Del Mar Bing Crosby Season 2019 Report (November 22-24)

Del Mar Recap for Friday (11-22-19)

Fast, drying out main track. Three races were originally scheduled for turf and moved to dirt. There were three front running winners (8f, 6f, 7f).

Riding doubles for Rafael Bejarano, Abel Cedillo, and Drayden Van Dyke.

The $2 Pick 6 pool was $81,254, and multiple tickets with all six winners paid $2,067.00 each. The 5 out of 6 consolation payoff was $25.40. The single ticket jackpot carryover stands at $96,562.

Nov. 22 Claims: Race 6 - Kynance ($40k, Jorge Periban).   

DMR Full Card Highlights for Friday (11-22-19)
DMR 1 Miracle March/Autumn Day Quinella ($12.40)
DMR 4 GOVENOR CINCH (DMR Best Bet, $4.20), Quinella ($6.00), Trifecta ($5.35)
Double (races 3-4, $11.60)
Pick 3 (races 2-4, $12.45)
DMR 5 CARNELIAN HERO ($2.80)
Double (races 4-5, $6.80)
Pick 3 (races 3-5, $5.85)
DMR 6 Carressa/Persepolis/Meso Trifeta ($14.40)
Double (races 5-6, $12.20)
Pick 3 (races 4-6, $5.25)

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Santa Anita Park Weekly Report (October 24-27)

Santa Anita Recap for Thursday (10-24-19)

Fast main track and firm turf course. Three front running sprint winners on dirt (6f, 6f, 5.5f). The winning turf course running styles were a front runner at one mile, a front runner at 5.5 furlongs, and a last-to-first closer in a 4-horse field at 5.5 furlongs (rail at 30 feet). 

Hat trick for Agapito Delgadillo. Trainer Richard Baltas saddled three winners and Delgadillo rode two.

The Rainbow 6 pool was $89,406, and multiple winning tickets paid $1,143.60 each. There will be a jackpot carryover of $291,822 when live racing resumes on Friday, Oct. 25.

Oct 24 Claims: Race 4 - Short of Ez ($10k, Anna Meah). Race 5 - Conquest Cobra ($25k, Vann Belvoir), Getaloadofthis ($25k, Doug O’Neill), Italiano ($25k, Vann Belvoir). Race 8 - Big Barrel ($12.5k, Gary Stute), Dawood ($12.5k, Jeff Metz).

SA Full Card Highlights for 10-24-19
SA 5 Awesome Heights/Getaloadofthis Exacta (SA Best Bet #1, $8.40)
SA Late Pick 4 (races 5-8, $129.35)

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Santa Anita Recap for Friday (10-25-19)

Fast main track and firm turf course. No front running winners on dirt. I have not said that in quite some time. The winning turf course running styles were a front runner at 5.5 furlongs, a dueling front runner at 5.5 furlongs, and a midpack stalker at a mile and an eighth (rail at 30 feet).

Maiden claiming dirt sprint riding double for apprentice J. C. Diaz Jr.

The Rainbow 6 pool was $99,068, and multiple winning tickets paid $13,231 each. There will be a jackpot carryover of $314,504 when live racing resumes on Saturday, Oct. 26.

Oct 25 Claims: Race 1 - Cabin John ($25k, Anthony Saavedra), Dukes Up ($25k, Peter Eurton), Kylemore ($25k, Paul Aguirre). Race 6 - Harmon ($50k, Victor Trujillo), Volubile ($50k, Bob Hess Jr).

SA Full Card Highlights for 10-25-19
SA 1 Dukes Up/Cabin John Exacta ($7.30)
SA 7 HARD NOT TO LOVE ($11.40), Exacta ($16.40)
SA 8 Dubnation/Norski Exacta ($9.70)
Double (races 7-8, $41.80)

You can read the rest of this post at The Runaway Horse

Del Mar Week 3 Recap (July 31 thru August 4)

Del Mar Recap for Wednesday (7-31-19)

Fast main track and firm turf course. Two front running winners on dirt (6f, 5.5f). The winning turf course running styles were a front runner at one mile, and a stalker at one mile (rail at 30 feet).

Check out Today's Racing Digest for handicapping products, analysis, and more! Kingly capture above courtesy of Today's Racing Digest.   

Rafael Bejarano booted home a pair. Doug O’Neill saddled five winners and Bejarano rode two. 

The $2 Pick 6 pool was $129,387, and tickets with all six winners paid $13,824.80. The 5 out of 6 consolation payoff was $149.60. The single ticket jackpot carryover stands at $224,098.  

CTBA Stakes Recap (7-31-19) - Winner: Bulletproof One ($3.00)

Bulletproof One was just plain too fast for her rivals in this CA-bred juvenile filly stakes event at 5.5f. Norberto Arroyo Jr. put the Peter Miller trainee on the lead in 21.64, and that was all she wrote. She was coasting out front following a half-mile in 45.22, and she won by 6+ lengths while stopping the clock in 1:04.70. Unchain Her Heart chased from 2nd throughout, and Wise Rachel flew late to snatch the show away from Cholula Lips. None of Your Biz was 5th, followed by Roses for Laura, Bella Renella, and Acai. 

July 31 Claims: Race 1 Grey Lady ($40k, Alfredo Marquez). Race 5 - Tammy’s Window ($25k, Peter Miller). 

Del Mar Full Card Highlights for Wednesday (7-31-19)
DMR 6 BULLETPROOF ONE ($3.00)
Double (races 6-7, $10.20)
SAR 9 Special Relativity/Saguaro Row Exacta ($8.70)

You can read the rest of this post at The Runaway Horse

Santa Anita Park Recaps (May 18-21, May 25-29)

Thursday SANTA ANITA PARK Recap: May 18

Fast main track and firm turf course. All five dirt races were won by front runners or dueling pace prompters (4.5f, 6f, 6f, 8f, 6f). The winning turf course running styles were a patient runner one mile, a front runner at nine furlongs, and a stalker at one mile (rail at 20 feet).

Flavien Prat booted home two flat mile turf winners.

Ismelucky went on my watch list after TRD clockers gave her the thumbs up going into her May 4 debut (clearly second best). In today’s second race, she dueled inside and pulled clear to win by 2-1/2 lengths as the 2-1 second choice. Post time favorite Mondaymorningblues found trouble more than once (steadied turn, tight inside midstretch) under Maldonado in an uncomfortable 4th place debut (missed 3rd by nose, 4.5 lengths clear of rest). She can go better next time for Miller.

Check out The Runaway Horse for free picks, news, Triple Crown 2017 updates, full card reports, and more!

Friday SANTA ANITA PARK Recap: May 19

Fast main track and firm turf course. Only one wire-to-wire winner on dirt (6f). The winning turf course running styles were a closer at one mile, a downhill closer, and two stalkers at one mile (rail at 30 feet).

Rafael Bejarano and apprentice Evin Roman both booted home a pair.

Two of my three watch horses scored on May 19. I played Sheza Milky Way on April 9 and was impressed with her late burst. She came back to win today’s opener as the favorite. I thought Incredible Luck ran a winning race on April 22 (did all pace dirty work, finished 2nd). This time, he comfortably tracked Particlacelerator and inched clear by 1-1/4 lengths as the strong favorite. My third watch horses did note fare as well. Whiskey Ginger blew the break and was up for 3rd in his April 15 bow. In today’s sixth race, he was a bit slow to begin, pulled hard to stalk the pace, and weakened to finish 6th under Bejarano.

Saturday SANTA ANITA PARK Recap: May 20

Fast main track and firm turf course. Two wire-to-wire winners on dirt (8f, 6f). The winning turf course running styles were a front runner at one mile, a stalker at nine furlongs, a closer at ten furlongs, and a patient runner at one mile.

Rafael Bejarano, Flavien Prat, and Joe Talamo each booted home a pair. Phil D’Amato saddled two winners including Ransom the Moon in the G2 Kona Gold.

A couple of my watch horses ran today beginning with Smokey Image in the Crystal Water. I like how he came again for the show March 31. In today’s opener, he stalked fleet flat mile turf specialist What a View and lost 2nd late in an okay effort at 12-1.

My other watch horse, Ransom the Moon, ran to his sharp works in a big sprint win on April 30 and had earned quality TRD all-weather numbers at WO prior to that. In today’s G2 Kona Gold, he settled nicely in 6th and powered home by 2-1/2 lengths at 7-2 for Prat/D’Amato.

Sunday SANTA ANITA PARK Recap: May 21

Fast main track and firm turf course. Only one wire-to-wire winner on the card and that was Moon Kitty (5.5f) under Evin Roman’s aggressive handling. The winning turf course running styles were a stalker at nine furlongs and patient runner Moonless Sky (placed first via DQ) in the Fran’s Valentine (rail at 10 feet).

Hat trick for Kent Desormeaux. Apprentice Evin Roman booted home a pair.
JARROD HORAK'S SANTA ANITA PARK REPORT (May 25-29)

Thursday SANTA ANITA PARK Recap: May 25

Fast main track and firm turf course. Two front running winners on a speed favorite dirt oval (6f, 4.5f). The winning turf course running styles were a presser at ten furlongs, a downhill dueler, a patient runner at one mile, and a patient midpack stalker at nine furlongs (rail at 20 feet).

Flavien Prat booted home a pair. Peter Miller saddled two winners and both looked good (Te Amo Mamo, Avicci).

Saudi Chroma was a $360k purchase for Doug O’Neill/Zedan Racing Stables. In today’s second race, she went straight to the front and won under a hand ride at 5-2. Her stablemate Tyfosha outworked her recently and is tentatively scheduled to debut on June 8.

Check out Today's Racing Digest for handicapping products, analysis, and more!

Friday SANTA ANITA PARK Recap: May 26

Fast main track and firm turf course.

Edwin Maldonado and Flavien Prat both guided him two winners. Peter Miller saddled two more winners.

Allaboutmike went on my watch list on April 15 after he was fractious at the gate, made a nice outside middle move to get into the top three, and flattened out to finish 4th in the eighth race. That was his first SoCal start for Miller and in today’s finale, he was sent to the lead under Maldonado and kept on going at 4-1.

Saturday SANTA ANITA PARK Recap: May 27

Fast main track and firm turf course.

Irad Ortiz Jr. rode two winners including Lady Eli in the Grade I Gamely. Jerry Hollendorfer saddled two winners.

The pace figured to be hot in the Grade I Gold Cup and Cupid was in the right place throughout for Bejarano/Baffert. Follow Me Crev was the unlucky runner-up. He was bumped at the start by Baffert chalk American Freedom and that incident cost him valuable lengths early. He was parked eight lengths behind eventual winner Cupid and made up more than half of that deficit. Things could have gotten very interesting in the stretch with a clean beginning.


In other stakes action, red-hot gelding Stormy Liberal won the Grade III Daytona by a measured neck over Ambitious Brew.

Avenge, making her first start in 6+ months, looked like the controlling speed on paper but classy mare Lady Eli never let her get away and held off a late bid from Goodyearforroses. Mokat was training well but was in a bit too deep. She is a flat mile specialist and can bounce back if she shows up in a softer spot at eight furlongs next time.

The pace was took quick for Enola Gray (held best of 4 speed horses) and she faded out of the superfecta late in the Grade II Monrovia. 2016 Gamely winner Illuminant wisely cut back in distance and steered clear of Lady Eli. Prat gave her a great ground saving ride in the stretch and she beat longshot Coniah by a 1/2 length. Sharp downhill specialist Anita Partner was on the scene late in 3rd. 

Sunday SANTA ANITA PARK Recap: May 28

Fast main track and firm turf course. Five front running winners on the speed favoring dirt oval (6,5f, 6.5f, 6f, 5.5f, 5.5f)

Hat trick for hustling apprentice Evin Roman.

The top four finishers (Ashleyluvssugar, Frank Conversation, Syntax, Liam the Charmer) in the Grade II Charles Whittingham saved ground at some point but post time favorite Itsinthepost was not so fortunate. He went up four wide to stalk the pace under Tyler Baze and raced wide throughout. He was the fifth horse on the line and Texas Ryano was a neck behind him and had a wide trip from post 10.

Monday SANTA ANITA PARK Recap: May 29

Fast main track and firm turf course. Two wire-to-wire winners on dirt (6f, 5f). The winning turf course running styles were a downhill stalker, a patient first timer breaking from the rail down the hill, and a stalker at nine furlongs (rail at 10 feet).

Joe Talamo booted home a pair including Marckie’s Water in the Snow Chief. Richard Baltas saddled two turf winners (Del Mar Ann, Marckie’s Water).

It is not easy for a first timer to win from the rail down the hill but Meadowsweet ran to her strong works and got up on the line under Mike Smith to nip She’sashocker.

Santa Anita Park Report Featuring Horses to Watch for May 11-14

Thursday SANTA ANITA PARK Recap: May 11

Fast main track and firm turf course. Two wire-to-wire sprint winner on dirt (5.5f, 6f). The winning turf course running styles were a front runner down the hill, a downhill stalker, and a downhill closer (rail at 30 feet).

Rafael Bejarano and Tiago Pereira both booted home a pair. Matthew Chew saddled two winners.

Check out Today's Racing Digest for handicapping products, analysis, and more! Kenda capture above courtesy of Today's Racing Digest.  

Friday SANTA ANITA PARK Recap: May 12

Fast main track and firm turf course. Two wire-to-wire winner on dirt (5.5f, 8.5f). The winning downhill turf course running styles were three dueling front runners (rail at 20 feet).

Kent Desormeaux and apprentice Evin Roman both booted home a pair.

Stop the Violence finished well for the show (6 lengths clear of 4th) at 4.5f for juvenile first timers. He probably won’t be a maiden much longer for Miller.

Saturday SANTA ANITA PARK Recap: May 13

Fast main track and firm turf course. Only one wire-to-wire winner on dirt (5.5f). The winning turf course running styles were a patient runner down the hill, a downhill stalker, a downhill closer, and a flat mile stalker.

Tyler Baze (dirt sprints) and Flavien Prat (downhill sprints) both booted home a pair. Peter Eurton (turf) and Peter Miller both saddled two winners.

First timer Omega Moon was ready to roll in his debut for Baffert but experienced foe Pioneer Lad was a length better (show finisher 6 lengths back). They paid $500k for Omega Moon and he will probably click at low odds next time.

Heavy favorite American Pastime ran out of ground in today’s third race at 5.5f (Stormy Rocit wire-to-wire). The Hess trainee fell a 1/2 length short and was clearly second best. He earned quality TRD numbers in his winning debut March 11 (92 FIRE + 134 CPR) and can make amends next time.

Cistron had every reason to win the Desert Code. He was the only multiple winner and the early/pressing type broke from an advantageous outer post. He opened up a clear lead in the stretch but second timer Arms Runner went past him easily (show finisher 7.5 lengths back). The latter smartly won his April 20 downhill debut (81 FIRE + 126 CPR) and looks like a good one for Miller. 

American Anthem turned back and got back on the beam in the G3 Laz Barrera for Baffert. He easily held off my top choice Kimbear and the top two were both exiting the SA Derby.

Cheekaboomboom loved the turn back in distance and rolled home from off the pace to graduate in the hillside sixth for Prat/Miller. She was my best bet on the card and paid a generous $11.20.

Sunday SANTA ANITA PARK Recap: May 14

Fast main track and firm turf course. Only one wire-to-wire winner on dirt (6f). The winning turf course running styles were a front runner at nine furlongs, a downhill stalker, a stalker at one mile, and a dueler/stalker down the hill (rail at 10 feet).

Flavien Prat booted home a pair on turf. Peter Miller saddled three winners. Richard Baltas saddled two turf winners.

Post time favorite Kenda ended up a clear 2nd behind Madam Dancealot in her first start vs. winners in today’s fourth race. She earned decent TRD numbers graduating down the hill April 21 (81 FIRE + 120 CPR) and was hardly disgraced landing the place behind a horse exiting the stakes ranks. She is a decent downhill performer.

Selcourt dueled and finished 3rd behind two Baffert runners (Faypien, Noted and Quoted) in the Angels Flight. She earned nice TRD Pace Ratings in her first two starts (140, 146) and jockey Tyler Baze said she was too headstrong today. She is going to be a tough customer if she learns to relax a bit.  

Santa Anita Park Horses to Watch Report (April 28-30)

Friday SANTA ANITA PARK Recap: April 28

Fast main track and firm turf course. Only one wire-to-wire winners on dirt (6f). The winning turf course running styles were four stalking winners (10f, 8f, 8f, 9f). The turf rail was set at 20 feet.

Riding double for Rafael Bejarano.

Calli Way prevailed by less than a length as my value top in the grassy 4th. He was making his first start as a gelding after earning better TRD numbers on March 31 (81 FIRE + 122 CPR). He can continue to improve for Baltas.

Check out Today's Racing Digest for handicapping products, analysis, and more! Union Rebel capture above courtesy of Today's Racing Digest.  

Saturday SANTA ANITA PARK Recap: April 29

Fast main track and firm turf course. Two wire-to-wire winners on dirt (7f, 8f). The winning turf course running styles were a closer at one mile, a patient runner at one mile, another flat mile closer, and a dueling front runner at one mile.

Hat trick for Tyler Baze (2 turf wins) included Farhaan in the G3 Thunder Road. Flavien Prat booted home a pair.

I thought Farhaan would outrun his odds after his quality TRD numbers vs. lesser at SA on March 9 (93 FIRE + 158 CPR) but he ran a bit too good overhauling my top Perfectly Majestic in the G3 Thunder Road. The latter has never won at a mile and look out if he runs at a better distance last time. Bolo was overbet and ended up a flat 3rd. He runs better with more time between starts.

Union Rebel is better than his 4th place finish in today’s 8th race at a mile for MSW runners. He was fractious in the gate and away next-to-last. He made a sustained run from the back to get into 3rd and flattened out in the drive. Prior to this event, he was 2nd to the promising Colonist (won again in today’s 5th race) and he earned improved TRD figs in that April 2 affair (90 FIRE + 133 CPR). I’ll definitely consider playing him back.

Sunday SANTA ANITA PARK Recap: April 30

Fast main track and firm turf course. Only one wire-to-wire winners on dirt (6f). The winning turf course running styles were a front runner at one mile, a stalker at twelve furlongs, and a closer at one mile (rail at 10 feet).

Hat trick for Flavien Prat. Rafael Bejarano booted home a pair. Paddy Gallagher saddled two winners including Evo Campo in the G3 Santa Barbara.

Ransom the Moon ran to his sharp works in his first start since December 2016 in today’s 8th race for dirt sprinters. I thought the race would be too short but he was clearly ready to roll for D’Amato. He put up some big all-weather numbers at WO like a 106 FIRE + 157 CPR on 12-14-16 at 9f. He is stakes quality.

Santa Anita Park Report with Horses to Watch (April 20-23)

Thursday SANTA ANITA PARK Recap: April 20

Fast main track and firm turf course. Three wire-to-wire winners on a speed favoring dirt oval (6.5f, 8f, 5.5f). The winning turf course running styles were a patient runner down the hill, a downhill presser, and a downhill stalker (rail at 20 feet).

Joe Talamo rode the early double.

Jill Madden coasted to a wire job maiden win as the heavy favorite in the fourth (Mcl-30k, 8f) but Warrior Vixen is the horse to watch. The latter stalked moderate splits, gained 2nd at the 6f mark, and pulled well clear of the rest (show finisher 9+ back) while cutting into the winning margin in the lane. She can graduate next time with a similar effort.

Friday SANTA ANITA PARK Recap: April 21

Fast main track and firm turf course. Three wire-to-wire winners on dirt (8.5f, 6, 8f). The winning turf course running styles were a stalker at one mile, a patient runner at 12f, and a downhill stalker (rail at 10 feet).

Tyler Baze booted home a pair.

County Lineman raced wide throughout and ended up an okay 3rd as the favorite (beaten 1.5 lengths) in the flat mile turf opener for the productive Bejarano/Cerin team.

Chocolate Coated did well to rally for the place in the hillside finale after a slow start under Stevens. Kenda was the perfect trip stalk/pounce winner as the chalk from the outside post while Chocolate Coated broke from the difficult inside post and was clearly second best.

Saturday SANTA ANITA PARK Recap: April 22

Fast main track and firm turf course. Four wire-to-wire winners on a speed favoring dirt oval (5.5f, 6.5f, 9f, 6f). The winning turf course running styles were a downhill closer (last-to-first), a stalker in the 14f San Juan Capistrano, a stalker at 9f, and a pace prompter in the 6.5f Mizdirection.

Martin Garcia and Bob Baffert teamed up for two wins including Collected in the G2 Californian. Richard Baltas saddled two turf winners including Inordinate in the G3 San Juan Capistrano.

Incredible Luck ran a winning race in the seventh (MSW, 9T). He dueled on the lead and fought hard throughout but eventual winner Marckie’s Water sat a perfect stalking trip and ran him down under Bejarano. The top two were well clear of the rest.

Collected was much the best in the G2 Californian but Follow Me Crev did well to rally for the place on the speed favoring surface. They may meet again in the Gold Cup at SA.

Sunday SANTA ANITA PARK Recap: April 23

Fast main track and firm turf course. Four wire-to-wire winners on dirt (6f, 7f, 8f, 7f). The winning turf course running styles were a front runner at 9f and two downhill stalkers (rail at 20 feet).

Rafael Bejarano booted home a pair. Peter Miller saddled two winners including razor sharp downhill specialist Stormy Liberal in the Siren Lure.

Patentar got back to his winning distance and beat stakes winners Frank Conversation and Up With the Birds in the grassy nine furlong opener. He was my top choice based on his strong Today’s Racing Digest numbers earned in his last SA victory at 9f. 

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Santa Anita Park Recap with Horses to Watch for April 6-9

Thursday SANTA ANITA PARK Recap: April 6

Fast main track and firm turf course. No wire-to-wire winners on dirt. The winning turf course running styles were a patient downhill runner, a dueling front runner down the hill, and a pace presser at 9f (rail at 30 feet).

Tyler Baze and apprentice Evin Roman both booted home a pair. Michael Machowsky saddled two winners.

Sharp Samurai looked good winning the optional claiming turf route feature.

Friday SANTA ANITA PARK Recap: April 7

Fast main track and firm turf course. One dueling front runner scored at 6f on dirt. The winning turf course running styles were a stalker at one mile, a closer at one mile, and a midpack stalker at one mile (rail at 20 feet).

Norberto Arroyo Jr. and Rafael Bejarano both booted home a pair. Mark Glatt saddled two winners.

Smitten Kitten smartly earned her diploma in the fourth race and was claimed for $50,000 by sharp trainer Bill Spawr.

You can read the rest of my Santa Anita Park Report at The Runaway Horse...

Santa Anita Park Recap: March 30 - April 2

Thursday SANTA ANITA PARK Recap: March 30

Fast main track and firm turf course. Only one wire-to-wire winner on dirt (6f). The winning turf course running styles were a downhill stalker, a midpack stalker at 9f, and a front runner at one mile (rail at 20 feet).

Phil D’Amato saddled two winners.

Passion for Papa ran a winning race in the finale but fell a head short. She dueled and held a one-length lead for much of the running only to get tagged on the line by well-back first timer Magical Lucy (claimed by O’Neill). It was 4.5 lengths back to the show finisher.   

Friday SANTA ANITA PARK Recap: March 31

Fast main track and firm turf course. No wire-to-wire winners on dirt. The winning turf course running styles were a patient runner at one mile and a stalker at one mile (rail at 30 feet).

Rafael Bejarano and Flavien Prat both booted home a pair. Jerry Hollendorfer saddled three winners and Prat rode two.

Smokey Image (third race) stalked, dropped back, and came again for the show in his first start in 8+ months (stakes quality allowance sprint). He could look much improved next time.  

You can read the rest of my Santa Anita Park Report at The Runaway Horse...

Santa Anita Park Winter Meet Recap (March 23-26)

Thursday SANTA ANITA PARK Recap: March 23

Fast main track and firm turf course. Three wire-to-wire winners on a speed friendly dirt oval (6.5f, 6f, 5.5f). The winning turf course running styles were a patient runner at one mile, a dueling front runner down the hill, and a stalker at 9f (rail at 20 feet).

Rafael Bejarano booted home a pair and is getting his groove back.

The Bejarano/Cerin combo struck again with Will Tell. They don’t team up often but look out when they do because they are know to cluster together wins.

Friday SANTA ANITA PARK Recap: March 24

Fast main track and firm turf course. Four wire-to-wire winners on the speed favoring main track (8f, 6.5f, 6f, 6f). The winning turf course running styles were a downhill stalker, a downhill front runner, and a downhill presser (rail at 30 feet).

Vladimir Cerin saddled two winners.

You can read the rest of my Santa Anita Park Report at The Runaway Horse...

Santa Anita Park 2017 Winter Meet Rewind (Feb 2-5)

It was a very big week for jockey Flavien Prat with a pair of riding doubles on Thursday-Friday and a four-bagger on Saturday.

Thursday SANTA ANITA PARK Recap: Feb 2

Fast main track and firm turf course. Two wire-to-wire winners on dirt. The winning turf course running styles were a downhill presser, a flat mile stalker, and another stalker at a mile and a half (rail at 20 feet).

Flavien Prat booted home a pair. Richard Baltas saddled two winners including Goodyearforroses in the Astra Stakes at a mile and a half on turf.

Into the Mystic has an uncomfortable trip in the Astra Stakes at 12f. She was wide early from post 10 and wide on the last turn and even wider in the stretch. She faded to 10th and last and can show more at a shorter distance with a better trip next time.

Friday SANTA ANITA PARK Recap: Feb 3

Fast main track and firm turf course. The opening race was moved from the downhill turf course to the main track. Two wire-to-wire winners on dirt (6.5f, 8f). The winning turf course running styles were a patient runner down the hill and a front runner at one mile (rail at 30 feet).

Rafael Bejarano and Flavien Prat booted home a pair.

You can read the rest of my Santa Anita Park Report at The Runaway Horse...

Santa Anita Park 2017 Winter Meet Rewind (Jan 26-29)

The seemingly endless wet weather pattern took a hike and it was sunny and dry for the entire live racing week.

Thursday SANTA ANITA PARK Recap: Jan 26

Fast main track and no turf races carded. Two wire-to-wire winners on dirt (5.5f, 8f).  

Hat trick for Rafael Bejarano. Richard Baltas saddled two winners.

Friday SANTA ANITA PARK Recap: Jan 27

Fast main track and no turf races carded. One wire-to-wire winner at 8.5 furlongs on dirt.  

Santiago Gonzalez booted home the late double. Mark Glatt saddled two winners.

You can read the rest of my Santa Anita Park Report at The Runaway Horse...

Santa Anita Park Track Bias Report (Oct 27-30)

The final week of live racing before the 2016 Breeders' Cup is in the books. Kent Desormeaux was the riding star of the week!

Thursday Santa Anita Recap: October 27

Fast main track and firm turf course at Santa Anita Park. Only one wire-to-wire winner on dirt (one mile). The winning turf course running styles were a patient runner at nine furlongs and a patient runner at one mile (rail at 30 feet).

Kent Desormeaux guided home two winners.

Friday Santa Anita Recap: October 28

Fast main track and firm turf course at Santa Anita Park. Three wire-to-wire winners on dirt (6f, 8,5f, 6f). The lone turf race was captured by a downhill stalker (rail at 30 feet).

Rafael Bejarano guided home three winners. Bob Baffert saddled two winners and Bejarano rode both.

You can read the rest of my Santa Santa Park report at The Runaway Horse...

Santa Anita Park Report (October 14-23)

We are a few weeks into the Santa Anita fall meet and once again it is time to catch up with jockey-trainer leaders + track bias information.

On the jockey front, Rafael Bejarano, Tyler Baze and Tiago Pereira are going great guns, and trainer Bob Baffert unveiled promising juvenile Mastery on Oct 22.

Friday SANTA ANITA Recap: October 14

Fast main track and firm turf course. Two wire-to-wire winners on dirt (6f, 8f). The winning turf course running styles were a stalker at one mile and two stalkers at nine furlongs (rail at 30 feet).

Tyler Baze and Jeff Mullins teamed up for two wins. Richard Baltas saddled two winners.

Saturday SANTA ANITA Recap: October 15

Fast main track and firm turf course. Two wire-to-wire winners on dirt (7f, 8.5f). The winning turf course running styles were a stalker at one mile, a dueling front runner down the hill, and a midpack stalker at one mile (rail at 20 feet).

Two more wins for Tyler Baze (riding doubles Oct 10, Oct 14-15). Bill Spawr saddled two winners.

You can read the rest of my Santa Santa Park report at The Runaway Horse...

Santa Anita Park report (10-12-16)

It is time to catch up with leading jockey, trainer, and track bias information for the current 2016 fall race meeting at Santa Anita Park. Norberto Arroyo Jr. and Peter Miller are off and running!

Friday SANTA ANITA PARK Recap: September 30

Fast main track and firm turf course. Two wire-to-wire winners on dirt (6f, 7f). The winning turf course running styles were a downhill closer, a flat mile stalker, a downhill stalker, and another downhill stalker (rail at 10 feet).

Hat trick for Kent Desormeaux.

Saturday SANTA ANITA PARK Recap: October 1

Fast main track and firm turf course. Early-pressing types strong on dirt with three wire-to-wire winners  (5.5f, 8.5f, 9f). The winning turf course running styles were a flat mile stalker, a flat mile closer, a ten furlong wire job, and a downhill wire job.

Four wins for jockey Victor Espinoza (3 Grade 1 wins). Rafael Bejarano booted home a pair. Bob Baffert saddled two winners.

You can read the rest of my Santa Santa Park report at The Runaway Horse...

Del Mar's Pacific Classic 2016 video preview featuring California Chrome, Beholder, and Dortmund

In case you missed it at The Runaway Horse, here is my Del Mar week 5 recap + Pacific Classic video preview.

Wednesday, August 10

Fast main track and firm turf course. Three wire-to-wire winners on dirt (6f, 6f, 6.5f). The winning turf course running styles were a stalker at five furlongs, a front runner at one mile, a patient runner at one mile, and and a stalker at 8.5f (rail at 30 feet).

Kent Desormeaux, Santiago Gonzalez, and Flavien Prat each booted home a pair.

Thursday, August 11

Fast main track and firm turf course. Two wire-to-wire winners on dirt (8f, 5.5f). The winning turf course running styles were a front runner at one mile, a patient runner at one mile, and and a stalker at five furlongs (rail at 30 feet).

Rafael Bejarano booted home a pair on turf. Mike Puype saddled two winners at one mile on dirt.

Friday, August 12

Fast main track and firm turf course. Only one wire-to-wire winner on dirt (5.5f). The winning turf course running styles were a patient runner at one mile, a stalker at one mile, and a patient runner at five furlongs (rail at 12 feet).

Norberto Arroyo Jr. booted home a pair.

Why Two stalked, pounced, and kicked away to win the Green Flash Handcap by a length and a half for Arroya/Machowsky. My top choice Richard's Boy was 2nd and 55-1 outsider Horse Laugh was up for the show.

Saturday, August 13

Fast main track and firm turf course. Two wire-to-wire winners on dirt (5.5f, 6.5f). The winning turf course running styles were a stalker at 8.5f, a closer at 8.5f, and patient runner at eleven furlongs, and a front runner at nine furlongs (rail at 12 feet).

Santiago Gonzalez guided home four winners. Rafael Bejarano rode three winners and Tyler Baze booted home a pair.

Baffert first timer Big Gray Rocket took a ton of money in the 7th race but blew the break and ended up 2nd behind 14-1 LA-bred debut winner Superior Status (Baze/Mullins). One race later, Baffert the prize he really wanted when Klimt easily captured the G2 Best Pal Stakes over Big League and Thirstforlife.

Sunday, August 14

Fast main track and firm turf course. Two wire-to-wire winners at 5.5 furlongs on dirt. The winning turf course running styles were a front runner at five furlongs, a stalker at one mile, a front runner at one mile, and a stalker at one mile (rail at 12 feet).

Rafael Bejarano and Flavien Prat both booted home a pair.

Bob Baffert was at in again on Sunday with smart debut 2-year-old filly winner American Gal. Fellow first timer Partyinthepaddock was clearly second best and another Baffert firster Facts of Life was along for the show.

My Sunday Best Bet Majestic Heat did not have an easy go of it but she did hold on by a nose from the outside post in the Solana Beach Handicap. 14-1 longshot Tiz a Kiss just missed and second betting choice Singing Kitty checked in 3rd.

Pacific Classic Video Analysis

This is the race we have been waiting for! Defending champion Beholder will take on California Chrome and Dortmund in what figures to be an outstanding renewal of the Pacific Classic. The supporting stakes on Saturday are the G2 Del Mar Handicap and G1 Del Mar Oaks.

The G2 Del Mar Mile on Sunday, Aug 21 wraps up the biggest graded stakes weekend of the meet.

Del Mar week 4 recap: Exciting juveniles Champagne Room, Straight Fire impress

In case you missed it at The Runaway Horse, here is my week four recap from Del Mar.

Wednesday, August 3

Fast main track and firm turf course. Three wire-to-wire winners on dirt (5.5f, 8f, 5.5f). The winning turf course running styles were a patient runner at five furlongs and a stalker sitting in 3rd behind a runaway early leader at one mile (rail at 30 feet).

No riding or training doubles on Wednesday.

Green With Eddie ($4.60) pressed the pace from the outside post and kicked away to post a 3-1/2 length win in the Graduation Stakes for Mario Gutierrez, Doug O'Neill, and Reddam Racing. California Diamond was 2nd and Milton Freewater (also O'Neill) was another length back in 3rd.

Thursday, August 4

Fast main track and firm turf course. Two wire-to-wire winners late in the card (6th and 8th races) on dirt (6f, 5f). The winning turf course running styles were a pace presser at five furlongs and a stalker at a mile and a sixteenth (rail at 30 feet).

Santiago Gonzalez and Wesley Ward teamed up for two turf wins.

Arrogate auditioned for the Travers against two rivals and was a very comfortable 1-3/4 length winner under Rafael Bejarano after sitting at the back of the compact field for the first half-mile or so. The Baffert/Juddmonte runner is lightly raced and talented.

Friday, August 5

Fast main track and firm turf course. Three wire-to-wire winners on dirt (6.5f, 5.5f, 5.5f). The winning turf course running styles were a midpack stalker at 8.5f, an outside stalker at one mile, and an inside stalker at five furlongs (rail at 18 feet).

No riding or training doubles on Friday.

So Sweetitiz stalked and pounced her way to a 4-1 victory in the Daisyutter Handicap under leading rider Flavien Prat. Late Spring got 2nd by a head over Long Hot Summer. Post time favorite and defending champ Shrinking Violet stalked and weakened to finish 7th. She is in foal to American Pharoah.

Saturday, August 6

Fast main track and firm turf course. Only one wire-to-wire winner on dirt (Straight Fire – 6.5f). The winning turf course running styles were a front runner at 8.5f, a stalker at a flat mile, a front runner at one mile, and a front runner at 8.5f (rail at 18 feet).

Kent Desormeaux and Joe Talamo both booted home a pair.

Champagne Room got the better of Miss Southern Miss in the G2 Sorrento with front runner Auntjenn checking in 3rd. The winner was graduating in her second career start and the top two finishers should both get better as distances increase.

Straight Fire put on a show for Team Desormeaux in his fast, romping maiden win at six and one-half furlongs. The aforementioned Sorrento girls stopped the clock in 1:16.35 and the son of Dominus got the same distance in 1:14.94 (98 BSF).

Speed was strong on turf and Free Rose ($59.80) took full advantage in the G3 La Jolla for Talamo/Baltas. Lucky Bryan was 2nd and Moonlight Drive was 3rd. Monster Bea, the upset winner of the Oceanside, ended up an even 4th as the overbet favorite.

Sunday, August 7

Fast main track and firm turf course. No wire-to-wire winners on dirt. The winning turf course running styles were a stalker at five furlongs, a patient runner at 8.5f, and a stalker at one mile (rail at 18 feet). 

Hat trick for Rafael Bejarano.

Noted and Quoted ran into subsequent G2 Sorrento winner Champagne Room in her debut and had no trouble graduating (1st by 9.5 lengths) second time out for Bejarano/Baffert.

Sobradora Inc ($20.40) made her US debut a winning one for Bejarano/Callaghan in a competitive renewal of the Osunitas. The pace fell apart in this one and the winner was able to outfinish Prize Exhibit by a 1/2 length with Elektrum another head back in 3rd.

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If you are interested in full card analysis, I am selling DEL MAR full cards each weekend at The Runaway Horse. You can check out full card recaps with highlights on our What You Missed page.

I also post free daily tickets from DEL MAR at Pick 6 Blog. You can also read my recaps at Pick 6 Blog.  

Photo by Stacy Edwards. 

Del Mar week 3 recap: Stellar Wind beats Beholder and American Cleopatra wins debut

The third week of live racing is in the books at Del Mar and highlights included Stellar Wind upending Beholder in the Clement L Hirsch and American Pharaoh's sister American Cleopatra winning her debut.

Wednesday, July 27

Fast main track and firm turf course. The dirt speed bias that appeared on Sunday, July 17 finally disappeared. There were no wire-to-wire winners on the dirt oval Wednesday. The winning turf course running styles were a stalker at five furlongs and a closer at 8.5 furlongs (rail at 24 feet).

Rafael Bejarano booted home a pair.

Gold Rush Dancer made a smooth transition from turf-to-dirt to capture the Real Good Deal Stakes at odds of 14-1 under jockey Flavien Prat. Tough it Out was 2nd and Mrazek finished 3rd.

I got home the late Pick 4 on July 27 at Pick 6 Blog. The winning .50 cent Late Pick 4 ticket paid $588.55.

Thursday, July 28

Fast main track and firm turf course. Forwardly placed runners performed well on dirt and there was one wire job winner in the 5.5f finale. The winning turf course running styles were a dueling early runner at five furlongs, a patient type at one mile, and another patient runner at eleven furlongs (rail at 24 feet).

I am offering Del Mar weekend full cards and they are available to purchase on The Runaway Horse Sales Page.

I am also posting daily free Del Mar picks on The Runaway Horse Free Picks Page and bonus free Del Mar plays here.

Friday, July 29

Fast main track and firm turf course. Forwardly placed runners performed well on dirt and there was one wire job winner at 5.5f. The winning turf course running styles were a dueling early runner at one mile, a stalker at a mile and a sixteenth, and a front runner at a mile and a sixteenth (rail at 12 feet).

Three wins for leading rider Flavien Prat. Jamie Theriot booted home a pair.

You're Late beat Love a Honeybadger and race favorite My California in the CTBA Stakes. Stewart Elliott rode the winner for Jeff Bonde.

With Honors (Keith Desormeaux) and Elwood J (Jerry Hollendofer) both looked good winning juvenile races on Friday.

Saturday, July 30

Fast main track and firm turf course. Four wire-to-wire winners on dirt (5.5f, 5.5f, 8f, 5.5f). The winning turf course running styles were a patient runner at 9f, a front runner at five furlongs, and a closer at one mile (rail at 12 feet).

Tyler Baze and Victor Espinoza both booted home a pair.

An impressive maiden win turned in by Big League in the 3rd race. What'sontheagenda was a clear 2nd and Blame Joe was up for the show. Peter Miller trains the winner for Rockingham Ranch.

Trainer Jeff Bonde won another 2-year-old filly race with Miss Sunset.

Stellar Wind turned the tables on Beholder in a stellar renewal of the G1 Clement L. Hirsch. Beholder looked like the controlling speed on paper but Victor Espinoza put Stellar Wind in the race earlier and that made all the difference.

Sunday, July 31

Fast main track and firm turf course. Forwardly placed runners performed well on dirt with two wire-to-wire winners (5.5f, 6.5f). The winning turf course running styles were a patient runner at 9f, a stalker at one mile, and a midpack stalker at 5f (rail at 12 feet). 

Stewart Elliott booted home a pair. Bob Baffert saddled three winners and Elliott rode two. 

American Pharoah's juvenile sister American Cleopatra was seemingly dead on the board at 7-1 but that did not stop her from going virtually wire-to-wire and easily graduating in her debut. Everybody was so focused on the winner after the race that they forgot about the excellent effort turned in by runner-up Union Strike. The Union Rags first timer broke slow and showed professionalism while racing along the inside, splitting horses in traffic, and finishing a clear 2nd after finding racing room in the lane.

Lord Nelson sat a perfect outside stalking trip en route to an easy four length score in the G1 Bing Crosby. He has turned into one of the top sprinters in the country for Bob Baffert.

* American Pharoah photo by Stacy Edwards

Del Mar opening week recap (July 15-17)

The Del Mar summer meet is off and running and I will have daily coverage at The Runaway Horse.

Friday DEL MAR Opening Day Recap: July 15 

Fast main track and firm turf course. Two wire-to-wire winners on dirt (5f, 6.5f). All four turf races were nabbed by patient runners (8.5f, 8.5f, 8f, 8f).

Santiago Gonzalez pulled off a hat trick on opening day. Kent Desormeaux booted home a pair of turf route winners. Tyler Baze guided home two winners.

Saturday DEL MAR Recap: July 16

Fast main track and firm turf course. Two wire-to-wire winners on dirt (6f, 7f). The winning turf course running styles were a front runner at 5f, a stalker at a flat mile, a closer at 8.5f, and a stalker at 8.5f.

Victor Espinoza and John Sadler teamed up for two wins. Doug O’Neill saddled two winners.

Sunday DEL MAR Recap: July 17

Fast main track and firm turf course. Five wire-to-wire winners on dirt (6f, 5f, 5f, 6,5f, 5f). The winning turf course running styles were a pace presser at 8.5f, a patient type from midpack at 9f, and a front runner in the 9f Eddie Read.

Rafael Bejarano and Flavien Prat both booted home a pair.

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If you are interested in full card analysis, I am selling DEL MAR full cards each weekend at The Runaway Horse. You can check out full card recaps with highlights on our What You Missed page.

I also post free daily tickets from DEL MAR at Pick 6 Blog. You can also read my recaps at Pick 6 Blog.  

Photo by Stacy Edwards. 

Closing week at Santa Anita Park (July 8-10)

The Santa Anita Park spring/summer meet came to a close on Sunday, July 10 and despite stiff competition from Flavien Prat, Rafael Bejarano captured another riding title. Phil D'Amato ran away with the top trainer trophy. 

Friday Santa Anita Park Recap: July 8

Five wire job winners on the fast main track (5f, 8.5f, 7f, 6.5f, 6f).

Tiago Pereira and Phil D’Amato teamed up for two wins.

Saturday Santa Anita Park Recap: July 9

Two wire-to-wire winners on the fast main track (5f, 7f).

Apprentice Chad Lindsay and Flavien Prat both booted home a pair.

Horse to Watch: SILVER ASSAULT - The Jerry Hollendorfer trainee had a bad start in the SA Juvenile and ended up rallying wide for the show. He would have been much closer with a clear start. 

Sunday Santa Anita Park Recap: July 10

Two wire-to-wire winners on the fast main track (5f, 7f).  

Tyler Baze and Rafael Bejarano both booted home a pair. Training doubles for Richard Baltas, Bob Baffert, and Bill Spawr.    

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If you are interested in full card analysis, I am selling DEL MAR full cards each weekend at The Runaway Horse. You can check out full card recaps with highlights on our What You Missed page.

I also post free daily tickets from DEL MAR at Pick 6 Blog. You can also read my recaps at Pick 6 Blog.  

Santa Anita Park photos by Stacy Edwards.