By Robbie Rodriguez
ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 28, 2014) — Two weeks before California Chrome was born, co-owner/breeder of California Chrome, Steve Coburn, had a dream.
“I woke up and told my wife I had a dream and that we’re going to have a chestnut colt, with a big white blaze on his face, with four white stockings.” Coburn said.
On February 18, 2011, California Chrome was born, looking exactly like the horse in his dream.
“My sister Brenda passed away succumbing to cancer when she was only 36 years old, and her birthday was February 18.” Coburn said in a much deeper voice exuding with pride.
“It’ll be 36 years this year since we’ve had a Triple Crown winner.” Coburn continued. “And this year’s Kentucky Derby falls on my 61st birthday.”
When California Chrome’s dam Love the Chase was in training as a young filly, she was trained by Greg Gilchrist.
“Greg told me I’d be a real dumb ass to get into this game.” Coburn said. “So Perry Martin (Also co-owner/breeder of California Chrome) and I named our partnership DAP Racing Stables. “ Steve explained, “D.A.P. stands for ‘Dumb Ass Partners’.”
“That’s why we have a picture of a jackass on the back of our purple and green silks.”
“The girls picked the colors.” Steve continued, “Perry’s wife Denise favorite color is emerald green, and my wife Carolyn’s favorite color in purple.”
After winning the California Cup Classic on Saturday, January 25, 2014, California Chrome has now won 4 out of 8 starts, with one second for total earnings of $352,350.
Coburn said that California Chrome will be pointing for the 1 1/16 San Felipe Stakes at Santa Anita in March 2014.
“If he wins the San Felipe, he’ll have enough points to go to the Derby.” Coburn concluded.