is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $75,000 Timonium Distaff for fillies and mares at the Maryland State Fair meet. Self Isolation is by Square Eddie, out of the Spring At Last mare Loan Savant, was bred by Reddam Racing and is owned by trainer David Jacobson. She has nine wins in 24 starts, earnings of $427,370 and is coming off an Aug. 6 allowance win. ...

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Chismosa Ships for Charles Town Oaks

CHARLES TOWN, W. Va. (Aug. 22, 2023) – Multiple stakes winner and graded-stakes placed Chismosa is the lone California-bred entered in Friday night’s $750,000 Grade III Charles Town Oaks for 3-year-old fillies. Chismosa is by Clubhouse Ride, out of the Cat Dreams mare You Can Dream, was bred by owner Jaime Renella and is trained by Rafael DeLeon. She has three wins in seven starts, earnings of $282,250 and is coming off a second in the July 27 Fleet Treat Stakes. ...

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TIZAMAGICIAN: The Magic Of Tiznow

  TIZMAGICIAN: Consistent, Durable, And Gritty  2024 Fee: $3,000  Standing at Milky Way Farm  34174 De Portola Rd Temecula, CA 92592 Inquiries to Linda Madsen (909) 241-6600  milkywaycattle@aol.com ...

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CARMAthon Returns Saturday at Del Mar

From CARMA DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 22, 2023) — CARMA’s annual fundraiser, CARMAthon, is back on Saturday, August 26th! Catch it live on FanDuel TV and TVG, straight from Del Mar. The goal? To raise $150,000 to support retired racehorses and essential aftercare. Hear heartwarming stories of Thoroughbreds thriving post-racing as the Fanduel TV and TVG team spotlight the importance of aftercare throughout the day. Join #teamCARMA this CARMAthon and help us prove that aftercare is not an afterthought! Learn More and Donate: carma4horses.org CARMA is a 501c3 non-profit organization founded in 2007 to raise money for retired racehorses. Tax ID #80-0146395 ...

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NorCal Graduate Enters Albuquerque Distaff

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (Aug. 27, 2023) – Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Brave Cinderella and fellow California-bred It’s Saul Right are entered in Sunday’s $70,000 Pitre GMC Albuquerque Distaff. Brave Cinderella is by Brave Cat, out of the Liberty Gold mare Cinderella Liberty, was bred by George & Clare Schmitt, is owned by Amanda Sweeten and Blanca Villegas and is trained by Andres Gonzalez. The $1,400 purchase at the Northern California Yearling Sale has four wins in 23 starts, earnings of $110,141 and is coming off a fifth in a July 16 optional claimer. She was third in this race in 2021. It’s Saul Right is by Smokem, out of the Mineshaft mare Paula’s Pistol, was bred by Terry Lovingier and is owned by trainer Sal Gonzalez. She has one win in 15 starts, earnings of $77,820 and is coming off a second in an Aug. 5 allowance. ...

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Chancery Way Joins Redrawn Solana Beach

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 17, 2023) – Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Chancery Way and fellow multiple stakes winners Rose Maddox and Eddie’s New Dream are entered in Friday’s rescheduled $125,000 Solana Beach Stakes for Golden State Series-eligible fillies and mares at Del Mar. Rose Maddox is by Grazen, out of the Unusual Heat mare Heat the Rocks, was bred by owner Nick Alexander and is trained by Steven Miyadi. She has five wins in 16 starts, earnings of $328,282 and is coming off a ninth in the July 4 Great Lady M. Chancery Way is by Mr. Big, out of the War Chant mare This Means War, was bred by Harris Farms and John Nicoletti, is owned by Andy Smolich & Rob Smolich and is trained by Jamey Thomas. The $6,500 purchase at the Northern California Yearling Sale out of the Harris Farms consignment has five wins in nine starts, earnings of $195,770 and is coming off win in the July 22 Governor’s Cup. Sunshine Babe is by Grazen,... ...

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Flashin Aces Enters Canadian Derby

EDMONTON, Alberta (Aug. 22, 2023) – Flashin Aces is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $200,000 Grade III Canadian Derby for 3-year-olds at Century Mile. Flashin Aces is by Danzing Candy, out of the Najran mare Sweet Dreamin, was bred by Kenneth O’Dyen, is owned by Pete Hormes and trained by James Brown. He has three wins in 12 starts, earnings of $38,671 and is coming off a win in an Aug. 6 claimer. ...

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Grigoro Enters Northlands Distaff

EDMONTON, Alberta (Aug. 22, 2023) – Grigoro is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Northlands Distaff Handicap for fillies and mares at Century Mile. Grigoro is by Haimish Hy, out of the Colonel John mare Royal Flush Babe, was bred by Art Sherman & Zvika Akin, is owned by Al Pitchko and trained by Rodney Cone. She has nine wins in 32 starts, earnings of $110,983 and is coming off a win in an Aug. 12 optional claimer. ...

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Self Isolation Praying for Saratoga Rain

SARATOGA, N.Y. (Aug. 22, 2023) – Self Isolation (main track only) is the lone California-bred entered in Friday’s $150,000 Smart N Fancy Stakes for fillies and mares at Saratoga. Self Isolation is by Square Eddie, out of the Spring At Last mare Loan Savant, was bred by Reddam Racing and is owned by trainer David Jacobson. She has nine wins in 24 starts, earnings of $427,370 and is coming off an Aug. 6 allowance win. ...

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Golden Gate Could Stay Open Until June

By DRF.com DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 16, 2023) – Golden Gate Fields, the Northern California flagship track scheduled to close in December, may stay open until June, pending meetings in coming weeks focused largely on financial arrangements, according to discussions at Wednesday’s California Horse Racing Board dates committee meeting. Officials with the Thoroughbred Owners of California made the proposal on Tuesday to the track’s parent company, 1/ST Racing, to continue racing at Golden Gate Fields in the first half of 2024 in an effort to provide short-term continuity for the Northern California racing circuit. The racing board heard more than two hours of discussions on 2024 racing dates in Northern and Southern California Thoroughbred racing on Wednesday, but did not make any formal recommendations. Racing dates for 2024 in Northern California have been in turmoil since 1/ST Racing announced on July 16 that it planned to close Golden Gate Fields in December in an effort to consolidate the company’s racing operations in the state to its track in Southern California,... ...

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TOC Women’s Horseplayer Event Aug. 24

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 16, 2023) – The Thoroughbred Owners of California is hosting a Women’s Horseplayer Event at the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club on Thursday, Aug. 24, beginning at noon in the Directors’ Room. The event, featuring horseplayers Judy Wagner and Alexa Zepp, will benefit the California Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Foundation. Cost is $50 per person. No CHRB license is required. The Directors’ Room is located on the Fifth Floor and Turf Club attire is required. For the Turf Club Dress Code, click Turf Club Dress Code. Tickets to the event can be purchased at this link: TicketSearch Online. ...

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Big Pond, Absolutely Zero Enter Oaks

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 16, 2023) – California-bred stakes winners Big Pond and Absolutely Zero are entered in Saturday’s $300,000 Grade I Del Mar Oaks for 3-year-old fillies. Big Pond is by Mr. Big, out of the Lemon Drop Kid mare Beside Still Water, was bred by owner George Krikorian and is trained by Tim Yakteen, She has won both starts with earnings of $136,350 and is coming off a win in the July 27 Fleet Treat Stakes. Absolutely Zero is by Nyquist, out of the Square Eddie mare How About Zero, was bred by owner Reddam Racing and is trained by Doug O’Neill. She has two wins in five starts, earnings of $119,260 and is coming off a sixth in the July 27 Fleet Treat Stakes. ...

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Northern California Yearling Sale Outs

As of 8/15/23 (Today’s additions in bold) Hips: 1, 2, 8, 10, 15, 17, 20, 21, 31, 37, 46, 48, 49, 50, 56, 57, 66, 72, 86, 88, 92, 94, 95, 100, 103, 105, 107, 109, 110, 115, 122, 124, 125, 126, 133, 136, 150, 152, 163, 167, 170, 172 ...

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Gregson Foundation to Honor John Harris

From TDN.com RANCHO SANTA FE, Calif. (July 3, 2023) — Thoroughbred owner and breeder John C. Harris will be honored at a charity fundraising dinner hosted by the Edwin J. Gregson Foundation. The event will take place Thursday, August 17, 2023, at The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe, in Rancho Santa Fe, CA, located just a few miles east of Del Mar Racetrack. “We’re delighted to honor John, not only for the accomplishments of his Harris Farms Horse Division, one of the country’s leading racing stables and utmost influential owner/breeder operations, for which he has been inducted into the California Racing Hall of Fame,” says Jenine Sahadi, Foundation President. “We also acknowledge him for his many years of distinguished service to this industry as a California Horse Racing Board commissioner, board member of the Breeders’ Cup, Jockey Club, and the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association.” Proceeds of the event will be used for continued sponsorship of various educational and recreational programs to benefit California’s backstretch workers and family members.  These programs... ...

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Ship Cadet Entered in Saratoga’s Skidmore

SARATOGA SPRING, N.Y. (Aug. 13, 2023) – Ship Cadet is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $150,000 Skidmore Stakes for 2-year-olds at Saratoga. Ship Cadet is by Midshipman, out of the Harbor the Gold mare Bella Mia, was bred by Mr. & Mrs. William Griffin, is owned by Paradise Farms, David Staudacher, Kevin Haynes and John Huber and is trained by Michael Maker. He has one win in three starts, earnings of $99,500 and is coming off a second in the July 30 Tyro Stakes. ...

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Optimistic Outlook for NorCal Yearling Sale

By DRF.com PLEASANTON, Calif. (Aug. 11, 2023) — Tuesday’s Northern California yearling and horses of racing age sale in Pleasanton will be held at a troubling time for racing on the West Coast. On July 16, 1/ST Racing announced that it will close the circuit’s leading track, Golden Gate Fields in Albany, Calif., in December in an effort to consolidate racing to the company’s Southern California track, Santa Anita, beginning in 2024. A group of county fair officials have busily worked in the last month to develop an alternative racing schedule for 2024 that will allow the sport to continue in Northern California. On Wednesday, those officials are scheduled to speak at the California Horse Racing Board’s dates committee meeting to address a 2024 schedule. The results of Tuesday’s sale, conducted by the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association, will be a barometer of the enthusiasm owners have in investing in the sport amid a climate of widespread uncertainty. The auction begins at noon Pacific on Tuesday at the Alameda County Fairgrounds with... ...

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Maiden Who Is Pavel Takes Best Pal Challenge

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 10, 2023) – Who Is Pavel is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $200,000 Grade III Best Pal Stakes for 2-year-olds at Del Mar. Who Is Pavel is by Pavel, out of the Square Eddie mare Quant Savant, was bred by owner Reddam Racing and is trained by Edward Freeman. He is a maiden making his second start with earnings of $2,132. ...

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Clovisconnection in Robert Dupret Derby

By DRF.com SANTA ROSA, Calif. (Aug. 9, 2023) – Since last fall, Clovisconnection has thrived in sprints, winning three stakes at Golden Gate Fields and Emerald Downs. A gelding, Clovisconnection is not considered a one-dimensional 3-year-old, a point trainer Blaine Wright hopes to prove in Saturday’s $75,000 Robert Dupret Derby at 1 1/16 miles on turf at the Sonoma County Fair in Santa Rosa, Calif. “We think he’ll be a heckuva of a 4-year-old,” Wright said. “We think his future is on the turf.” Clovisconnection, who races for owners and breeders William and Judy Hedrick, was second in the Silky Sullivan Stakes for California-breds at a mile on turf April 30 at Golden Gate Fields in his only career start on the surface. Clovisconnection was near the front throughout, led briefly in the stretch, and lost by a half-length. Since then, Clovisconnection has won two minor stakes for 3-year-old sprinters at Emerald Downs outside of Seattle. “The reason we’re coming back down there is his first race on turf,” Wright... ...

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Closing Remarks Takes Yellow Ribbon Shot

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 9, 2023) – Graded winner Closing Remarks is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $250,000 Grade II Yellow Ribbon Handicap for fillies and mares at Del Mar. Closing Remarks is by Vronsky, out of the Unusual Heat mare Orange Cove, was bred by owner Harris Farms and is trained by Carla Gaines. She has four wins in 20 starts, earnings of $561,320 and is coming off a sixth in the May 29 Gamely. ...

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Del Mar Friday First Post Shifts to 3:30 p.m.

From DMTC Publicity DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 7, 2023) — Del Mar has announced a change of its first post from 4 p.m. to 3:30 for this Friday, August 11. The adjustment has been put in place with consultation from the Southern California jockey colony and with approval by the California Horse Racing Board. The shift in post time will provide for better viewing conditions – due to sunlight – for Del Mar riders. The modification to first post on Friday, August 11 should allow the final race on the card to finish at approximately 7 p.m. ...

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Longacres Mile is Next for A Man’s Man

AUBURN, Wash. (Aug. 9, 2023) – Stakes winner A Man’s Man and fellow California-bred Seattle Bold are entered in Sunday’s $150,000 Longacres Mile at Emerald Downs. A Man’s Man is by Mucho Macho Man, out of the City Zip mare Longing, was bred by Richard Barton Enterprises, is owned by Remmah Racing and trained by Jorge Rosales. He has eight wins in 21 starts, earnings of $230,978 and is coming off a sixth in a July 23 optional claimer. Seattle Bold is by Bold Chieftain, out of the Roman Ruler mare Roman Wild, was bred by Myles McMahon, is owned by Peerenboom Racing Stables and trained by Dan Markle. He has six wins in 19 starts, earnings of $194,486 and is coming off a back-to-back claiming wins. ...

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Daffodil Sweet Tries Emerald Distaff Again

AUBURN, Wash. (Aug. 9, 2023) – Multiple stakes winner Daffodil Sweet and fellow California-bred Nan Elizabeth are entered in Sunday’s $50,000 Emerald Distaff Stakes for fillies and mares at Emerald Downs. Daffodil Sweet is by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Lion Heart mare Easy on My Heart, was bred by Michael Terry, is owned by One Horse Will Do Corp., and is trained by Marshall Allen. She has 10 wins in 19 starts, earnings of $200,161 and is coming off a July 30 optional claiming win. She was sixth in this race in 2021. Nan Elizabeth is by Flat Out, out of the Belong to Me mare Maryneill, was bred by Stepaside Farm and is owned by trainer Luciano Gabriel. She has five wins in 20 starts, earnings of $75,160 and is coming off three consecutive claiming wins. ...

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Dads Estrella Could Star in Washington Oaks

AUBURN, Wash. (Aug. 9, 2023) – Dads Estrella is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $50,000 Washington Oaks for 3-year-old fillies at Emerald Downs. Dads Estrella is by Dads Caps, out of the Street Sense mare La Strada, was bred by Richard Barton Enterprises, is owned by Alvarez Racing Stables and trained by Sergio Alvarez. She has three wins in 11 starts, earnings of $61,615 and is coming off a fourth in the July 16 Kent Stakes. ...

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Royal Halo Steps Up to Muckleshoot Derby

AUBURN, Wash. (Aug. 9, 2023) – Royal Halo is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $50,000 Muckleshoot Derby for 3-year-olds at Emerald Downs. Royal Halo is by Curlin to Mischief, out of the Good Reward mare Sunpenny, was bred by Z Thoroughbred Racing, is owned by Steve Zerda and trained by Frank Lucarelli. He has two wins in nine starts, earnings of $86,460 and is coming off a fourth in the July 16 Irish Day. ...

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Pushiness Gets Her Way in CTBA Stakes

By DRF.com DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 6, 2023) – In a matter of strides, the $125,500 California Thoroughbred Breeders Association Stakes for Golden State Series-eligible 2-year-old fillies at Del Mar on Sunday was over before it really got underway. Odds-on favorite Pushiness ($3.20) took the lead a few jumps from the gate and was never truly threatened, winning her stakes debut by 1 3/4 lengths in the sprint for California-bred 2-year-old fillies. “She’s really fast,” jockey Umberto Rispoli said as he left the winner’s circle. “I was trying not to overdo it the first part. I wanted to get her running and let her come back and relax.” Pushiness set early fractions of 22 seconds for the opening quarter-mile and 45.25 for a half-mile, leading by at least a length throughout. Crazy Hot made a mild bid toward the front on the turn but could not sustain the threat. Pushiness led by three lengths with a furlong remaining and held off a threat from 5-2 Grand Slam Smile in the... ...

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CTBA Sale Grad Lines Up for Graduation

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 6, 2023) – California Thoroughbred Breeders Association January Sale graduate Lord Prancealot, a sharp 3 ½-length debut winner, is among entries in Friday’s $125,000 Graduation Stakes for Golden State Series-eligible 2-year-olds at Del Mar. Refocus is by Pavel, out of the Square Eddie mare Redo It, was bred by owner Reddam Racing and is trained by Doug O’Neill. He has one win in two starts, earnings of $48,600 and is coming off a third in the June 17 Fasig-Tipton Futurity. Mici’s Express is by Slew’s Tiznow, out of the Harlan’s Holiday mare Harlan Express, was bred by Eagle Ridge Racing & Rancho San Miguel, is owned by Thomas Halasz and trained by Steve Knapp. He has one win in five starts, earnings of $73,280 and is coming off a July 22 maiden win. Last Call London is by Stay Thirsty, out of the Empire Way mare Zo Lo’s Lov, was bred by Terry Lovingier, is owned by Tom London, Lovingier and Eugene Zondlo and is trained... ...

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Bus Buzz a Buzzsaw in Real Good Deal Stakes

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 4, 2023) — Bus Buzz shook free heading into the turn and ran off to win Friday’s $175,000 Real Good Deal Stakes for Golden State Series-eligible 3-year-olds at Del Mar. Bus Buzz is by Stay Thirsty, out of the Bring the Heat mare Lost Bus, was bred by Terry Lovingier, is owned by Lovinger, Halasz and Navarro and trained by Steve Knapp. “I told Edwin to get six, seven, eight lengths in front and if we get beat we get beat,” said Knapp. “At the quarter pole I could see that Kangaroo Court was all out trying to catch him and he just got tired trying to catch us.” Bus Buzz has three wins in five starts, earnings of $222,150 and was coming off a win in a May 28 optional claimer. He ran the seven furlongs in 1:22.97 and won by four lengths as the 9-5 second choice in a field of six. Finishing second in the heat was J. Kirk and Judy Robison’s Giver... ...

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NorCal Sale Grad Fly a Fantasy in CTBA Stakes

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 3, 2023) – Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Fly a Fantasy takes on stakes winner Grand Slam Smile in Sunday’s $125,000 California Thoroughbred Breeders Association Stakes for Golden State Series-eligible 2-year-old fillies at Del Mar. Fly a Fantasy is by Smiling Tiger, out of the Desert Code mare Almost Reality, was bred by Harris Farms, is owned by Harris Farms, John Cavalli, Mark Stanton and Stephanie Wedge and is trained by Jeff Bonde. The $29,000 purchase at last year’s Northern California Yearling Sale, out of the Harris Farms consignment, won his lone start Apr. 29 with earnings of $36,600. Grand Slam Smile is by Smiling Tiger, out of the Grand Slam mare Royal Grand Slam, was bred by owners Mr. & Mrs. Larry Williams and is trained by Steven Specht. She has won both starts with earnings of $83,400 and is coming off a win in the June 17 Fasig-Tipton Debutante Stakes. Pushiness is by Kantharos, out of the Empire Maker mare Imperial Pippin, was bred... ...

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Fun to Dream About Another Grade I Win

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 2, 2023) – California-bred Horse of the Year Fun to Dream takes on stablemate Adare Manor in Saturday’s $400,000 Grade I Clement L. Hirsch Stakes for fillies and mares at Del Mar. Fun to Dream is by Arrogate, out of the Maria’s Mon mare Lutess, was bred by Connie Pageler and trainer Bob Baffert and is owned by Natalie Baffert and Pageler. She has six wins in eight starts, earnings of $646,590 and is coming off a second in the Mar. 11 Grade I Beholder Mile. ...

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Carmelita’s Man Dreamin’ of a Repeat

DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 2, 2023) – Defending champion Carmelita’s Man is one of eight stakes winner entered in Saturday’s $150,000 California Dreamin’ Stakes for Golden State Series eligibles at Del Mar. Royal ‘n Rando is by Tamarando, out of the Grand Slam mare Royal Grand Slam, was bred by owners Mr. & Mrs. Larry Williams and is trained by Steven Specht. He has six wins in 19 starts, earnings of $202,094 and is coming off a seventh in the May 29 All American. Hacking It Up is by Nyquist, out of the Square Eddie mare Hacktivism, was bred by Reddam Racing, is owned by Qatar Racing and trained by George Papaprodromou. He has three wins in nine starts, earnings of $161,080 and is coming off a seventh in the May 28 Snow Chief Stakes, presented by City National Bank. None Above the Law is by Karakontie, out of the Northern Afleet mare Legally Blanca, was bred by owners J. Kirk and Judy Robison and is trained by Peter Miller.... ...

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NorCal Sale Grad Seeks Another Stake

SANTA ROSA, Calif. (Aug. 2, 2023) – Northern California Yearling Sales graduate Chancery Way and fellow California-bred Tam’s Little Angel are among four California-breds entered in Saturday’s $75,000 Luther Burbank Stakes for fillies and mares at the Sonoma County Fair. Chancery Way is by Mr. Big, out of the War Chant mare This Means War, was bred by Harris Farms & John Nicoletti, is owned by Andy Smolich & Rob Smolich and is trained by Jamey Thomas. The $6,500 purchase at the Northern California Yearling Sale, consigned by Harris Farms, has five wins in nine starts, earnings of $195,770 and is coming off a win in the July 22 Governor’s Cup. Tam’s Little Angel is by Tamarando, out of the Lucky Pulpit mare Angel Diane, was bred by owners Mr. & Mrs. Larry Williams and is trained by Steven Specht. She has four wins in 20 starts, earnings of $201,908 and is coming off a seventh in the June 24 She’s a Tiger. Councilwoman Judy is by Roi Charmant, out... ...

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Bourbon Tiger Enters Lassie Stakes

AUBURN, Wash. (Aug. 2, 2023) – Bourbon Tiger is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $50,000 W.T.B.O.A. Lassie Stakes for 2-year-old fillies at Emerald Downs. Bourbon Tiger is by Smiling Tiger, out of the Sky Mesa mare Spring Again, was bred by PT Syndicate # 1, is owned by Dan Warden & Double R Racing and is trained by Blaine Wright. She has one win in two starts, earnings of $19,920 and is coming off a third in the July 9 Angie C. Stakes. ...

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Santa Rosa Racing Opens Thursday

By DRF.com SANTA ROSA, Calif. (Aug. 2, 2023) — The Sonoma County Fair in Santa Rosa, Calif., begins a two-week race meeting on Thursday, the only venue of the five racing fairs in Northern California with a turf course. The course will be in action extensively through the seven-day meeting, which runs from Thursday through Sunday this week and from Aug. 11-13. There are seven-race programs on Thursday and Friday, with three turf races on Thursday and four on Friday. There are two $75,000 stakes at 1 1/16 miles on turf during the brief meeting – the Luther Burbank Stakes for fillies and mares on Saturday, and the Robert Dupret Derby for 3-year-olds on Aug. 12. This is the first race meeting with any turf racing in Northern California since the conclusion of the Golden Gate winter-spring meeting on June 11. The Alameda County Fair in Pleasanton and Cal-Expo in Sacramento held fair meetings in June and July, but race only on dirt. The Humboldt County Fair in Ferndale and the... ...

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One in Vermillion Seeks West Virginia Payday

NEW CUMBERLAND, W. Va. (Aug. 1, 2023) – Multiple stakes winner One in Vermillion and fellow California-breds My Man Biggie and Knockout Guy are entered in Sunday’s $500,000 Grade III West Virginia Derby for 3-year-olds at Mountaineer Casino and Racetrack. One in Vermillion is by Army Mule, out of the Any Given Saturday mare Given Star, was bred by Richard Barton Enterprises, is owned by Jonathan Kalman and trained by Esteban Martinez. He has five wins in 10 starts, earnings of $328,840 and is coming off a second in the July 8 Iowa Derby. My Man Biggie is by Mr. Big, out of the Yankee Gentleman mare Twin Spirit, was bred by George Krikorian and is owned by Shannon Simpson. He has two wins in 17 starts, earnings of $51,357 and is coming off a third in a July 29 allowance. Knockout Guy is an also-eligible by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Distorted Humor mare Knockout Bertie, was bred by Stormy Hull & Guy Hull, is owned by Bradford... ...

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Magic Tiger Entered in Manitoba Mile

WINNIPEG, Manitoba (Aug. 3, 2023) – Stakes winner Magic Tiger is the lone California-bred entered in Monday’s $50,000 Harvey Warner Manitoba Mile Stakes at Assiniboia Downs. Magic Tiger is by Smiling Tiger, out of the Lucky Pulpit mare Funny Gal, was bred by Robert Heinz and Michelle Machado, is owned by Wind Dancer Stable and Bill Meikle and trained by Wendy Anderson. He has 10 wins in 27 starts, earnings of $130,729 and is coming off a win in the July 19 R.J. Speers Memorial. ...

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Big Stretch Seeks an Escape Clause

WINNIPEG, Manitoba (Aug. 3, 2023) – Big Stretch is the lone California-bred entered in Monday’s $50,000 Escape Clause Stakes for fillies and mares at Assiniboia Downs. Big Stretch is by Mr. Big, out of the Curlin mare Baby Zito, was bred by George Krikorian, is owned by A2 Thoroughbreds and trained by Michael Nault. She has three wins in 29 starts, earnings of $150,449 and is coming off a second in the July 18 Canada Stakes. ...

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Seven Cal-breds in Friday’s Real Good Deal

By DRF.com DEL MAR, Calif. (July 30, 2023) – The $151,000 Echo Eddie Stakes at Santa Anita in April produced one of the most thrilling finishes of the early spring when Kangaroo Court edged Bus Buzz by a head after the pair fought through the stretch. Since then, their seasons have gone in different directions, but Bus Buzz and Kangaroo Court figure to be the prominent runners in Friday’s $175,000 Real Good Deal Stakes for statebred 3-year-olds at seven furlongs at Del Mar. Kangaroo Court, bred by Richard Barton Enterprises and owned by George Sharp, finished 11th of 13 as the 4-1 favorite in the Grade 2 Pat Day Mile at Churchill Downs on May 6. Kangaroo Court disputed the early pace from an inside post, but faded tamely on the turn under jockey John Velazquez. “He never took Johnny along,” trainer Tim Yakteen said. “Of the horses I had back there, he was the one that took to the surface. He was the one that didn’t show up.” “He was... ...

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The Chosen Vron Risks Seven-Race Streak

By Bloodhorse.com DEL MAR, Calif. (July 26, 2023) —  The Chosen Vron may be exiting California-bred stakes for the July 29 $400,000 Bing Crosby Stakes (G1) at Del Mar, but he is riding a seven-race win streak that extends almost a year. The 5-year-old gelding is both fast and consistent. After The Chosen Vron won his seventh consecutive Cal-bred stakes in the May 28 Thor’s Echo Stakes at Santa Anita Park, trainer, co-owner, and co-breeder Eric Kruljac was asked whether graded company might be next. “I think running him at Del Mar, if I have six to eight weeks between races, we’ve got to try him one time,” Kruljac said. The Chosen Vron won back-to-back graded races in 2021, defeating Laurel River in the Lazaro Barrera Stakes (G3) and Defunded in the Affirmed Stakes (G3). Bob Baffert trained Laurel River and Defunded, and the latter heads the 1 1/16-mile San Diego Handicap (G2) on the same card as the six-furlong Crosby. Since then, Kruljac has frequently given The Chosen Vron... ...

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Slow Down Andy, Brickyard Ride in San Diego

DEL MAR, Calif. (July 26, 2023) – Slow Down Andy and Brickyard Ride, multiple graded-stakes winning California-breds, are entered in Saturday’s $300,000 Grade II San Diego Handicap at Del Mar. Slow Down Andy is by Nyquist, out of the Square Eddie mare Edwina E, was bred by owner Reddam Racing and is trained by Doug O’Neill. He has four wins in 11 starts, earnings of $916,600 and is coming off a sixth in the June 10 Hill ‘N’ Dale Metropolitan. Brickyard Ride is by Clubhouse Ride, out of the Southern Image mare Brickyard Helen, was bred by owner Alfred Pais and is trained by Craig Lewis. He has 13 wins in 26 starts, earnings of $828,977 and is coming off a third in the May 28 Thor’s Echo. ...

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Noms Close Thursday for Golden State Stakes

DEL MAR, Calif. (July 26, 2023) – Nominations for a trio of Golden State Series stakes at Del Mar close on Thursday, July 26. Those stakes are: The $175,000 Real Good Deal Stakes for 3-year-olds, at seven furlongs, to be run Friday, Aug. 4; The $150,000 California Dreamin’ Stakes for 3-year-olds & up, at 1 1/16 miles on the turf, to be run Saturday, Aug. 5; The $125,000 CTBA Stakes for 2-year-old fillies, at 5 ½ furlongs, to be run Sunday, Aug. 6. Also closing on Thursday are nominations for the open $400,000 Grade I Clement Hirsch for fillies and mares, at 1 1/16 miles, to be run Saturday, Aug. 5, and the $150,000 Grade III La Jolla Handicap for 3-year-olds, at 1 1/16 miles on turf, to be run Sunday, Aug. 6. To nominate, contact Racing Secretary David Jerkins at 858-755-1141 x 3815. ...

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Cal-bred Ship Cadet Enters Tyro Stakes

OCEANPORT, N.J. (July 28, 2023) – Ship Cadet is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $100,000 Tyro Stakes for 2-year-olds at Monmouth Park. Ship Cadet is by Midshipman, out of the Harbor the Gold mare Bella Mia, was bred by Mr. & Mrs. William Griffin, is owned by Paradise Farms Corp., David Staudacher, Kevin Haynes and John Huber and is trained by Michael Maker. He has one win in two starts, earnings of $79,500 and is coming off a second in the June 11 Tremont Stakes. ...

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Sassy Nature in Daisycutter Stakes

DEL MAR, Calif. (July 23, 2023) – Stakes-winning California-bred Sassy Nature is entered in Friday’s $100,000 Daisycutter Stakes for fillies and mares at Del Mar. Sassy Nature is by Straight Fire, out of the After Market mare Renee’s Queen, was bred by Straight Fire, LLC, is owned by C T R Stables and trained by Luis Mendez. She has three wins in eight starts, earnings of $173,990 and is coming off a second in the June 11 Dream of Summer. ...

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Before Cotillion, Ceiling Crusher in Fleet Treat

By DRF.com DEL MAR, Calif. (July 23, 2023) — Before she ships east later this summer for a million-dollar Grade 1, the undefeated Ceiling Crusher, a graduate of the Northern California Yearling Sale, gets another chance to run up the score Thursday at Del Mar. Romping winner of two California-bred stakes, by a combined margin of more than 32 lengths, Ceiling Crusher looks odds-on in the $175,000 Fleet Treat Stakes for Golden State Series eligible 3-year-old fillies. After that, deeper water. “We’re optimistic Thursday is going to go well and she’s going to come out of in good shape,” trainer Doug O’Neill said. “And then the Cotillion, that’s our big swing.” The Grade 1 Cotillion on Sept. 23 at Parx Racing might seem ambitious for a Cal-bred who has never faced open company. But it so happens that Ceiling Crusher is the fastest filly in the West. Her 94 sprint Beyer Speed Figure two back, and 92 route fig last out, are the highest this season by a 3-year-old filly... ...

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Warren’s Candy Girl Entered in Osunitas

DEL MAR, Calif. (July 19, 2023) – Stakes winner Warren’s Candy Girl is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Osunitas Stakes for fillies and mares at Del Mar. Warren’s Candy Girl is by Clubhouse Ride, out of the Affirmative mare Warren’s Jitterbug, was bred by owners Ben and Sally Warren and is trained by Craig Lewis. She has five wins in 23 starts, earnings of $421,360 and is coming off a fifth in the May 28 Fran’s Valentine. ...

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Chancery Way, Sadie Bluegrass in Governor’s Cup

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (July 19, 2023) – Northern California Yearling Sales graduate Chancery Way and fellow stakes winner Sadie Bluegrass are among the California-breds entered in Sunday’s $75,000 Governor’s Cup for fillies and mares at Cal-Expo. Chancery Way is by Mr. Big, out of the War Chant mare This Means War, was bred by Harris Farms & John Nicoletti, is owned by Andy Smolich and Rob Smolich and is trained by Jamey Thomas. The $6,500 purchase at the Northern California Yearling Sale has four wins in eight starts, earnings of $150,770 and is coming off a third in the June 11 Dream of Summer. Sadie Bluegrass is by Bluegrass Cat, out of the Grazen mare Sadie Clare, was bred by Nick Alexander, is owned by Madden Racing, Hon Cheung Kum and Hsui Mei Tsai and trained by Ruby Thomas. She has 14 wins in 24 starts, earnings of $346,080 and is coming off a win in the June 11 Dream of Summer. Miss Union is by Unionize, out of the Perfect... ...

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Fowler Blue Enters Monmouth Cup

OCEANPORT, N.J. (July 19, 2023) – Fowler Blue, fresh off a record-setting performance at Ellis Park, is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $400,000 Grade III Monmouth Cup Stakes at Monmouth Park. Fowler Blue is by Curlin to Mischief, out of the Unusual Heat mare Roses for Joni, was bred by William Branch & Arnold Hill, is owned by Branch and trained by Doug O’Neill. He has three wins in 15 starts, earnings of $159,249 and is coming off a win in an allowance that set a track record of 2:15.70 for 1 3/8 miles on a muddy dirt track. ...

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Bridleuptothebar Seeks Consecutive Stakes

AUBURN, Wash. (July 19, 2023) – Stakes winner Bridleuptothebar and fellow California-breds Polacco, Smiling Goodbye and A Man’s Man are entered in Sunday’s $50,000 Governor’s Stakes at Emerald Downs. Bridleuptothebar is by Fullbridled, out of the Thisnearlywasmine mare Nearlycocktailtime, was bred by Mark Rydman & Holly Rydman, is owned by Holly Rydman and is trained by Niccolo Troiani. He has five wins in nine starts, earnings of $91,189 and is coming off a win in the June 25 Budweiser Stakes. Polacco is by Bluegrass Cat, out of the More Than Ready mare Penny N Mitzi, was bred by Michael Jawl, is owned by Carter James and trainer Jillian Soranno. He has six wins in 14 starts, earnings of $61,196 and is coming off a fourth in a July 2 optional claimer. Smiling Goodbye is by Smiling Tiger, out of the Muqtarib mare Quickly Gone, was bred by Harris Farms, is owned by Little Barn Racing and trained by Debby Peery. He has three wins in 14 starts, earnings of $86,845... ...

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Cause She’s a Lady in Emerald Downs Stakes

AUBURN, Wash. (July 19, 2023) – Cause She’s a Lady is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $50,000 Washington State Legislators Stakes for fillies and mares at Emerald Downs. Cause She’s a Lady is by Creative Cause, out of the Warrior’s Reward mare Warriorscmoutoplay, was bred by Thomas Bachman, is owned by Quest Racing and trained by Blaine Wright. She has three wins in 11 starts, earnings of $83,610 and is coming off a third in the June 25 Hastings Stakes. ...

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Fairs Could Step in When Golden Gate Closes

By Los Angeles Times In a major move that will change California horse racing, The Stronach Group announced Sunday that it will cease racing at Golden Gate Fields in the Bay Area at the end of its meeting on Dec. 19. The move is being made to help prop up racing at Santa Anita by increasing field sizes and the possibility of adding a fourth day of racing back to the Arcadia track. It’s unclear what will happen to the land that straddles Albany and Berkeley, but one possibility is that it could become either a state park or an open green space. Other possibilities have not been ruled out. “We believe that the future success of racing depends on a business model that encourages investment in Southern California, one of North America’s premier racing circuits,” said Belinda Stronach, chief executive and president of The Stronach Group. “Focusing on Santa Anita Park and San Luis Rey Downs as a state-of-the-art racing and training facilities that offer enhanced program quality, increased... ...

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Cal-bred Stablemates Meet in Count Lathum

EDMONTON, Alberta (July 18, 2023) – California-bred stablemates Northern Jewel and Cali Conquest are entered in Saturday’s $50,000 Count Lathum Handicap for 3-year-olds at Century Mile. Northern Jewel is by Kitten’s Joy, out of the Street Cry mare Northern Station, was bred by Tommy Town Thoroughbreds, is owned by Al Pitchko and trained by Rodney Cone. He has one win in 10 starts, earnings of $21,289 and is coming off a second in a July 1 allowance. Cali Conquest is by Conquest Farenheit, out of the Two Step Salsa mare Salsita, was bred by Rockingham Ranch, is owned by Al Pitchko and trained by Rodney Cone. He has one win in 14 starts, earnings of $48,058 and is coming off a fourth in a June 23 optional claimer. ...

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Pair of Smiling Tigers Enter R.J. Speers

WINNIPEG, Manitoba (July 17, 2023) – Multiple stakes winner Tiger Dad and fellow California-bred Magic Tiger, both sons of Smiling Tiger, are entered in Wednesday’s $50,000 R.J. Speers Memorial Stakes at Assiniboia Downs. Tiger Dad is out of the Unusual Heat mare Q T Shea, was bred by Mark Devereaux, Scott Gross & Mark Gross, is owned by Rosette Ranch and trained by Robertino Diodoro. He has eight wins in 39 starts, earnings of $513,250 and is coming off a win in the June 28 Free Press Stakes.   Magic Tiger is out of the Lucky Pulpit mare Funny Gal, was bred by Robert Heinz & Michelle Machado, is owned by Wind Dancer Stable & Bill Meikle and is trained by Wendy Anderson. He has nine wins in 26 starts, earnings of $107,492 and is coming off a third in the June 28 Free Press Stakes. ...

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Weekend Racing Canceled at Cal Expo

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (July 12, 2023) — The California State Fair at Cal Expo canceled its opening weekend race programs out of safety concerns over projected extreme temperatures in Sacramento. Like all race meets in California, the State Fair follows the Inclement Weather Policy (IWP) developed by the California Horse Racing Board, a policy that includes recommendations and requirements pertaining to the heat index, which is a combination of temperature, wind speed, and humidity. The IWP lists the heat index in steps, beginning at 130, the point at which some horses experience discomfort. The danger to horses increases at 150, then reaches a critical level at 180. Although the heat index is not expected to reach 150 in Sacramento this weekend, so racing could have taken place provided horses were given plenty of water and other cooling techniques, management at Cal Expo in consultation with the CHRB and the California Authority of Racing Fairs (CARF) elected to cancel racing on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday out of an abundance of... ...

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TOBA Owners Seminar July 23 at Del Mar

From TOBA DEL MAR, Calif. (July 12, 2023) – The Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association will hold an owners seminar on Friday, July 23, in the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club Directors Room. This one-of-a-kind owner education experience will take place in the Director’s Room with stunning views of “Where the Surf Meets the Turf.” Attendees will have the opportunity to stretch their legs during a barn tour, network with fellow (or perspective) owners and hear from experts on many facets of the industry and Thoroughbred ownership. Attendees will learn insights on different aspects of Thoroughbred ownership, partnerships, legal aspects, racing office policy & procedures, veterinary perspectives, and more from industry professionals as well as enjoy a day at the races, compliments of the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club. Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association Educational seminars are open to both TOBA members and non-members, with discounts for members of TOBA or any hosting/sponsor organizations. Meals, materials, and a TOBA gift bag are included with registration. Price – $129/Non-TOBA Member or $99/TOBA Member. Contact Barkley Porter... ...

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Big Stretch Entered in Canada Stakes

WINNIPEG, Manitoba (July 14, 2023) – Big Stretch is the lone California-bred entered in Monday night’s $50,000 Canada Stakes for fillies and mares at Assiniboia Downs. Big Stretch is by Mr. Big, out of the Curlin mare Mr. Zito, was bred by George Krikorian, is owned by A2 Thoroughbreds and trained by Michael Nault. She has three wins in 28 starts, earnings of $142,722 and is coming off a fourth in the June 27 La Verendrye Stakes. ...

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Cashing Big Checks in Caesar’s Wish

LAUREL, Md. (July 9, 2023) – Stakes winner Cashing Big Checks, a graduate of the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association’s January Sale, is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Caesar’s Wish Stakes for fillies and mares at Laurel Park. Cashing Big Checks is by Mr. Big, out of the Indian Charlie mare Palisadesprincess, was bred by George Krikorian is owned by David Bernsen and trained by Lacey Gaudet. The $1,500 purchase at the CTBA January Sale has four wins in 20 starts, earnings of $212,260 and is coming off a fifth in a June 3 optional claimer. ...

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Everett Nevin Draws Seven California-breds

PLEASANTON, Calif. (July 6, 2023) – Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Kristin Lee is one of seven California-breds entered in Sunday’s $75,000 Everett Nevin Stakes for 2-year-olds at the Alameda County Fair. Shady Appeal is by Twice the Appeal, out of the Bandini mare Santa Lucia, was bred by owner Rusty Brown and is trained by Jeff Bonde. He won his lone start June 11 with earnings of $36,600. Lusma is a filly by Conquest Farenheit, out of the Strike for Glory mare Strike at Daylight, was bred by Rockingham Ranch, is owned by Hector Preciado and is trained by Jose Bautista. She has one win in two starts, earnings of $28,080 and is coming off a May 28 maiden win. Wild Jewels is by Tamarando, out of the Distorted Humor mare Ribbon of Jewels, was bred by owners Mr. & Mrs. Larry Williams and is trained by Steven Specht. He won his lone start June 25 with earnings of $20,280. Halo Rando is by Tamarando, out of the Lucky... ...

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Cal-bred Pair Tangle in Pleasanton Mile

PLEASANTON, Calif. (July 6, 2023) – California-bred stakes winners American Farmer and Royal ‘n Rando are entered in Sunday’s $150,000 Pleasanton Mile at the Alameda County Fair. American Farmer is by Bluegrass Cat, out of the Quiet American mare Farmers Wife, was bred by BKB Stables and is owned by BKB Stables and trainer Steve Sherman. He has six wins in 36 starts, earnings of $338,390 and is coming off a second in the May 29 All American Stakes. Royal ‘n Rando is an also-eligible by Tamarando, out of the Grand Slam mare Royal Grand Slam, was bred by owners Mr. & Mrs. Larry Williams and is trained by Steven Specht. He has six wins in 19 starts, earnings of $202,094 and is coming off a seventh in the May 29 All American Stakes. ...

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Angie C. Stakes Next for Bourbon Tiger

AUBURN, Wash. (July 6, 2023) – Bourbon Tiger is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $50,000 Angie C. Stakes for 2-year-old fillies at Emerald Downs. Bourbon Tiger is by Smiling Tiger, out of the Sky Mesa mare Spring Again, was bred by PT Syndicate #1, is owned by Dan Warden and Double R Racing and is trained by Blaine Wright. She won her lone start June 17 and has earnings of $12,920. ...

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Spitten Kitten Risks Streak in Jack Hardy

WINNIPEG, Manitoba (July 6, 2023) – Spitten Kitten, who has a three-race win streak, and fellow California-bred The Comrie Rule are entered in Monday’s $50,000 Jack Hardy Stakes for 3-year-old fillies at Assiniboia Downs. Spitten Kitten is by Air Force Blue, out of the Kitten’s Joy mare Zahrah, was bred by Richard Barton Enterprises and is owned by trainer Marvin Buffalo, Deb Buffalo and Arnold Souster. She has four wins in seven starts, earnings of $58,380 and is coming off a win in the June 20 Chantilly Stakes. The Comrie Rule is by Stay Thirsty, out of the Mr. Greeley mare Star Chant, was bred by Rusty Brown, Debi Brown & Victor Flores, is owned by Carol Brown and trained by Allan Brown. She has one win in 11 starts, earnings of $18,885 and is coming off a fourth in a June 28 allowance. ...

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Gallant Guy in Jonathan B. Schuster Stakes

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (July 4, 2023) – Gallant Guy is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Jonathan B. Schuster Memorial Stakes at Horseshoe Indianapolis. Gallent Guy is by Gallant Son, out of the Swiss Yodeler mare Quick Glory, was bred by Daehling Ranch and is owned by Cheryl Doyle, trainer Reina Gonzalez, Matthew Gutierrez and Gary Piper. He has four wins in 26 starts, earnings of $197,242 and is coming off a May 25 optional claiming win. ...

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Shimmer Me Timbers Enters Garrett

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (July 4, 2023) — Shimmer Me Timbers is the lone California-bred entered in Friday’s $100,000 William Garrett Handicap at Horseshoe Indianapolis. Shimmer Me Timbers is by Eddington, out of the Rocky Bar mare Speedy Shimmer, was bred by Melissa Ford, is owned by Luis Jimenez and trained by Chris Goroslieta. He has four wins in eight starts, earnings of $95,220 and is coming off a  third in a May 23 optional claimer. ...

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One in Vermillion Enters Iowa Derby

ALTOONA, Iowa (July 2, 2023) – Multiple stakes winner One in Vermillion is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday night’s $300,000 Iowa Derby for 3-year-olds at Prairie Meadows. One in Vermillion is by Army Mule, out of the Any Given Saturday mare Given Star, was bred by Richard Barton Enterprises, is owned by Jonathan Kalman and trained by Esteban Martinez. He has five wins in nine starts, earnings of $279,240 and is coming off a second in the June 21 Canterbury Derby. ...

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Funeral Service July 11 for William Meyers

By DRF.com LODI, Calif. (June 30, 2023) — A funeral service will be held on July 11 at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Lodi, Calif., for state steward William Meyers, who died from health complications on June 10. The service will begin at 11 a.m. The church is located at 1055 South Lower Sacramento Road. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Racetrack Chaplaincy is requested. Meyers was 69. He was a racing official in California for more than 40 years and worked as recently as earlier this year at Golden Gate Fields. Will came from a racing family. His father was a steward and racing secretary. “Naturally, I started working with horses myself,” he once said. “When I was a boy we lived in Arcadia, then Coronado, and on weekends I would go down to Caliente to groom and pony horses. Later, I worked as a stewards’ aide in Stockton, Sacramento, and Ferndale.” Will rose through the ranks of racing officials and became a steward in 1984. He... ...

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Rose Maddox, Chismosa in Great Lady M.

From Los Alamitos Publicity CYPRESS, Calif. (June 30, 2023) – California-breds Rose Maddox and Chismosa take on likely favorite Elm Drive in Tuesday’s $200,000 Great Lady M. Stakes for fillies and mares at Los Alamitos. A Grade II at 6 ½ furlongs, the Great Lady M. is the final of nine races on the special Fourth of July program. Post time is 1 p.m. and scheduled post time for the main event is 5:05 p.m. Trainer Steve Miyadi and owner-breeder Nick Alexander, who won this race in 2022 with Becca Taylor, will try to go back-to-back with Rose Maddox. A 4-year-old gray daughter of Grazen and the Unusual Heat mare Heat the Rocks, Rose Maddox has won five of 15 and earned $327,782. Worse than third only twice, she was most recently second in the Fran’s Valentine at one mile on turf, defeated by a half-length by Eddie’s New Dream. Chismosa will be cutting back in distance after finishing third in the Melair May 28, a race prohibitive favorite Ceiling... ...

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Solid Field for Mary Clare Schmitt Pleasanton Oaks

By DRF.com PLEASANTON, Calif. (June 30, 2023) — Just a Little Luck will be near the front in Sunday’s $75,000 Mary Clare Schmitt Pleasanton Oaks for California-breds and sired 3-year-old fillies at six furlongs at the Alameda County Fair. Whether she will set the pace or race as a stalker will be up to the filly. “She places herself,” trainer Andy Mathis said. “She’s not one you can fight with. If she wants to be forward and wants to be on the front end, you can’t convince her otherwise.” Just a Little Luck — a daughter of Straight Fire owned by breeders Terry Knight, Jean Annuzzi & Mel Annuzzi — led throughout a maiden race at 5 1/2 furlongs in her 2023 debut on March 11 at Golden Gate Fields, and was beaten a nose in an allowance race at that distance on April 21 after stalking the pace. “I think she has a chance,” Mathis said. “I thought the day she broke her maiden she ran well on the... ...

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Top Harbor, Cool Mountain Lad in Oak Tree

By DRF.com PLEASANTON, Calif. (June 28, 2023) – Top Harbor is a length away from an unbeaten record in Northern California this year, which is why the 5-year-old horse will be favored to win Saturday’s $75,000 Oak Tree Sprint for California-breds or sireds at the Alameda County Fair. After finishing second by three-quarters of a length in the El Dorado Shooter Stakes at Golden Gate Fields in February, Top Harbor — a son of Harbor the Gold bred by owners Eric Schweiger, Gordy Jarnig & Kenny Marshall — won consecutive starts in an allowance race and the Lost in the Fog Stakes in April. The winning streak ended with a fast-closing second by a neck in the Albany Stakes at five furlongs on turf on June 11. “He’s a gamer everywhere you go,” trainer Tim McCanna said. The Oak Tree Sprint at six furlongs will be Top Harbor’s first start at Pleasanton since a second in the 2021 Oak Tree Sprint. :: Take your handicapping to the next level and play... ...

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Self Isolation Enters Monmouth’s Regret

OCEANPORT, N.J. (June 28, 2023) – Self Isolation is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Regret Stakes for fillies and mares at Monmouth Park. Self Isolation is by Square Eddie, out of the Spring At Last mare Loan Savant, was bred by Reddam Racing and is owned by trainer David Jacobson She has eight wins in 22 starts, earnings of $382,370 and is coming off a June 16 optional claiming win. ...

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Cal-bred Pair Eye Los Alamitos Derby

CYPRESS, Calif. (June 30, 2023) – California-breds Clouseau and McGregor Lake have been nominated to the July 8 $125,000 Los Alamitos Derby for 3-year-olds, to be run at 1 1/8 miles. Clouseau is by Distorted Humor, out of the Bernardini mare English Garden, was bred by PT Syndicate #1, is owned by  ISK Racing Stable Inc., Doug Hames, Rebekah Lawless, Tom Lawless, Frank Lewkowitz, and Karen Lewkowitz and trained by Ian Kruljac. He has three wins in seven starts, earnings of $173,360 and is coming off a second in the May 28 Snow Chief Stakes, presented by City National Bank. McGregor Lake is by Saburo, out of the Idiot Proof mare Spectacular Proof, was bred by owner Ruis Racing and is trained by Antonio Garcia. He won his lone start June 10 at odds of 63-1 with earnings of $36,600. ...

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