Review Category : Uncategorized

Stealthespotlight Steps Up to Lassie Stakes

ALTOONA, Iowa (June 30, 2023) – Stealthespotlight is the lone California-bred entered in Friday’s $100,000 Prairie Gold Lassie Stakes for 2-year-old fillies at Prairie Meadows. Stealthespotlight is by Cat Burglar, out of the Tribal Rule mare Star of Munster, was bred by Richard Barton Enterprises, is owned by James Williams, Tyler Bowen, Rick Gallegos, Eric Rossman, Curt Stark and Chris Anderson and is trained by Matt Williams. She won her lone start Apr. 29 at Santa Anita with earnings of $36,000. ...

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Great Lady M. Next for Rose Maddox

By DRF.com CYPRESS, Calif. (June 27, 2023) —California-bred Rose Maddox finished seventh in a field of eight in the Soviet Problem Stakes in her first career start at Los Alamitos in December 2021. So much has changed for Rose Maddox in the last 18 months. A two-time stakes winner earlier this year, Rose Maddox is expected to return to Los Alamitos for the Grade 2 Great Lady M. Stakes for fillies and mares at seven furlongs on July 4. She rates as an outsider to follow in what should be a solid field. Fun to Dream, Cal-bred winner of the Grade 2 Santa Monica Stakes at Santa Anita in February, and Dance to the Music, winner of the Grade 3 Desert Stormer Stakes at Santa Anita in March, are two leading contenders. Rose Maddox, trained by Steve Miyadi for owner and breeder Nick Alexander, has won two stakes at Golden Gate Fields this year – the Moscow Burning Stakes for statebred fillies and mares at a mile in January and... ...

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Free Press Stakes Lures Smiling Tiger Pair

WINNIPEG, Manitoba (June 25, 2023) – Multiple stakes winner Tiger Dad and fellow California-bred Magic Tiger are entered in Wednesday’s $50,000 Free Press Stakes at Assiniboia Downs. Tiger Dad is by Smiling Tiger, 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 seven wins in 38 starts, earnings of $490,054 and is coming off a fourth in the June 9 Ed Skinner. 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 & Bill Meikle and trained by Wendy Anderson. He has nine wins in 25 starts, earnings of $103,626 and is coming off back-to-back optional claiming wins. ...

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Cal-bred Big Stretch Enters La Verendrye

WINNIPEG, Manitoba (June 25, 2023) — Big Stretch is the lone California-bred entered in Tuesday’s $50,000 La Verendrye 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 27 starts, earnings of $140,765 and is coming off a second in a June 13 optional claimer. She was fifth in this race last year. ...

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CHRB Meeting Advisory

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (June 23, 2023) — The California Horse Racing Board will conduct an in-person meeting on Thursday, June 29, 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 #13, 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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Fun to Dream Nominated to Great Lady M.

From Los Alamitos Publicity CYPRESS, Calif. (June 23, 2023) — A trio of multiple stakes-winning California-breds, including Grade I winner Fun to Dream, are among the 17 fillies and mares nominated to the $200,000-guaranteed Great Lady M. Stakes. A Grade II at 6 ½ furlongs, the Great Lady M. will be run for the 10th time at Los Alamitos Tuesday, July 4. The other Cal-breds nominated are Rose Maddox and Chismosa. Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert, who has won the Great Lady M. four times – Fantastic Style (2015), Marley’s Freedom (2018-19) and Gamine (2021) – has four nominees, including Fun to Dream. A 4-year-old daughter of Munnings owned by Baoma Corporation, Eda has won six of eight, including the Grade I Starlet here in 2021 and the 2022 Santa Ysabel. Owned and bred by Baffert, his wife Jill and Connie Pageler, Fun to Dream, a 4-year-old gray daughter of Arrogate, is also 6-for-8 with graded wins coming in the Grade I La Brea last Dec. 26 and Grade II... ...

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Desmond Doss Eyes Bertrando Three-peat

From Los Alamitos Publicity CYPRESS, Calif. (June 21, 2023) – Two-time defending champion Desmond Doss will have five opponents in the $100,000-guaranteed Bertrando Stakes for Golden State Series eligibles Saturday at Los Alamitos. A one-mile event for 3-year-olds & up bred or sired in California, the Bertrando is the last of nine races.   Post time is 1 p.m. Scheduled post time for the Bertrando is 5:05 p.m. Owned by breeder Nick Alexander and trained by Steve Miyadi, Desmond Doss, a 7-year-old son of Grazen and the Malek mare Malley Girl, won the 2021 Bertrando by a half-length as the 8-5 favorite, then repeated last year, scoring by three-quarters of a length as the 1-2 choice. If successful Saturday, Desmond Doss, who has won seven of 23 and banked $454,911, will become the first three time winner of the Bertrando. Soi Phet also won the race twice, taking the inaugural running in 2014 and again in 2018 as a 10-year-old. Alexander and Miyadi will also be represented by Lovesick Blues. A... ...

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Tam’s Little Angel Looks for a Repeat

PLEASANTON, Calif. (June 21, 2023) – Defending champion Tam’s Little Angel and fellow California-breds Twilight Empire and Smoothlikebuttah are entered in Saturday’s $75,000 She’s a Tiger Stakes for fillies and mares at the Alameda County Fair. 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 trained by Steve Knapp. She has three wins in 40 starts, earnings of $408,012 and is coming off a fourth in the June 10 Santa Margarita. Twilight Empire is by Empire Way, out of the Bernstein mare Rugula, was bred by Terry Lovingier, is owned by G C C I and trained by Clifford DeLima. She has four wins in 12 starts, earnings of $108,290 and is coming off a fourth in a June 2 allowance. 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... ...

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Self Isolation Enters Goldwood Stakes

OCEANPORT, N.J. (June 21, 2023) – Self Isolation is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Goldwood 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 back-to-back wins. ...

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Los Alamitos L.A. Fair Season Opens Friday

From Los Alamitos Publicity CYPRESS, Calif. (June 20, 2023) — The first of three daytime thoroughbred meets this year at Los Alamitos will begin Friday, June 23. The nine-day Los Angeles County Fair season will continue through Sunday, July 9. Racing will be conducted Friday-Sunday (June 23-25) the first week, Saturday-Tuesday (July 1-4) the second week and Saturday-Sunday (July 8-9) closing weekend. Post time is 1 p.m. The highlight of the meet will be the $200,000-guaranteed Great Lady M. Stakes at 6 ½ furlongs.  The Grade II for fillies and mares (3-year-olds & up) will be run Tuesday, July 4. The other two stakes to be run are the $100,000-guaranteed Bertrando for 3-year-olds & up bred or sired in California and the $125,000-guaranteed Los Alamitos Derby. The one-mile Bertrando is the main event Saturday, June 24 while the Los Alamitos Derby, which is contested at 1 1/8 miles, will be run Saturday, July 8. The wagering menu includes the $2 Pick Six – with the traditional 70-30 split – a... ...

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Budweiser on Tap for A Man’s Man

AUBURN, Wash. (June 22, 2023) – Bull Dog Stakes winner A Man’s Man and fellow California-breds Bridleuptothebar, Smiling Goodbye and Prayer of Jabez are entered in Sunday’s $50,000 Budweiser Stakes at Emerald Downs. Bridleuptothebar is by Fullbridled, out of the Thisnearlywasmine mare Nearlycocktailtime, was bred by Mark & Holly Rydman, is owned by Holly Rydman and trained by Niccolo Trojani. He has four wins in eight starts, earnings of $63,689 and is coming off a second in a May 28 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 13 starts, earnings of $86,630 and is coming off a May 28 optional claiming win. Prayer of Jabez is by Stanford, out of the Kafwain mare Alwazabridesmaid, was bred by Tommy Town Thoroughbreds, is owned by Anthony DeMarco and trained by Edward Kereluk. He has four wins in 17 starts, earnings of $112,422 and... ...

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Daffodil Sweet Seeks Another Stakes Win

AUBURN, Wash. (June 22, 2023) – Multiple stakes winner Daffodil Sweet and fellow California-bred Cause She’s a Lady are entered in Sunday’s $50,000 Hastings 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 nine wins in 17 starts, earnings of $183,171 and is making her first start since finishing third in this race a year ago. She also was seventh in this race in 2021. Cause She’s a Lady is by Creative Cause, out of the Warrior’s Reward mare Warriorcmoutoplay, was bred by Thomas Bachman, is owned by Quest Racing and trained by Blaine Wright. She has three wins in 10 starts, earnings of $77,610 and is coming off a second in a May 27 optional claimer. ...

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10th Thoroughbred Season at Los Alamitos

From Los Alamitos Publicity CYPRESS, Calif. – Since daytime thoroughbred racing returned to Los Alamitos in the summer of 2014, the Orange County track has been the place where the stars have come to play. Months before favored I’m No Patsy won the first race of the inaugural Summer Thoroughbred Festival on July 3, 2014, Los Alamitos was already playing host to an eventual champion and one of the most popular horses ever to compete in California. After Hollywood Park ran its final race on December 22, 2013, California Chrome, who had completed his 2-year-old season by winning the King Glorious – the final stakes race ever run at Hollywood Park – he was moved to Los Alamitos. Owned by Steve Coburn and Perry Martin and trained by Art Sherman, the son of Lucky Pulpit and the Not for Love mare Love the Chase spent the rest of his brilliant career based at Los Alamitos. His works over the track were much anticipated and well attended and Sherman was always... ...

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Secret Fix Enters Thistledown’s Lady Jacqueline

NORTH RANDALL, Ohio (June 19, 2023) – Secret Fix is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $250,000 Lady Jacqueline Stakes for fillies and mares at Thistledown. Secret Fix is by Secret Circle, out of the Haynesfield mare Solid Solution, was bred by Ruis Racing, is owned by Gene Burkholder and trained by Kim Puhl. She has four wins in 14 starts, earnings of $118,173 and is coming off a win in a May 22 allowance. ...

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Clovisconnection Ships for Auburn Stakes

AUBURN, Wash. (June 15, 2023) – Stakes winner Clovisconnection and fellow California-bred Royal Halo are entered in Sunday’s $50,000 Auburn Stakes for 3-year-old colts and geldings at Emerald Downs. Clovisconnection is by Vronsky, out of the Perfect Mandate mare La Darling, was bred by owners William and Judy Hedrick and is trained by Blaine Wright. He has three wins in six starts, earnings of $106,380 and is coming off a second in the Apr. 30 Silky Sullivan. Royal Halo is by Curlin to Mischief, out of the Good Reward mare Sunpenny, was bred by Z Thoroughbred Racing, is owned by Steven Zerda and trained by Frank Lucarelli. He has two wins in seven starts, earnings of $80,460 and is coming off a May 27 allowance win. ...

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Get My Point Entered in Seattle Stakes

AUBURN, Wash. (June 15, 2023) – Get My Point is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $50,000 Seattle Stakes for 3-year-old fillies at Emerald Downs. Get My Point is by Stanford, out of the Indian Charlie mare Didugetmypoint, was bred by owner Tommy Town Thoroughbreds and is trained by Jorge Rosales. She has one win in nine starts, earnings of $25,110 and is coming off a sixth in the Apr. 30 Campanile Stakes. ...

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Fair Circuit Opens Friday in Pleasanton

By DRF.com PLEASANTON, Calif. (June 15, 2023) — The five-stop Northern California fair circuit begins Friday with a four-week meeting at the Alameda County Fair in Pleasanton, highlighted by a newly created $150,000 stakes for older horses. The Pleasanton meeting runs through July 9 and is followed by race meetings at Cal-Expo in Sacramento later in July, the Sonoma County Fair at Santa Rosa in early August, the Humboldt County Fair in Ferndale in the far north in late August, and the Big Fresno Fair in October. The Pleasanton season covers 13 days of racing, primarily on a Friday-through-Sunday schedule with an additional racing day on Tuesday, July 4. The $150,000 Pleasanton Mile, run at a mile and 70 yards, will be held for the first time on July 9 as part of a program that includes the $75,000 Everett Nevin Stakes for 2-year-olds at 5 1/2 furlongs. The Pleasanton Mile is likely to draw runners from the throughout the state. I’mgonnabesomebody, winner of the $100,900 All American Stakes on May... ...

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Going Mobile, Refocus in F-T Futurity

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 14, 2023) – Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Going Mobile and fellow first-out Cal-bred winner Refocus are entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Fasig-Tipton Futurity for 2-year-olds at Santa Anita. 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 won his May 21 debut by 4 ½ lengths. Going Mobile is by Stay Thirsty, out of the War Front mare Mobilize, was bred by Terry Lovingier and is owned by Lovingier, Thomas Halaz and trainer Steve Knapp. The $20,000 purchase at the Northern California Yearling Sale won his Apr. 30 debut by 4 ½ lengths. ...

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Crazy Hot, Grand Slam Smile in Debutante

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 14, 2023) – California-bred first-out winners Crazy Hot and Grand Slam Smile are entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Fasig-Tipton Debutante for 2-year-old fillies at Santa Anita. Crazy Hot is by Goldencents, out of the Rockport Harbor mare Harbor Mist, was bred by Tom Bachman, is owned by Rusty Brown and Cory Thabit and trained by Jeff Bonde. She won her May 20 debut by 10 ½ lengths. 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 Steve Specht. She won her May 14 debut by four lengths. ...

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One in Vermillion to Turf in Canterbury Derby

By DRF.com SHAKOPEE, Minn. (June 13, 2023) – California-bred One in Vermillion will be looking for the fifth stakes win of his young career Wednesday night, when he makes his turf debut in the $100,000 Canterbury Derby for 3-year-olds as part of the Northern Stars Turf Festival at Canterbury Park. The one-mile race is one of six stakes on the card. The races are worth a total of $450,000. Canterbury has some special wagers tied to the night’s five turf stakes. They will be grouped in a pick five that has a 50-cent minimum and a reduced takeout of 10 percent. The sequence is races 2, 4, 6, 7, and 8. There also is an all-turf pick three on races 4, 6, and 8. The $1 minimum bet has a reduced takeout of 14 percent. The Canterbury Derby, which is part of both sequences, drew six, including supplemental entries We Storm and the stakes-placed Worthington. One in Vermillion enters off back-to-back wins, having won the Lazaro Barrera in May at Santa... ...

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Minister of Soul Enters Dark Star Turf

SHAKOPEE, Minn. (June 13, 2023) – Minister of Soul, one of the winningest graduates of the Northern California Yearling Sale, is the lone California-bred entered in Wednesday’s $75,000 Dark Star Turf Sprint at Canterbury Park. Minister of Soul is a 9-year-old by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Bernstein mare Sensitive Soul, was bred by Dahlberg Farm and is owned by trainer Esteban Martinez. The $16,000 purchase at the Northern California Yearling Sale has 17 wins in 55 starts, earnings of $529,322 and is coming off a June 3 optional claiming win. He was sixth in this race in 2021. ...

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Don’t Get Pickled Enters Sampson Oaks

SHAKOPEE, Minn. (June 13, 2023) – Stakes winner Don’t Get Pickled is the lone California-bred entered in Wednesday’s $75,000 Curtis Sampson Oaks for 3-year-old fillies at Canterbury Park. Don’t Get Pickled is by Misremembered, out of the Successful Appeal mare C C’s Pride, was bred by harry & Cheryl Keshian, is owned by Stable H. M. A. and trained by Kevin Eikleberry. She has two wins in 11 starts, earnings of $109,088 and is coming off a fourth in the June 10 Panthers Stakes at Prairie Meadows. ...

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Bertrando Stakes June 24 at Los Alamitos

From Los Alamitos Publicity CYPRESS, Calif. (June 12, 2023) – Three stakes worth a combined $425,000 highlight the 2023 Los Angeles County Fair meet at Los Alamitos. The nine-day season will begin Friday, June 23 and continue through Sunday, July 9. Racing will be conducted Friday-Sunday the first week (June 23-25), Saturday-Tuesday (July 1-4) the middle week and Saturday-Sunday (July 8-9). the final weekend. Post time will be 1 p.m. The initial stakes of the season is the $100,000 Bertrando for 3-year-olds & up bred or sired in California. The one-mile race will be run Saturday, June 24. The richest of the stakes races is the Grade II, $200,000-guaranteed Great Lady M. Stakes. The race at 6 ½ furlongs for fillies and mares – 3-year-olds & up – will be offered Tuesday, July 4. The other stakes event is the $125,000 Los Alamitos Derby for 3-year-olds at 1 1/8 miles. The Derby will be run Saturday, July 8. Grandstand admission is $3 and $2 for seniors 62 and older. Admission... ...

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NorCal Grad Chancery Way at Golden Gate

ALBANY, Calif. (June 8, 2023) – Stakes-winning Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Chancery Way and comebacking stakes winner Sadie Bluegrass are entered in Sunday’s $75,000 Dream of Summer Stakes for Golden State Series eligible fillies and mares at Golden Gate. 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 trained by Jamey Thomas. The $6,500 purchase at the Northern California Yearling Sale has four wins in seven starts, earnings of $141,779 and is coming off a second in the Apr. 29 Camilla Urso Stakes. Stakes winner Sassy Nature is by Straight Fire, out of the After Market mare Renee’s Queen, was bred by Straight Fire, LLC, is owned by CTR Stable and trained by Luis Mendez. She has three wins in seven starts, earnings of $158,990 and is coming off an eighth in the May 3 Mamzelle Overnight Stakes. Tamantari is by Tamarando, out of the Decarchy... ...

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NoCal Sale Grad Yo Yo Candy in Tremont

ELMONT, N.Y. (June 8, 2023) – Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Yo Yo Candy and fellow California-bred Ship Cadet are entered in Sunday’s $150,000 Tremont Stakes for 2-year-olds at Belmont Park. Yo Yo Candy is by Danzing Candy, out of the Two Punch mare Yolanda B Too, was bred by Checkmate Thoroughbreds, is owned by Happy Tenth Stable and trained by Daniel Velasquez. The $6,000 purchase at the Northern California Yearling Sale won his debut May 23 at Parx and has earnings of $27,000. 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 won his debut May 12 at Belmont and has earnings of $49,500. ...

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Smoothlikebuttah Enters Santa Margarita

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 7, 2023) – Smoothlikebuttah is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $200,000 Grade II Santa Margarita Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita. 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 Tesser and is trained by Steve Knapp. She has three wins in 39 starts, earnings of $396,012 and is coming off a fourth in the Apr. 29 Santa Maria Stakes.   ...

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Top Harbor, Psycho Dar in Albany Stakes

ALBANY, Calif. (June 7, 2023) – Stakes winners Top Harbor and Psycho Dar, and fellow California-breds Evenerevenworse and Larry’s Legend, are entered in Saturday’s $50,000 Albany Stakes at Golden Gate. Top Harbor is by Harbor the Gold, out of the He’s Top mare Reba Is Tops, was bred by owners  Eric Schweiger, Gordy Jarnig & Kenny Marshall and is trained by Tim McKenna. He has seven wins in 16 starts, earnings of $327,114 and is coming off a win in the Apr. 29 Lost in the Fog Stakes. Evenerevenworse is by Decarchy, out of the Rahy mare Rahbadabadou, was bred by Pat Maciariello, is owned by TKO Stables, Frank Ables and Fred Desimore and is trained by Bill McLean. He has seven wins in 28 starts, earnings of $108,500 and is coming off a second in a May 13 optional claimer. Larry’s Legend is by Creative Cause, out of the Speightstown mare Laugh N Yodel, was bred by Heinz Steinmann, is owned by Huntertown Farm and trained by Samuel Calvario.... ...

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Slow Down Andy Returns in Metropolitan

ELMONT, N.Y. (June 6, 2023) – Multiple graded stakes winner Slow Down Andy is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $1 million Hill ‘N’ Dale Metropolitan Handicap at Belmont Park. 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 10 starts, earnings of $909,100 and is making his first start since a third in the Nov. 5, Big Ass Fans Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile. The Metropolitan is a “Win and You’re In” for the Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile. ...

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Tiger Dad Targets Ed Skinner Stakes

ALTOONA, Ia. (June 2, 2023) – Multiple stakes winner Tiger Dad is the lone California-bred entered in Friday’s $50,000 Ed Skinner Stakes at Prairie Meadows. Tiger Dad is by Smiling Tiger, out of the Unusual Heat mare Q T Shea, was bred by Mark Devereaux, Scott Gross & Mark Gross, is owned by Rosette Ranch and is trained by Robertino Diodoro. He has seven wins in 37 starts, earnings of $486,929 and is coming off a fourth in a May 6 optional claimer. ...

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Don’t Get Pickled Visits Prairie Meadows

ALTOONA, Ia. (June 3, 2023) – Stakes winner Don’t Get Pickled is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $50,000 Panthers Stakes for 3-year-old fillies at Prairie Meadows. Don’t Get Pickled is by Misremembered, out of the Successful Appeal mare C C’s Pride, was bred by Harry & Cheryl Keshian, is owned by Stable H. M. A. and is trained by Kevin Eikleberry. She has two wins in 10 starts, earnings of $105,588 and is coming off a third in the May 14 Goldfinch Stakes. ...

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Slow Down Andy Preps for Met Handicap

By DRF.com ARCADIA, Calif. (May 29, 2023) — California-bred Slow Down Andy, a three-time graded stakes winner who was third in the Grade 1 Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile at Keeneland last November in his last start, is nearing his 2023 debut in an equally prestigious race. Trainer Doug O’Neill said on Monday that Slow Down Andy is on schedule for a start in the Grade 1 Metropolitan Mile Handicap, a $1 million race at Belmont Park on June 10. :: Get Santa Anita Clocker Reports straight from the morning workouts at the track. Available every race day.  On Sunday at Santa Anita, Slow Down Andy worked six furlongs in 1:12.40 under jockey Mario Gutierrez. Owned by Paul and Zillah Reddam, Slow Down Andy has had a series of quick workouts through May. Slow Down Andy has won 4 of 10 starts and earned $909,100. He won the Grade 2 Los Alamitos Futurity in 2021 and the Grade 2 Del Mar Derby on turf last September. ...

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Closing Remarks Opts for Grade I Gamely

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 26, 2023) – Graded winner Closing Remarks scratched out of Sunday’s $100,000 Fran’s Valentine Stakes for Golden State Series eligibles to run in Monday’s $400,000 Grade I Gamely Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita. 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 19 starts, earnings of $560,820 and is coming off a fourth in the Apr. 30 Wilshire Stakes. Her last seven races have come in graded stakes, with a win in the Grade II Royal Heroine. ...

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Brickyard Ride v. The Chosen Vron Showdown

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (May 25, 2023) – Multiple graded stakes winners Brickyard Ride and The Chosen Vron, two of the best California-breds in training, meet for the first time in Sunday’s $100,000 Thor’s Echo Stakes for Golden State Series eligibles at Santa Anita. 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 25 starts, earnings of $816,977 and is coming off a win in the Apr. 22 Kona Gold. He won this race in 2021. None Above the Law scratched to run in the Crystal Water. Tigre Di Slugo is by Smiling Tiger, out of the Williamstown mare Erica’s Smile, was bred by Premier Thoroughbreds, is owned by Slugo Racing, Tiger Racing and trainer Mike Puype. He has three wins in 15 starts, earnings of $270,476 and is coming off a second in an Apr. 7 optional claimer. He was third in this race last... ...

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Crystal Water Now a Scramble

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 25, 2023) – With last year’s champion Cal-bred older male, The Chosen Vron, running in the Thor’s Echo, Sunday’s $100,000 Crystal Water Stakes for Golden State Series eligibles at Santa Anita still figures to be a battle, with defending champ Carmelita’s Man and Grade II winner None Above the Law still in the lineup. Kings River Knight is by Acclamation, out of the Poteen mare Seasontoperfection, was bred by Old English Rancho, is owned by Integrity Thoroughbred Racing, The Ellwood Johnston Trust and Kenneth Tevelde and is trained by John Sadler. He has three wins in eight starts, earnings of $176,260 and is coming off a second in the Mar. 19 Sensational Star. Coalinga Road is by Quality Road, out of the Johannesburg mare Coco Ecolo, was bred by owner Harris Farms and is trained by Carla Gaines. He has four wins in 21 starts, earnings of $396,234 and is coming off a fourth in a May 7 allowance. None Above the Law is by Karakontie, out... ...

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Melair Next for Unbeaten NorCal Sale Grad

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, CA (May 25, 2023)—A filly that appears headed to stardom, Doug O’Neill’s undefeated Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Ceiling Crusher seeks her fourth consecutive win as she stretches out for the first time and heads a field of five sophomore fillies going a mile and one sixteenth in Sunday’s $150,000 Melair Stakes at Santa Anita.                 Named for John Sadler’s unbeaten daughter of Debonaire Roger who defeated an outstanding group of males, including Snow Chief in her final start, the Grade II Silver Screen Handicap at Hollywood Park on July 5, 1986, the Melair is part of the lucrative CTBA-sponsored Golden State Series for eligible California-bred or sired horses.                 Off at 1-5 going 6 ½  furlongs in the statebred Evening Jewel Stakes here on April 8, Ceiling Crusher, an attentive second after the first quarter mile, surged to a sensational 15 ½ length score while earning a lofty 94 Beyer Speed Figure under Juan Hernandez, who rides back on Sunday.                 By Mr. Big out of... ...

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Lightly Raced Old Pal in Snow Chief

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, CA (May 25, 2023)—Lightly raced but well at home on turf, Mark Glatt’s Old Pal appears a solid fit in his first stakes assignment as a field of seven sophomores try a mile and one eighth over the Santa Anita lawn in the $150,000 Snow Chief Stakes presented by City National Bank on Sunday.                 Named for one of the greatest California-breds of all-time and a winner of both the 1986 Santa Anita Derby and Preakness Stakes, the Snow Chief is part of the lucrative CTBA-sponsored Golden State Series for eligible California-bred or sired horses.                 Snow Chief, who was crowned Eclipse Champion 3-year-old colt for 1986 and who banked more than $3.3 million, was trained by the late Melvin F. Stute and Santa Anita is honored to have his widow Annabelle Stute present Sunday’s trophy.                 In a race in which nobody has been beyond a flat mile on dirt or turf, Old Pal, a dazzling 3 ½ length one mile turf winner two starts back... ...

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Big Switch Favored in Fran’s Valentine

From Santa Anita Publicity  ARCADIA, CA (May 25, 2023)—John Sadler’s Big Switch takes a notable drop in class as she heads a field of seven California-bred or sired fillies and mares going one mile on turf in Sunday’s $100,000 Fran’s Valentine Stakes at Santa Anita.                 Owned and bred in California by George Krikorian, Big Switch, most recently third, beaten six lengths by multiple graded stakes winner Adare Manor going a mile and one sixteenth on dirt in Santa Anita’s Grade II Santa Maria Stakes April 29, has a win, two seconds and a third place finish, all on dirt, from four starts this year in open company.                 A close second to Adare Manor in a one mile allowance here on March 31, she’ll be reunited with Juan Hernandez, who was up for her most recent win, three races back on Feb. 18.                 A 4-year-old daughter of Mr. Big out of the Malibu Moon mare Two Faced Moon, Big Switch is a two-time statebred stakes winner who is 9-4-2-1 overall,... ...

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American Farmer, Royal ‘n Rando Meet

ALBANY, Calif. (May 27, 2023) — California-bred stakes winners American Farmer and Royal ‘n Rando are entered in Monday’s $100,000 All American Stakes at Golden Gate. American Farmer is by Blugrass Cat, out of the Quiet American mare Farmers Wife and is owned by breeder BKB Stables and trainer Steve Sherman. He has six wins in 35 starts, earnings of $318,390 and is coming off a win in the Mar. 18 McCann’s Mojave. He was fifth in this race last year. Royal ‘n Rando is by Tamarando, out of the Grand Slam mare Royal Grand Slam, was bred by owners Mr. and Mrs. Larry Williams and is trained by Steve Specht. He has six wins in 18 starts, earnings of $201,644 and is coming off a sixth in the Jan. 30 Unusual Heat Turf Classic. ...

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Desmond Doss, Positivity in Triple Bend

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 24, 2023) – California-bred stakes winners Desmond Doss and Positivity are entered in Saturday’s $200,000 Grade II Triple Bend Stakes at Santa Anita. Desmond Doss is by Grazen, out of the Malek mare Malley Girl, was bred by owner Nick Alexander and is trained by Steven Miyadi. He has seven wins in 22 starts, earnings of $430,911 and is coming off a fourth in a May 7 optional claimer. Positivity is by Paynter, out of the City Zip mare Sam’s Sunny City, was bred by Allen Farm, is owned by CTR Stables and Omar Aldabbagh and trained by Doug O’Neill. He has four wins in 17 starts, earnings of $288,792 and is coming off a third in the Apr. 22 Kona Gold. ...

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Cal-bred Quartet Revs Up for Daytona

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 24, 2023) – Multiple stakes winner Indian Peak and fellow California-breds Lovesick Blues, Fast Buck and Burnin Turf are entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Grade III Daytona Stakes at Santa Anita. Indian Peak is by Comic Strip, out of the Roar mare Ms. Roar, was bred by Dr. & Mrs. William Gray, is owned by Wachtel Stable and Gary Barber and trained by Peter Miller. He has six wins in 30 starts, earnings of $455,122 and is coming off a third in the Apr. 23 Siren Lure. Lovesick Blues is by Grazen, out of the Ministers Wild Cat mare Queenofhercastle, was bred by owner Nick Alexander and is trained by Steven Miyadi. He has seven wins in 22 starts, earnings of $281,462 and is coming off back-to-back wins. Fast Buck is by Gallant Son, out of the Falstaff mare Zorra Roja, was bred by Daehling Ranch, is owned by Zephyr Racing, Peter Cruz and trainer Cesar DeAlba. He has four wins in eight starts, earnings of $215,474 and... ...

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Passarando, Cousin Richie Enter Alcatraz

ALBANY, Calif. (May 25, 2023) – Stakes winner Passarando and fellow California-bred Cousin Richie are entered in Sunday’s $75,000 Alcatraz Stakes at Golden Gate. Passarando is by Tamarando, out of the Lucky Pulpit mare I’m Passing Ya Now, was bred by owners Mr. & Mrs. Larry Williams and is trained by Steven Specht. He has four wins in 10 starts, earnings of $248,830 and is coming off a fifth in the Apr. 29 California Derby. 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 two wins in five starts, earnings of $36,900 and is coming off a third in the Apr. 30 Silky Sullivan. ...

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McCarthy Unveils Another Repole Cal-bred

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (May 19, 2023) — High-profile owner Mike Repole is a born and raised New Yorker whose vast racing stable typically competes on the eastern and Midwest circuits. But in recent years, the founder of VitaminWater has increasingly dabbled with California-breds.             Repole’s California presence will be on full display Saturday with first-time starter Pushiness, a 2-year-old filly by Kantharos who debuts in the opener for trainer Michael McCarthy. Repole purchased Pushiness for $115,000 at last year’s Fasig-Tipton California Fall Yearlings and Horses of All Ages Sale.             McCarthy’s relationship with Repole dates to McCarthy’s time serving as an assistant for Hall of Famer Todd Pletcher, who is Repole’s main trainer in New York. Repole and Pletcher had the morning-line favorite for this year’s Kentucky Derby, Forte, but that colt was scratched the morning of the race.             McCarthy says he currently has a “handful” of California-bred 2-year-olds owned by Repole and more are expected in the coming days.             “He likes the statebred program... ...

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Big Summer has Big Shot in Mizdirection

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (May 17, 2023) – Dirt or turf, short or long, Big Summer seems to always run her race.             On Saturday, trainer Carla Gaines hopes another of Big Summer’s typical performances will result in the mare’s first stakes win against open company in the Mizdirection Stakes on the hillside turf course. She is the slight 7-2 favorite on the morning line to do just that.             “She’s just as consistent as they come, this mare. And she’s doing great,” Gaines said Friday morning.             Bred in California by Bob Abrams and Mitchell Dutko, Big Summer is owned by her breeders along with Michael Paran.  With an overall race record of 13-4-7-2, she has earnings of $355,160.             Big Summer has never missed the board in 13 career starts. Her record includes four wins, seven runner-up finishes and two thirds. She will face several familiar foes in the Mizdirection. After winning the Sunshine Millions Filly & Mare Turf Sprint on... ...

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Nominations for Gold Rush Close Thursday

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 17, 2023) — Nominations for the May 28 Gold Rush card at Santa Anita, races exclusively for California-bred and -sired horses worth nearly $1 million, close this Thursday, May 18. Included on the card are five stakes: The $150,000 Snow Chief Stakes for 3-year-olds at 1 1/18 miles on the turf; the $150,000 Melair Stakes for 3-year-old fillies at 1 1/16 miles on dirt; the $100,000 Thor’s Echo Stakes for 3-year-olds and up at six furlongs on dirt; the $100,000 Crystal Water Stakes for 3-year-olds and up at one mile on turf and the $100,000 Fran’s Valentine Stakes for fillies and mares 3-years-old and up at one mile on turf. Also scheduled to be run are two maiden special weight races and two allowance optional claimers. ...

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CTBA January Sale Grad Enters Golden Circle

ALTOONA, Iowa (May 15, 2023) – California Thoroughbred Breeders Association January Sale graduate Kyandi is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $50,000 Golden Circle Stakes for 3-year-olds at Prairie Meadows. Kyandi is by Danzing Candy, out of the Bertrando mare Surf Dancer, was bred by Liberty Road Stables, is owned by Jordan Racing and trained by Todd Jordan. The $9,000 purchase at the CTBA January Sale has one win in three starts, earnings of $24,943 and is coming off an Apr. 29 maiden win. ...

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Ready for a Fight Ready for Jacques Cartier

TORONTO, Ontario (May 11, 2023) – Ready for a Fight is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $150,000 Grade III Jacques Cartier Stakes at Woodbine. Ready for a Fight is by Boisterous, out of the Giant’s Causeway mare Irish Tart, was bred by Gary Barber, is owned by Paul Braverman and Timothy Pinch and is trained by John Charalambous. The 6-year-old gelding has seven wins in 18 starts, earnings of $223,405 and is coming off an Apr. 23 optional claiming win. ...

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Don’t Get Pickled Enters Goldfinch Stakes

ALTOONA, Iowa (May 10, 2023) — California-bred stakes winner Don’t Get Pickled is entered in Saturday’s $50,000 Goldfinch Stakes for 3-year-old fillies at Prairie Meadows. Don’t Get Pickled is by Misremembered, out of the Successful Appeal mare C C’s Pride, was bred by Harry Keshian & Cheryl Keshian, is owned by Stable H. M. A. and trained by Kevin Eikleberry. She has two wins in nine starts, earnings of $101,588 and is coming off a sixth in the Apr. 8 Santa Anita Oaks. ...

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Chismosa, Tom’s Regret Enter Senorita

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 3, 2023) – Unbeaten Chismosa and fellow California-bred stakes winner Tom’s Regret are entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Senorita Stakes for 3-year-old fillies at Santa Anita. 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 won all three starts with earnings of $190,500 and is making her first start since winning the Sept. 5 Generous Portion. Tom’s Regret is by Tom’s Tribute, out of the Quality Road mare Pure, was bred by DP Racing, is owned by Cinema Thoroughbreds, Beckerle, Michelle K., Carrillo, Saul, Flores, Victor M., Johnson, Burton and Zondlo, Eugene and trained by Steven Miyadi. She has two wins in five starts, earnings of $196,253 and is coming off a second in the Apr. 8 Evening Jewel. ...

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One in Vermillion One of Four in Barrera

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 3, 2023) – Multiple stakes winner One in Vermillion is the lone California-bred in a field of four entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Laz Barrera Stakes for 3-year-olds at Santa Anita. 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 J. Eric Kruljac. He has three wins in six starts, earnings of $182,440 and is coming off a fifth in the Apr. 8 Runhappy Santa Anita Derby. ...

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EquiRing to Host May Mixed Sale

From EquiRing.com Press Release LEXINGTON, Ky. (May 1, 2023) – EquiRing.com has posted its May 2 sale consignment online for preview. This sale features eight entries highlighted by Cashing Tickets by Indian Charlie in foal to Into Mischief on a 3/2/23 last cover date. Cashing Tickets is the dam of G2 winning and Graded Stakes-placed Leggs Galore, who is herself also bred to Into Mischief for the 2023 breeding season. Cashing Tickets is only one of two mares offered in foal to Into Mischief in all of 2022 and 2023 at public auction. Also catalogued is Magically Honored in foal on an early cover to first year California stallion Eight Rings, and her 2023 Blame filly by side. The boutique auction is consigned by Checkmate Thoroughbreds and available online for preview and registration. Bidding will start at 3 pm EDT on May 2, with the first hip closing at 6 pm EDT. To preview the catalog, click May Mixed Sale (equiring.com) ...

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Kangaroo Court on Docket for Pat Day Mile

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (May 1, 2023) – Stakes winner Kangaroo Court is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $500,000 Grade II Pat Day Mile Stakes presented by TwinSpires for 3-year-olds at Churchill Downs. Kangaroo Court is by Dads Caps, out of the Hard Spun mare Bonus Spin was bred by Richard Barton Enterprises, is owned by George Sharp and trained by Tim Yakteen. He has three wins in four starts, earnings of $197,200 and is coming off a win in the Apr. 8 Echo Eddie. ...

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Lil Anthony Debuts in Churchill Downs Stake

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (May 1, 2023) – Lil Anthony is the lone California-bred entered in Thursday’s $250,000 Kentucky Juvenile Stakes for 2-year-olds at Churchill Downs. Lil Anthony is by Anthony’s Cross, out of the Mining for Money mare Lil Nugget, was bred by David Chase, is owned by William Branch and trained by Luis Mendez. Lil Anthony is also entered in a maiden special weight race at Churchill Downs on Tuesday. Either would be his racing debut. ...

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Sassy Nature Targets Churchill Downs Stake

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (May 1, 2023) – Stakes winner Sassy Nature is the lone California-bred entered in Wednesday’s $225,000 Mamzelle Overnight Stakes for 3-year-old fillies at Churchill Downs. 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 six starts, earnings of $156,990 and is coming off a fifth in the Apr. 14 FanDuel Limestone Stakes. ...

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Hasta La Vista for Stakes Winner Luv Luv

PHOENIX, Ariz. (May 1, 2023) – Stakes winner Luv Luv and fellow California-bred Falsely Accused are entered in Saturday’s $60,000 Hasta La Vista Stakes at Turf Paradise. Luv Luv is by Lakerville, out of the Fasliyev mare Lucera, was bred by Michael Neumann & Francoise Dupuis and is owned by trainer Adam Kitchingman. He has four wins in 27 starts, earnings of $269,750 and is coming off a win in the Apr. 15 Wildcat Stakes. Falsely Accused is by Strong Mandate, out of the Maria’s Mon mare Princess Hillary, was bred by Dale Mahlum, is owned by Chris Randall & Gary Hughes and is trained by Shane Peacock. He has four wins in 23 starts, earnings of $110,567 and is coming off a sixth in an Apr. 17 optional claimer. ...

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CTBA Sale Grad Enters Turf Paradise Stake

PHOENIX, Ariz. (May 1, 2023) – California Thoroughbred Breeders Association January Sale graduate Perfect Mischief and fellow Cal-breds Sister Cousin and Big Moonie are entered in Saturday’s $60,000 Turf Paradise Open Spring Futurity for 2-year-olds. Sister Cousin is a filly by Sharp Azteca, out of the Tapit mare Cal Gal, was bred by Richard Barto Enterprises, is owned by Chris Nolan and trained by Robertino Diodoro. She is a maiden making her second start with earnings of $3,998. Big Moonie is a gelding by Cat Burglar, out of the Square Eddie mare Moonie, was bred by Richard Barton Enterprises, is owned by Roberto Baeza and trained by Candelario Villamar. He is a maiden making his second start with earnings of $1,000. Perfect Mischief is a filly by Curlin to Mischief, out of the Paynter mare No Prob Lama, was bred by Kaitlyn Raboin & Matthew Raboin and is trained by Vann Belvoir. The $3,500 purchase at the CTBA January Sale is a maiden making her second start with earnings of... ...

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Closing Remarks Cruises onto Wilshire

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 27, 2023) – California-bred Closing Remarks, fresh off her win in the Grade II Royal Heroine Stakes, is entered in Sunday’s $100,000 Grade III Wilshire Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita. 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 18 starts, earnings of $554,820 and is coming off her first graded win. ...

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Clovisconnection Enters Silky Sullivan

ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 27, 2023) – Clovisconnection is the lone stakes winner in a field of 10 entered in Sunday’s $75,000 Silky Sullivan Stakes for Golden State Series-eligible 3-year-olds at Golden Gate. Happy Does is by Southern Image, out of the Comic Strip mare Handfull, was bred by Dr. & Mrs. William Gray, is owned by Gray Farms and trained by Felix Rondan. He has three wins in 10 starts, earnings of $91,348 and is coming off a fifth in a Mar. 31 optional claimer. Clovisconnection is by Vronsky, out of the Perfect Mandate mare La Darling, was bred by owners William and Judy Hedrick and is trained by Blaine Wright. He has three wins in five starts, earnings of $91,380 and is coming off a fifth in the Apr. 8 Echo Eddie. Bob’s Blue Moon is by Richard’s Kid, out of the Good Journey mare Nicolette Charmant, was bred by Rancho San Miguel, is owned by Blue Moon Racing, Steve Dietrich and Thomas Halasz and is trained by Angelo... ...

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Sell the Dream Seeks First Stakes Victory

ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 27, 2023) – Multiple graded-stakes placed Sell the Dream seeks her first black-type victory in Sunday’s $75,000 Campanile Stakes for Golden State Series-eligible 3-year-old fillies. Get My Point is by Stanford, out of the Indian Charlie mare Didugetmypoint, was bred by owner Tommy Town Thoroughbreds and is trained by Jonathan Wong. She has one win in eight starts, earnings of $24,660 and is coming off a maiden claiming win Apr. 22. Proof She Zips is by Idiot Proof, out of the City Zip mare Zipping My Way, was bred by Daniel O’Neill, is owned by Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners and Gary Barber and is trained by Michael McCarthy. She has one win in four starts, earnings of $64,740 and is coming off a second in a Mar. 19 optional claimer. Like No Other is by Stanford, out of the Lemon Drop Kid mare She’s Not a Lemon, was bred by owner Tommy Town Thoroughbreds and is trained by Jonathan Wong. She has one win in four starts, earnings... ...

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Big Switch Eyes Graded Glory in Santa Maria

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 26, 2023) – Multiple stakes winner Big Switch and fellow California-bred Smoothlikebuttah, both daughters of Mr. Big, are entered in Saturday’s $200,000 Grade II Santa Maria Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita. Big Switch is out of the Malibu Moon mare Two Faced Moon, was bred by owner George Krikorian and is trained by John Sadler. She has four wins in eight starts, earnings of $339,924 and is coming off a second in a Mar. 31 optional claimer. Smoothlikebuttah is 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 38 starts, earnings of $384,012 and is coming off a win in a Mar. 13 optional claimer. ...

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Passarando Gunning for California Derby

ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 26, 2023) – Multiple stakes winner Passarando and fellow California-bred Nauvoo are entered in Saturday’s $100,000 California Derby for 3-year-olds at Golden Gate. Passarando is by Tamarando, out of the Lucky Pulpit mare I’m Passing Ya Now, was bred by owners Mr. & Mrs. Larry Williams and is trained by Steven Specht. He has four wins in nine starts, earnings of $246,830 and is coming off a fourth in the Feb. 11 El Camino Real. Nauvoo is by Not This Time, out of the Uncle Mo mare Hallelujah Girl, was bred by Chappell Alpine Farm, is owned by MJVET Stables and Taboada Racing Stables and is trained by Jonathan Wong. He has five wins in 10 starts, earnings of $62,986 and is coming off a Mar. 31 claiming win. ...

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Alice Marble Seeks Consecutive Stakes Wins

ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 26, 2023) – Stakes winner Alice Marble, Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Chancery Way and fellow California-bred Carolina Mia are entered in Saturday’s $75,000 Camilla Urso Stakes for fillies and mares at Golden Gate. Alice Marble is by Grazen, out of the More Than Ready mare Unsung Heroine, was bred by owner Nick Alexander and is trained by Phil D’Amato. She has seven wins in 15 starts, earnings of $470,880 and is coming off a win in the Mar. 17 Irish O’Brien. 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 has four wins in six starts, earnings of $126,770 and is coming off a fifth in the Feb. 19 Spring Fever. Carolina Mia is by Gallant Son, out of the Sought After mare Carolina Grande, was bred by Daehling... ...

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Top Harbor Looking for Lost in the Fog

ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 26, 2023) – Multiple stakes winner Top Harbor is one of six California-breds entered in Saturday’s $75,000 Lost in the Fog Stakes at Golden Gate. Cool Mountain Lad is by Unionize, out of the Stormin Fever mare Honeysuckle Rose, was bred by Francis O’Leary, is owned by William Lordan, O’Leary and Larry Powers and is trained by Victor Trujillo. He has seven wins in 22 starts, earnings of $221,180 and is coming off a fourth in an Apr. 1 allowance. He was fifth in this race last year. Top Harbor is by Harbor the Gold, out of the He’s Top mare Reba Is Tops, was bred by owners Eric Schweiger, Gordy Jarnig & Kenny Marshall and is trained by Tim McCanna. He has six wins in 15 starts, earnings of $282,114 and is coming off a win in an Apr. 1 allowance. Lovesick Blues is by Grazen, out of the Ministers Wild Cat mare Queenofhercastle, was bred by owner Nick Alexander and is trained by Steven Miyadi.... ...

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Rose Maddux, Tam’s Little Angel Tangle

ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 26, 2023) – California-bred stakes winners Rose Maddux and Tam’s Little Angel are entered in Saturday’s $75,000 Golden Poppy Stakes for fillies and mares at Golden Gate. Rose Maddux 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 four wins in 13 starts, earnings of $262,782 and is coming off a second in the Mar. 17 Irish O’Brien. 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 17 starts, earnings of $195,860 and is coming off a fifth in a Mar. 12 allowance. ...

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Smiling Lady Enters California Oaks

ALBANY, Calif. (Apr. 26, 2023) – Smiling Lady is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $75,000 California Oaks for 3-year-old fillies at Golden Gate. Smiling Lady is by Smiling Tiger, out of the Pleasantly Perfect mare Banner Elk Lady, was bred by Premier Thoroughbreds, is owned by Philip Lebherz and trained by Andy Mathis. She has three wins in nine starts, earnings of $85,124 and is coming off a Mar. 26 optional claiming win. ...

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California-bred Trio Answers Siren Lure

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (April 20, 2023)—California-breds Indian Peak, Sunrise Journey and Burnin Turf are entered in Sunday’s $100,000 Siren Lure Stakes at Santa Anita. Third, beaten a head over the course by perhaps the best California-bred in training, The Chosen Vron, in the statebred Sensational Star Stakes March 19, Peter Miller’s hard-hitting 6-year-old gelding Indian Peak need only run back to his most recent start to be a factor in open company Sunday.                 Ridden by Juan Hernandez at 8-1 in the Sensational Star, Indian Peak will hope to get clear sailing under Ramon Vazquez in the Siren Lure as he seeks his second stakes win down the hill in what will be his fifth try.                 By Comic Strip, Indian Peak, who has proven versatile on all surfaces both routing and sprinting, was bred by Dr. & Mrs. William Gray and is owned by Wachtel Stable and Gary Barber.  The leading money earner in the field with $443,122, Indian Peak, a two-time stakes winner, is 29-6-5-3 overall. A... ...

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Brickyard Ride Aims for Another Kona Gold

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, CA (April 18, 2023)—Lightning quick and with a recent race to his credit, California-bred Brickyard Ride would appear to tower over five rival older horses as he defends his title in Santa Anita’s Grade III, $100,000 Kona Gold Stakes at 6 ½ furlongs on Saturday.                  Owned and bred by Alfred Pais and trained by Craig Lewis, Brickyard Ride, with two graded stakes wins to his credit, will be in search of his eighth overall stakes victory in what will be his 25th start.  A 6-year-old full horse by top California-based stallion Clubhouse Ride out of the Southern Image mare Brickyard Helen, Brickyard Ride unfurled early splits of 21.40 and 43 flat prior to checking third, beaten 2 ¾ lengths going about 6 ½ furlongs down Santa Anita’s hillside turf course in the Grade III San Simeon Stakes on March 5—his first start since well beaten in the Grade II Triple Bend Stakes at seven furlongs here on May 29 of last year.                 A winner on both... ...

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Opening Buzz Enters Giant’s Causeway

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Apr. 12, 2023) – Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Opening Buzz is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $250,000 Giant’s Causeway Stakes for fillies and mares at Keeneland. Opening Buzz is by Stanford, out of the Unbridled’s Song mare Open Mic, was bred by owner Tommy Town Thoroughbreds and is trained by Jonathan Wong. The multiple stakes winner has five wins in eight starts, earnings of $201,993 and is coming off a win in the Mar. 17 WEBN Frog Stakes at Turfway Park. ...

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Sassy Nature Digging for Limestone

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Apr. 12, 2023) – Stakes winner Sassy Nature is the lone California-bred entered in Friday’s $250,000 FanDuel Limestone Stakes for 3-year-old fillies at Keeneland. 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 five starts, earnings of $151,440 and is coming off a win in the Mar. 25 Melody of Colors Stakes at Gulfstream Park. ...

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Absolutely Zero, Ceiling Crusher Meet

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADA, CA (April 5, 2023)—Stakes winner Absolutely Zero, off since the Grade II Sorrento at Del Mar Aug. 13, and unbeaten stablemate Ceiling Crusher give trainer Doug O’Neill a strong hand for Saturday’s $150,000 Evening Jewel Stakes for statebred 3-year-old fillies.                 Absolutely Zero won her debut last May going 4 ½ furlongs at Santa Anita and returned a month later to knock off males in the Fasig-Tipton Futurity at five furlongs. Stepping up for the GII Sorrento going six furlongs at Del Mar Aug. 13, the Nyquist homebred for Reddam Racing stalked the pace before fading in the stretch to finish last of six.                 Absolutely Zero has worked eight times at Santa Anita for her comeback. She will break from the rail under regular rider Mario Gutierrez.                 Ceiling Crusher won her debut last June at Santa Anita when making her only start of the year. The Mr. Big filly resurfaced Jan. 29 at Santa Anita and took down a first-level allowance for statebreds... ...

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Kangaroo Court, Bus Buzz in Rematch

From Santa Anita Publicity  ARCADIA, CA (April 5, 2023)—One race after the Grade I Runhappy Santa Anita Derby on Saturday, 3-year-old statebreds take the spotlight with an intriguing rematch between Kangaroo Court and Bus Buzz in the $150,000 Echo Eddie Stakes.                 Contested at 6 ½ furlongs on the main track, the Echo Eddie has a field of eight that also includes the ascendant Clouseau for trainer Ian Kruljac and promising debut winner Left Hand Man for trainer Mark Glatt.                 Kangaroo Court was a 14 ¼ -length maiden winner sprinting at Del Mar last August before heading to the sidelines for the remainder of the year. He returned here on March 4 in a first-level allowance for statebreds where he hooked Bus Buzz, who himself had served notice when popping a 93 Beyer Speed Figure in his Feb. 4 bow here going six furlongs on the main track.                 In their first matchup, contested at six furlongs, Kangaroo Court and Bus Buzz dueled through fractions of 21.60 and 44.0 seconds for... ...

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One in Vermillion Shooting for Derby

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 5, 2023) – Multiple stakes winner One in Vermillion is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $750,000 Grade I Santa Anita Derby for 3-year-olds. 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 J. Eric Kruljac. He has three wins in five starts, earnings of $167,440 and is coming off a fifth in the Mar. 26 Sunland Park Derby. ...

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Don’t Get Pickled Gets Oaks Acid Test

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 5, 2023) – Stakes winner Don’t Get Pickled is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $400,000 Grade II Santa Anita Oaks for 3-year-old fillies. Don’t Get Pickled is by Misremembered, out of the Successful Appeal mare C C’s Pride, was bred by Harry & Cheryl Keshian, is owned by Stable H. M. A. and trained by Lorenzo Campuzano. She has two wins in eight starts, earnings of $101,088 and is coming off a third in the Mar. 26 Sunland Park Oaks. ...

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Leggs Galore, Big Summer Enter Monrovia

ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 5, 2023) – California-bred graded stakes winner Leggs Galore and fellow Cal-bred stakes winner Big Summer are entered in Saturday’s $200,000 Grade III Monrovia Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita. Leggs Galore is by Bayern, out of the Indian Charlie mare Cashing Tickets, was bred by owner William Sims and is trained by Phil D’Amato. She has nine wins in 18 starts, earnings of $694,548 and is making her first start since a second in the Oct. 15 California Distaff Handicap. Big Summer is by Mr. Big, out of the Cee’s Tizzy mare Ultimate Summer, was bred by Bob Abrams & Mitchel Dutko, is owned by Abrams, Dutko and Michael Paran and is trained by Carla Gaines. She has four wins in 12 starts, earnings of $315,160 and is coming off a second in the Feb. 18 Wishing Well. ...

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Cal-bred Trio Enters Wildcat Stakes

PHOENIX, Ariz. (Apr. 9, 2023) – California-breds Luvluv, Shinny and Club Mesquite are entered in Saturday’s $60,000 Wildcat Stakes at Turf Paradise. Luvluv is by Lakerville, out of the Fasliyev mare Lucera, was bred by Michael Neumann & Francoise Dupuis and is owned by trainer Adam Kitchingman. He has three wins in 26 starts, earnings of $234,782 and is coming off a sixth in a Feb. 5 optional claimer. Shinny is by Square Eddie, out of the Indian Charlie mare Cryptic, was bred by Reddam Racing and is owned by trainer Mike Chambers and Bradley Green. He has 18 wins in 35 starts, earnings of $220,451 and is coming off a second in a Mar. 25 optional claimer. Club Mesquite is by Clubhouse Ride, out of the Huddle Up mare Mesquite, was bred by Harris Farms, is owned by Harry Richardson and trained by Matt Williams. He has three wins in 30 starts, earnings of $65,112 and is coming off a third in a Mar. 29 starter’s optional claimer. ...

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Johnny Taboada

RAISING AWARENESS OF AUTISM THROUGH HORSES It’s been 15 years since Johnny Taboada’s horse, California-bred Autism Awareness, produced a shocking 62-1 victory in the El Camino Real Derby (G3) at Bay Meadows. At the time, Taboada — a passionate small-scale horse owner—was using the race to fight for recognition of the neurodevelopment disorder that had rocked his family after his son, Renzo, was diagnosed several years earlier. Since that big win, awareness of autism has risen significantly, Taboada says. Renzo, now 23, has made remarkable strides as well, and expects to graduate later this year with a degree in graphic design from California State University, East Bay. “Definitely people are more aware of autism in the last 10 years,” Taboada said. “When we were starting out with Renzo, it was impossible to get help or services. They said he was ‘just delayed’—that’s what they told us. I fought for help through three different school districts because I knew what we needed to do for my son. And it made me... ...

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One in Vermillion to Enter Santa Anita Derby

By DRF.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 2, 2023) — The Grade 1 Runhappy Santa Anita Derby next Saturday added two starters on Sunday with the inclusion of a well-regarded contender in National Treasure and the California-bred longshot One in Vermillion, their trainers said Sunday. National Treasure, third in the Grade 1 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile at Keeneland in November, is more likely to start in the $750,000 Santa Anita Derby than Saturday’s Grade 1 Blue Grass Stakes at Keeneland. Trainer Tim Yakteen allowed that there is “small chance” National Treasure could be shipped to Kentucky. National Treasure was third in the Grade 3 Sham Stakes at Santa Anita on Jan. 8 in his lone start so far this year. National Treasure was withdrawn from the Grade 2 San Felipe Stakes at Santa Anita on March 4 because of a tender foot, but has had a steady sequence of workouts since mid-March. One in Vermillion, based in Arizona, was fifth in the Grade 3 Sunland Derby at Sunland Park on March 26. He... ...

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Clayton Delaney Entered in Inaugural

FARMINGTON, N.M. (Apr. 3, 2023) – Clayton Delaney is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $75,000 Inaugural Stakes at Sunray Park. Clayton Delaney is by Grazen, out of the Bertrando mare Sudden Sunday, was bred by Nick Alexander, is owned by Jeremy Ramsland and is trained by Dick Cappellucci. He has four wins in 22 starts, earnings of $181,488 and is coming off a fifth in the Mar. 26 Bill Thomas Memorial Stakes. ...

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Closing Remarks Could Be a Royal Heroine

From Santa Anita Publicity  ARCADIA, CA (March 29, 2023)—With standout distaffer Quattroelle absent, Harris Farms’ homebred Closing Remarks rates a huge chance from off the pace in Saturday’s Grade II, $200,000 Royal Heroine Stakes at Santa Anita.  For older fillies and mares at one mile on turf, the Royal Heroine attracted a field of six—four of which exit the Grade II Buena Vista which was won by Quattroelle at a mile on grass here March 4.         A 5-year-old California-bred mare by Vronsky, Closing Remarks was full of run at the rail in the run up the backside March 4, but had to steady and lose all position three furlongs out when pacesetter Kitty Kitana stopped suddenly.         Although she was shuffled back at a critical point of call, Closing Remarks, under regular pilot Joe Bravo, was able to gather herself, swing wide and mount an impressive rally, finishing third, beaten 1 ½ lengths.        Trained by Carla Gaines, Closing Remarks was third, beaten one length... ...

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Teddy’s Barino Ships to Oaklawn Park

HOT SPRINGS, Ark. (Mar. 25, 2023) – Stakes winner Teddy’s Barino is the lone California-bred entered in Friday’s $250,000 Matron Stakes for fillies and mares at Oaklawn Park. Teddy’s Barino is by Grazen, out of the Speightstown mare Miss Rebound, was bred by owner Red Baron’s Barn & Vaya Con Suerte and is trained by Mark Glatt. She has six wins in 10 starts, earnings of $367,590 and is coming off win in a Feb. 18 optional claimer. ...

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Quick Turnaround for Clayton Delaney

SUNLAND PARK, N.M. (Mar. 26, 2023) – Clayton Delaney is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $150,000 Sunland Park Handicap. Clayton Delaney is by Grazen, out of the Bertrando mare Sudden Sunday, was bred by Nick Alexander, is owned by Jeremy Ramsland and is trained by Dick Cappellucci. He has four wins in 22 starts, earnings of $181,488 and is being wheeled back seven days after finishing fifth in the Bill Thomas Memorial Stakes. ...

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Santa Anita Cancels Friday, Adds Monday

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, CA (March 21, 2023)—With heavy rain and the likelihood of more than three inches of precipitation at Santa Anita through Wednesday, track officials, in consultation with both the CHRB, TOC, Jockeys’ Guild and the CTT, have opted to cancel Friday’s eight-race program and to instead enter on Thursday morning for a make-up day of live racing on Monday, March 27.         Along with entries for Monday, entries will also be taken as originally scheduled on Thursday for this Sunday’s races as well.         “By running on Monday instead of Friday, we’re going to allow both the main track and our turf course an extra day to dry out before we run on Saturday,” said Santa Anita Director of Racing and Racing Secretary Jason Egan.  “This will also enable us to run on the grass all three days and it will give horses a chance to return to training prior to racing this weekend.”        Entries for live racing this... ...

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One in Vermillion Seeking Derby Points

SUNLAND PARK, N.M. (Mar. 19, 2023) – Multiple stakes winner One in Vermillion is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $600,000 Grade III Sunland Park Derby for 3-year-olds. 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 three wins in four starts, earnings of $149,620 and is coming off a win in the Jan. 29 Riley Allison Derby. ...

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Is Third Time the Charm for Minister of Soul?

SUNLAND PARK, N.M. (Mar. 19, 2023) – Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Minister of Soul and fellow California-bred Clayton Delaney are entered in Sunday’s $100,000 Bill Thomas Memorial Stakes at Sunland Park. Minister of Soul is by Ministers Wild Cat, out of the Bernstein mare Sensitive Soul, was bred by Dahlberg Farms and is owned by trainer Esteban Martinez. He has 16 wins in 52 starts, earnings of $504,242 and is coming off a seventh in the Mar. 11 Phoenix Gold Cup. The $16,000 purchase at the Northern California Yearling Sale was third in this race last year and was second in 2019. Clayton Delaney is by Grazen, out of the Bertrando mare Sudden Sunday, was bred by Nick Alexander, is owned by Jeremy Ramsland and trained by Dick Cappelucci. He has four wins in 21 starts, earnings of $178,488 and did not finish his last start Mar. 11 in the Cottom Fitzsimmons. ...

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Don’t Get Pickled in Sunland Park Oaks

SUNLAND PARK, N.M. (Mar. 19, 2023) – Stakes winner Don’t Get Pickled is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $100,000 Sunland Park Oaks for 3-year-old fillies. Don’t Get Pickled is by Misremembered, out of the Successful Appeal mare C C’s Pride, was bred by Harry & Cheryl Keshian, is owned by H. M. A. Stable and trained by Miguel Hernandez. She has two wins in seven starts, earnings of $71,688 and is coming off a fourth in the Mar. 11 Arizona Oaks. ...

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NorCal Sale Grad in Sunland Park Stakes

SUNLAND PARK, N.M. (Mar. 19, 2023) – Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Brave Cinderella is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $100,000 Harry Henson Handicap for fillies and mares at Sunland Park. Brave Cinderella is by Brave Cat, out of the Liberty Gold mare Cinderella Liberty, was bred by George & Mary Clare Schmitt, is owned by Amanda Sweeten & Blanca Varela and is trained by Andres Gonzalez. The $1,400 purchase at the Northern California Yearling Sale has four wins in 21 starts, earnings of $104,316 and is coming off a fourth in a Mar. 5 allowance. ...

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Sassy Nature Enters Gulfstream Park Stakes

HALLANDALE BEACH, Fla. (Mar. 19, 2023) – Sassy Nature is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Melody of Colors Stakes for 3-year-old fillies at Gulfstream Park. Sassy Nature is by Straight Fire, out of the After Market mare Renee’s Queen, was bred by Straight Fire, LLC, is owned by CTR Stables and trained by Jack Sisterson. She has two wins in four starts, earnings of $92,540 and is coming off a Mar. 1 optional claimer win. ...

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Speedy Cal-breds to be Auctioned at Ocala

OCALA, Fla. (Mar. 18, 2023) – Nine California-breds, including a trio purchased at the Northern California Yearling Sale, are scheduled to go through the ring at the Ocala Breeders’ Sales Company March 2-Year-Olds in Training Sale, to be held Monday through Wednesday, March 20-22. Of the nine, the one with the fastest under-tack time was Hip 568, a colt by Cat Burglar, out of the Harlan’s Holiday mare Janice Sue, bred by Richard Barton Enterprises and consigned by Triple J Equine Sales. Clocked in 9.4 seconds for the one furlong, he sold for $4,500 at the Northern California Yearling Sale. Hip 181, a colt by Danzing Candy out of the Bertrando mare Visual Treat, was bred by Liberty Road Stables and consigned by Triple J Equine Sales. Purchased for $10,000 at the Northern California Yearling Sale, he ran one furlong in 10.2 seconds. Hip 210, another colt by Danzing Candy out of the mare Yolanda B. Too, was bred by Checkmate Thoroughbreds and consigned by Triple J Equine. Purchased for... ...

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The Chosen Vron Seeks 10th Stakes Win

 ARCADIA, CA (March 16, 2023)—Never better at age five, trainer Eric Kruljac’s brilliant California-bred gelding The Chosen Vron seeks his 10th career stakes victory as he heads a field of five older horses in Sunday’s $100,000 Sensational Star Stakes at about 6 ½ furlongs down Santa Anita’s Camino Real Hillside Turf Course.                 The Sensational Star is a part of the lucrative CTBA-sponsored Golden State Series for California-bred or sired horses.                 A 1 ¼ length winner of his only hillside start, the California Flag Handicap four starts back on Oct. 16, The Chosen Vron was nothing short of sensational in taking his most recent assignment, the one mile dirt Tiznow Stakes versus statebreds on Feb. 20 by 6 ½ lengths, a race in which he earned a career-best 103 Beyer Speed Figure.                 With two graded wins at age three ranking high among his nine stakes victories, The Chosen Vron has 10 wins from 14 overall starts and earnings of $672,678.  By Vronsky out of the Tiz Wonderful mare Tiz Molly,... ...

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Stakes-winning Trio in McCann’s Mojave

ALBANY, Calif. (Mar. 15, 2023) – Stakes winners Ward ‘n Jerry, Jimmy Blue Jeans and American Farmer are among the five entries in Saturday’s $75,000 McCann’s Mojave Stakes for Golden State Series eligibles at Golden Gate. Graded stakes winner Ward ‘n Jerry is by Lucky Pulpit, out of the Dehere mare Tamarack Bay, was bred by owners Mr. & Mrs. Larry Williams and is trained by Steven Specht. He has eight wins in 33 starts, earnings of $492,485 and is coming off a fifth in a Feb. 24 optional claimer. Stakes winner 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 five wins in 16 starts, earnings of $260,948 and is coming off a seventh in the Feb. 18 El Dorado Shooter. Crazy Dreams is by Gallant Son, out of the Sought After mare Carolina Grande, was bred by Daehling... ...

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Alice Marble, Big Summer in Irish O’Brien

From Santa Anita Publicity  ARCADIA, CA (March 12, 2023)—Favoritism is likely to be hotly contested in Friday’s $100,000 Irish O’Brien Stakes at Santa Anita, as two ultra consistent mares, the Phil D’Amato-trained Alice Marble and the Carla Gaines-conditioned Big Summer head a field of six older fillies and mares competing at about 6 ½ furlongs down the hillside turf course.                 The Irish O’Brien is part of the lucrative CTBA-sponsored Golden State Series for eligible California-bred or sired horses.                 Owned and bred by Nick Alexander, Alice Marble, fresh off a win going six furlongs on the main track versus statebreds in the Spring Fever Stakes Feb. 19, rates a slight edge with Flavien Prat back in the saddle.  A winner of six of her nine starts with D’Amato and never worse than third in any of them, this 6-year-old mare by Grazen out of the More Than Ready mare Unsung Heroine has solid hillside  credentials that include second place finishes in the Grade II Monrovia on April 9 of last year... ...

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NorCal Sale Grad Tries Another Turfway Stake

FLORENCE, Ky. (Mar. 12, 2023) – Northern California Yearling Sale graduate Opening Buzz is the lone California-bred entered in Friday’s $125,000 WEBN Frog Stakes for fillies and mares at Turfway Park. Opening Buzz is by Stanford, out of the Unbridled’s Song mare Open Mic, was bred by owner Tommy Town Thoroughbreds and is trained by Jonathan Wong. She has four wins in seven starts, earnings of $153,385 and is coming off a sixth in the Feb. 25 Wintergreen Stakes. ...

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Santa Anita Cancels Friday Race Card

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 10, 2023)—Following overnight rain that is expected  to continue throughout the day, Santa Anita has cancelled Friday’s eight-race card, under the advisement of its track maintenance crew.                         Accordingly, Santa Anita will add races to next week’s live racing cards.                         Santa Anita will be open Friday for simulcast wagering, beginning at 10 a.m. in the track’s Grandstand Paddock Room. Admission and parking are free.                 For additional information, including entries and complete morning line information on Saturday’s nine race program, please visit santaanita.com or call (626) 574-RACE.         First post time for a nine-race card on Saturday is 12:30 pm with admission gates opening at 10:30 am. ...

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CHRB Meeting Advisory

From CHRB ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 9, 2023) — The California Horse Racing Board will conduct an in-person meeting on Thursday, March 16, 2023, beginning at 9:30 a.m. at the Le Meridien Hotel at 130 W. Huntington Drive in Arcadia. This meeting will be open to the public Le Meridien offers $12 valet parking. 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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Harper’s Gallop Strides into Santa Ana

ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 9, 2023) – Harper’s Gallop is the lone California-bred entered in Sunday’s $100,000 Grade III Santa Ana Stakes for fillies and mares at Santa Anita. Harper’s Gallop is by Suances, out of the Broken Vow mare Dypsy, was bred by owners Red Baron’s Barn & Vaya Con Suerte and is trained by Leonard Powell. She has six wins in 24 starts, earnings of $236,065 and is coming off a Feb. 18 starter’s allowance win. ...

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Beholder Mile Next for Fun to Dream

From Santa Anita Publicity  ARCADIA, Calif. (March 8, 2023)—The CTBA Horse of the Year and a Grade I winner in search of her fifth consecutive win, California-bred Fun to Dream heads an outstanding field of eight older fillies and mares in Saturday’s Grade I, $500,000 Beholder Mile at Santa Anita.                  By 2016 Eclipse Champion 3-year-old Colt Arrogate, Fun to Dream took the opening day Grade I La Brea Stakes at seven furlongs and dominated five rivals at the same distance in taking the Grade II Santa Monica Stakes here on Feb. 4 in a performance that suggested she’ll have no problem taking on top competition at a flat mile.                 Bred in California by her trainer, Bob Baffert and Connie Pageler, Fun to Dream, who is out of the Maria’s Mon mare Lutess, is owned by Connie Pageler and Jill Baffert.                 A winner of her only two-turn assignment, a mile and one sixteenth first condition allowance four starts back on Oct. 1, Fun to Dream has won six out of... ...

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Clem Labine Seeks First Stakes Win

ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 8, 2023) – Clem Labine is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $200,000 Grade III San Carlos Stakes at Santa Anita. Clem Labine is by Grazen, out of the Tribal Rule mare Tribal Dress, was bred by Nick Alexander, is owned by Mia Familia Racing Stable, Bob Davis, Moon Han and Dudley Ward and is trained by Librado Barocio. He has 11 wins in 40 starts, earnings of $360,227 and is coming off a second in a Feb. 19 optional allowance. ...

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Golden Gate Moves Friday Card to Thursday

From Golden Gate Publicity ALBANY, Calif. (Mar. 6, 2023) — Golden Gate Fields track officials have announced late Monday morning that the decision has been made to move the Friday, March 10 live race card to Thursday, March 9 out of an abundance of caution, and in consultation with industry stakeholders. The national weather service is forecasting high winds and heavy rain for the Bay Area on Friday.   Eight races are on the program for the now-Thursday live race card at Golden Gate. First post time remains at 12:45 PM. Santa Anita Park, also running on Thursday, has an eight-race card with first post at 12:30 PM. With both California tracks in play on Thursday, the Golden Hour Double and Late Pick 4 wagers will be offered.  ...

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Self Isolation Enters Correction Stakes

OZONE PARK, N.Y. (Mar. 8, 2023) – Self Isolation is the lone California-bred entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Correction Stakes for fillies and mares at Aqueduct. 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 six wins in 19 starts, earnings of $315,050 and is coming off a sixth in a Feb. 10 optional claimer. ...

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Santa Anita Adds Thursday Racing Card

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (March 6, 2023)—Entries were taken Sunday at Santa Anita for an eight-race card on Thursday, with first post time at 12:30 p.m.  With racing cancelled due heavy rains on Feb. 25 & 26, Santa Anita has been granted permission by the CHRB to run Thursday, which was not originally scheduled for live racing.                 Santa Anita will offer free General Admission and Parking, as well as $3 beers and $5 margaritas, on both Thursday and Friday.                 A pair of $72,000 allowance races will highlight Thursday’s program.  Race six, for fillies and mares bred or sired in California, has attracted a field of seven at six furlongs on the main track.                 Thursday’s seventh race, for older horses at a mile and one quarter over the Camino Real Turf Course, attracted a field of nine.                 Santa will conduct a four-day week, with live racing offered through Sunday, March 12.                 Thursday’s entries are currently available at santaanita.com.  For additional information, please call (626) 574-RACE. ...

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Cal-breds After Another Phoenix Gold Cup

PHOENIX, Ariz. (Mar. 5, 2023) – Former winners of the race Minister of Soul and Tiger Dad and fellow California-breds Jazz Hands and Mr. Stang are entered in Saturday’s $100,000 Phoenix Gold Cup at Turf Paradise. Minister of Soul is by Minister Wild Cat, out of the Bernstein mare Sensitive Soul, was bred by Dahlberg Farms and is owned by trainer Esteban Martinez. A $16,000 purchase at the Northern California Yearling Sale, he has 16 wins in 51 starts, earnings of $503,242 and is coming off a second in a Feb. 18 optional claimer. This is his fifth start in the race, having finished fifth race last year, third in 2021, second in 2020 and first in 2019. Defending champion Tiger Dad is by Smiling Tiger, 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 seven wins in 34 starts, earnings of $465,452 and is coming off a... ...

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