DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 24, 2016) – California-bred Magic Mark ($23) disputed the pace throughout the $100,735 second division of Wednesday’s Harry F. Brubaker Strakes at Del Mar to score by 2 1/4 lengths over 18-1 Songforjohnmichael. Ridden by Drayden Van Dyke, Magic Mark was timed in 1:35.55.
Trainer Ron Ellis said being near the front is key for Magic Mark.
“When he gets dirt in his face, he’s not as brave,” Ellis said. “He’s got a high cruising speed. Drayden did an amazing job.”
Magic Mark, 6, races for breeders Dorine and John Lanza. By Benchmark, Magic Mark has won six of 16 starts and earned $325,634. Magic Mark won the Bertrando Stakes at Los Alamitos in July 2015.