By DRF.com
DEL MAR, Calif. (Nov. 5, 2021) — Friday’s $176,000 Golden State Juvenile Fillies could have been called George Krikorian’s Golden State Juvenile Fillies.
Big Switch and 8-5 favorite Big Novel – both bred and owned by Krikorian – finished first and second in the seven-furlong race for statebreds. Yes, Krikorian said he had the exacta, which paid $10.70 for $1.
The fillies are by Mr. Big, owned by Krikorian.
“It makes me feel proud,” Krikiorian said. “They were 1-2 against some pretty good competition. It’s exciting.
“They both look to have good futures.”
Big Switch, ridden for the first time by Irad Ortiz, Jr., closed from fifth in a field of eight to win by 2 3/4 lengths over Big Novel, who was ridden by Joe Bravo. Big Switch was timed in 1:22.39. He paid $8.60.
Ortiz said Big Switch’s ability made for an easier race.
“I didn’t do much,” Ortiz said. “The first time she ran, she got bumped coming out of the gate. She broke much better. She waited for me. When I asked her, she took off.”
The first two finishers are trained by John Sadler.
Vivacious Vanessa (3-1) closed well to finish third. She was supplemented for $25,000 to gain lifelong eligibility to stakes for statebreds.
Drizella finished fourth, followed by Madiha, Bold Choice, Vronsky Feint, and It’s Simple.
Big Switch is unbeaten in two starts, beginning with a win in a maiden special weight race for statebred fillies here on Aug. 20. Big Switch has earned $141,750.