HorseRacing-selections.com Racing Blog

Trainer Robert Frankel has been rumored for months to have been ill and on deaths door. Not seen at the race track in months, he was said to have been sick and handling his stable of horses from his home. So it was of no surprise to have heard of his passing this morning. He was discharged from the hospital this weekend so that he could spend the remaining hours at his home at his request. He was a great trainer who over the years trained some great horses. Click on this link to read DRF story on his life. http://drf.com/news/article/108964.html ... With the 2009 Breeders' Cup in the books, winter has begun to set in here in Southern California. It was quite nice to have had a little break of four days between Oak Tree and Hollywood Park.

The week in review at Hollywood Park ...

Friday's opening day card (11/13) saw the opening day card run without anything noteworthy to report.

Saturday's card (11/14) saw Bestdressed (8th) take home the winners share of the $75,000 On Trust Handicap purse for trainer John Sadler under Joel Rosario. Winning for the 6th time in 38 lifetime starts, the gelded son of Lit de Justice ended a winless drought of eight straight races.

Sunday's card (11/15) saw trainer Jerry Hollendorfer unleash a potential good one in the 7th race with She's Funomenal under Joel Rosario who's off to a good start at the meeting. The daughter of Fusaichi Pegasus drew off for an easy win, but was no secrets at the window as the filly paid $5. Follow this one up the ladder. Pick 6 carryover of $86,204 into Wednesday's card.

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Many race fans including myself had thought Rachel Alexandra was a lock for 2009 Horse of the Year. Until Saturday. Zenyatta was just as impressive leading up to the Breeders' Cup Classic. A perfect 13 for 13 in her lifetime. But instead of having beaten the boys, Zenyatta had taken her turns on the same old fillies and mares, basically in her own backyard. That all changed Saturday when she took on perhaps the best ever Classic field and toyed with them, geared down and drawing away at the finish. Now, we have a legitimate Horse of the Year race and both the filly and the mare are worthy of winning the award. It's really a shame both can't as they have both have done so much for the sport of racing. If we had a vote, well, we need to really think on this one but after Saturday, we'd have to go for Zenyatta. ... "We love the Breeders' Cup," when asked by a friend about the two days of racing, the full fields and the quality of racing. But we love the $12k claimers just as much and just wish that we had the same 11-12 horse fields we had on Friday and Saturday. Besides, the $12k claimers are perhaps easier to handicap because you know going in that there are simply some horses that just can't win. Due to either physical limitations or trainers prepping for a race in two weeks or so, in the Breeders' Cup races everybody is trying to win "that" race. Plus, you have invaders and shippers from all over which you haven't seen race. New riders, new faces, trainers, owners, etc. It makes for tough handicapping to be sure and lots of time invested trying to watch video tape. While it's far from easy handicapping the Breeders' Cup, there are rewards if you are correct as the payoffs tend to be inflated with generous mutuel pools. But when all is said and done after the two days it was fun. But bring us back the $12.5 claimers! ...

The week in review at Oak Tree ...

Wednesday's action (11/04) saw Connemara (7th) take home the winners share of the $40,000-added Allowance race purse under Garret Gomez for trainer Todd Pletcher. The invading son of Giant's Causeway is now 2 for 2 and seemed to handle the synthetic course once again just fine. Perhaps this colt will remain in SoCal. The winner paid $3.40.

Thursday's card (11/05) saw trainer Bob Baffert unveil Gilded Gem (1st), a daughter of Smarty Jones who was making her debut under Victor Espinoza. This filly paid a nice $15.20 and should be followed down the road as she won nicely and perhaps has a bright future ahead of her. ... Ever a Friend (7th) looked awesome in his return win here under Tyler Baze for trainer Mike Mitchell. In his first start since May 2008, the 6-year-old gelded son of Crafty Friend paid $4 to his backers and should be heard from again.

Friday's card (11/06) Breeders' Cup Ladies Day saw Life Is Sweet (8th) take down the Grade I $2,000,000 Breeders' Cup Ladies Classic under Garret Gomez. Without the presence of Zenyatta, 'Sweet paid an astounding $18.20.

Saturday's card (11/07) saw California Flag (3rd) take down the Breeders' Cup Turf Sprint at $8.80 for trainer Brian Koriner under Joe Talamo, who is the second youngest jockey to win a Breeders' Cup race. ... The day belonged to her connections and Zenyatta who took the Grade I $5,000,000 Breeders' Cup Classic under Mike Smith for trainer John Shireffs. Remaining undefeated at 14 for 14, this was probably the last time this star daughter of Street Cry will be seen on the race track. What a way for her to go out.

Sunday's card (11/08) closing day at Oak Tree saw Paddy's Magic (7th) keep his win streak alive at $5.40 for trainer Howard Zucker under Joel Rosario. The gelded son of Wild Zone has now won two straight and made his turf debut here a winning one. The $58,000-added Cascapedia (8th) went to Kays and Jays for trainer Mike Mitchell. The invading daughter of Macho Uno from Florida was ridden by Joel Rosario to pay $5.40 to her backers.

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Mine That Bird drilled five furlongs in 1:01.49 with Joe Talamo in the irons Monday morning and by all accounts the 3-year-old colt looked much better and comfortable today than he had leading up to his last race, The Goodwood Stakes last month. Clockers were impressed today and perhaps a big effort is forthcoming on Saturday. Also, drillers on Monday included Colonel John, getting five furlongs in :59.22 and Richard's Kid got his 5 furlongs in 1:01.11. Connections of all three Classic entrants were happy with the moves.

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The Breeders' Cup post position draw is set for Tuesday and of course all eyes are set on the classic. Still no official word as to if Zenyatta will go in the Ladies Classic on Friday or the Classic on Saturday. Zenyatta drilled on Saturday and was impressive while working in 1:12.40 with regular rider Mike Smith aboard. Rumors have been circulating all week that the mare will go in the Classic.

The week in review at Oak Tree ...

Wednesday's card (10/28) saw the card run without anything noteworthy to report.

Thursday's card (10/29) saw the card run without anything noteworthy to report.

Friday's card (10/30) saw Hermione's Magic (7th) win for the second time from four starts in the U.S. for trainer Kathy Walsh under Garret Gomez. The 3-year-old filly is a cut below the best around these parts but the daughter of Systematic is quite capable of paying her way and should be followed. Pick 6 carryover into Saturday's card of $74,471.


Saturday's card (10/31) saw the card run without anything noteworthy to report.

Sunday's card (11/01) saw trainer Bob Baffert turn lose a nice 4-year-old in the 2nd race under Rafael Bejarano at $4.60. The son of Fusaichi Pegasus turned in a sharp maiden win in his debut from the rail and should be followed off this maiden win. ... The $58,000-added Anoakia was taken by Crisis of Spirit at $2.80 for Bob Baffert under Mike Smith. Another nice 2-year-old from the Baffert stable. ... When You Can Dream took down the 4th race it was the 4th win in a roll for trainer Bob Baffert.

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With a little over two weeks remaining, the 2009 Breeders' Cup is fast approaching. All eyes are on what Breeders' Cup race the Champion Zenyatta will run in. ...Is it true that Breeders' Cup officials are happy with the result of the World Series matchups? Not having a California or L.A. based team in the Series is rumored to have the Breeders' Cup officials smiling.

The week in review at Oak Tree ...

Wednesday's card (10/21) saw Pemba At U.T.K. (4th) run his 0'fer streak to 18 now as a  maiden. Perhaps his connections need to try this colt on the lawn? Being by Skimming (Nureyev) you would have thought this would have been tried already! Interesting. ... Nice win here by Obrigado (7th) at $6.40 for trainer Neil Drysdale and jockey Joel Rosario. The Grade III winner was allowed to go off at a nice price here and looked good winning in this much softer spot than he had been in recently.

Thursday's card (10/22) saw a Pick 6 carryover of $54,959 carry into Friday's pool.

Friday's card (10/23) saw Bel Air Sizzle take down the 7th race at $15.80. The Barry Abrams trained runner was given a well timed ride here by Joe Talamo and was winning for the 6th time in 28 lifetime starts.

Saturday's card (10/24) saw the Grade III Harold Ramser Handicap (8th) go to April Pride under jock Garret Gomez for trainer James Cassidy. The winner paid a nice $17.80 to her backers and was winning for the second time in the U.S. since her arrival here for Great Britain. This was her third career win from 14 lifetime starts.

Sunday's card (10/25) saw Raidng Party win the first race at $3.80. Trained by Mike Mitchell and given a well timed ride by Joel Rosario, the daughter of Orpen should be followed down the road now as this filly is sharp now.

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It's no secret we are having a slow Santa Anita meeting. Hitting just below 20% for winners, we have also blanked in the late Pick 4 department all of which we are hoping to reverse this week. Wednesday's card looks pretty promising. ... Jockey Kyle Kaenel has announced his retirement this morning, following a spill resulting in injuries at Fairplex Park. With a broken collar bone and injured wrist, Kaenel was advised by doctors that if he sustained another spill and injuries similar in nature, he may be confined to a wheel chair the rest of his life. It was also said that Kaenel sustained some minor nerve damage and injuries to his back and spine area.

The week in review at Santa Anita ...

Wednesday's card (10/14) saw Marcello (3rd) win for the second time in his career with a good looking win here under Garret Gomez. Trained by Bob Baffert, the son of Johannesburg (Hennessy) beat a pretty decent allowance field and should be followed up the ladder off that impressive win. ... Carryover in the Super High 5 pool for Thursday of $29,051.40.

Thursday's card (10/15) saw nothing newsworthy to report here. Pick 6 carryover of $47,855 into Friday's card.

Friday's card (10/16) saw another disappointing effort by No Ka Oi (1st) who we thought could break through here. The 6-year-old mare is now 0 for 12 this season and appears to be really off her game right now for trainer Jack Carava.

Saturday's card (10/17) Via Verde (4th) broke his maiden nicely at $3 for trainer John Sadler under Joel Rosario. The 2-year-old son of Cherokee Run (Runaway Groom) proved quite gritty down the lane to repel his rivals. We get the feeling he could go on with a pretty decent career on the lawn off this win and should be followed through his conditions. ... The Grade III $100,000 Senator Ken Maddy Handicap (8th) was taken by Gotta Have Her who was winning her second in a roll for trainer Jenine Sahadi under Tyler Baze. The daughter of Royal Academy (Nijinsky II) got a ground saving ride at the rail by Baze who seems to have a way with her.

Sunday's card (10/18) saw Shadow of Illinois (5th) win again for his 9th career win from 39 lifetime starts. The 9-year-old gelding is ultra sharp right now and trainer Anthony Saavedra has down a wonderful job keeping this veteran cal-bred together. Lets give credit to veteran rider Alex Solis who also seems to have a way with this guy. ... The $60,000 Lure was won by Blue Chagall for trainer Julio Canani under jockey Garret Gomez. Returning $6.80 to his backers, the 4-year-old gelding was winning for the 4th time in 15 career efforts.

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The connections of Zenyatta announced on Monday morning that they were delaying a decision for as long as possible on what race to run Zenyatta in next as they map out her course in the Breeders' Cup. Perhaps a start in the Ladies Classic on Friday or a start in the Classic vs. the boys on Saturday. Her connections announced it's possible she could be pre-entered in both races until the final decision is made. Of course we'd love to see her start vs. the boys on Saturday to see what she is really made of and we strongly feel she'd be able to handle 'em off what we have seen. Heck, she'd even have home court advantage over a track she adores. ... For those that thought Barry Abrams has a screw loose the trainer himself may have confirmed it Sunday when he announced his mare, Lethal Heat may run in the Breeders' Cup on back to back days. Yes, you heard us correctly. Abrams may run in the Ladies Classic on Friday and then wheel Lethal Heat back on Saturday in the Turf Sprint. "I'll probably run her in both" he stated on Sunday. If he does this, Lethal Heat who is 6 for 16 with career earnings of $655,988 may end her career on Breeders' Cup weekend. Sad story indeed from a trainer that obviously is taking advantage of huge purse money and a huge score without weighing what the end result may be to his horse. ... Rain is falling in Southern California on Tuesday A.M. and we hope that it will tighten up the Pro-Ride synthetic course a bit. The track, once again this season has been a bit hard to predict with both trainers and jockeys not real happy with the surface. ... Could it be that Mine That Bird is another 50/1 horse that won the Kentucky Derby and won't go on to win another race like Giacomo did? We hope not but by judging the way he ran in the Goodwood over the weekend people are talking about it. We hope not. We have grown rather fond of the connections who have displayed nothing but class since the Derby win and hope that perhaps he'll try a regular dirt surface next time.

The week in review from Oak Tree ...

Wednesday's card (10/07) saw the Julio Canani trained Black Bear Island (7th) make his local debut as the odds on favorite and fail to kick it in as expected. The result was a dull try resulting in the trainer having to go back to the drawing board for his next start.

Thursday's card (10/08) was run without anything newsworthy to report.

Friday's action (10/09) saw Tribul Witch (3rd) improve some more for trainer Julio Canani under Jose Valdivia but exits the race as a maiden still. The daughter of Tribal Rule (Storm Cat) is still as green as grass and her lugging in and shifting about cost her the win here. ...  Pick 6 carryover of $78,530 and Super High 5 carryover of $31,739 into Saturday's pool.

Saturday's card (10/10) saw Magical Fantasy take down the Grade I $300,000 Yellow Ribbon. Trained by Paddy Gallagher and ridden by Alex Solis, the winner paid $4.40 and added to her career bankroll of over $859k. ... The $350,000 Grade I Goodwood was taken by upsetter Gitano Hernando for trainer Marco Botti and returned $38 to his backers. The 3-year-old son of Hernando took to the synthetic course and held off a late rally from Colonel John. Mine That Bird was never involved while making a mild late rally. ... The Grade I $300,000 Lady's Secret was won by Zenyatta who is now a perfect 13 for 13. Her connections are now eying both Breeders' Cup Classics and will make a last minute decision as to what race she'll go in. ... Two day Super High 5 carryover of $136,726.23 into Sunday's pool.

Sunday's card (10/11) saw the Grade I $300,000 Clement L. Hirsch Memorial Turf Championship go to Presious Passion at $4.60. The invading son of Royal Anthem (Theatrical) won impressively over the turf course and added to his impressive bankroll of over $1.85 million. he is trained by Mary Hartmann. ... The Grade I $300,000 Ancient Title was won by Gayego for trainer Saeed bin Suroor under Garret Gomez. gayego was winning for the 7th time in 13 lifetime trips to the gate and paid $4.40 to his backers.

Monday's special Holiday card (10/12) saw Zardana take the $60,000-added Swingtime under Victor Espinoza for trainer John Shirreffs. Returning $5.80 to her backers, the daughter of Crimson Tide was notching up career win number 6 from 15 lifetime starts. ... The $65,000-added Louis Rowan was won in impressive fashion by Free Flying Soul under Mike Smith for trainer Bruce Headley. Returning to her backs $5.40, this classy lady by Quiet American is now 3 for 7 lifetime and should be followed up the ladder off this impressive win.

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Wagering in the U.S was down 1% when compared with September 2008 figures. Total wagering was down $883.4 million from last year. Not surprising in this economic climate to be sure. Purse distribution was also down 6.1% the same period.

Oak Tree week in review ...

Wednesday's card (09/30) saw California Flag take down the Grade III $100,000 Morvich Handicap (8th) under jockey Joe Talamo for trainer Brian Koriner. The 5-year-old gelding will be seen next in the Breeders' Cup if all goes as planned and he returned $5.20 to his backers. Pick 6 carryover of $87,781.03 into Thursday's card and $32,651.87 into the Super High 5 pool thanks to Spartan jet winning the nitecap at $157.60.

Thursday's card (10/01) carried over $278,277 into Friday's Pick 6. Now a two day carryover.

Friday's card (10/02) had a later post of 2:00 P.M. and saw $31,822 carry into the Super High 5 pool for Saturday. Otherwise, nothing else newsworthy to report.

Saturday's card (10/03) was California Cup Day and attendance, handle and purses were down of course due to economics. The CTBA (California Thoroughbred Breeders' Association) needs to re-think this day and perhaps make an adjustment next year if they want to continue putting on this California day of racing. With short fields being offered and the lowest total attendance ever, it's safe to say interest is dwindling. Bold Chieftain took down the 6th race, The $200,000 California Cup Classic at $10 for trainer William Morey and jock Russell Baze. The son of Seattle Slew was winning for the 13th time in 31 lifetime efforts.

Sunday's card (10/04) saw Lookin At Lucky win the 8th race, the Grade I Norfolk Stakes for trainer Bob Baffert and jock Garret Gomez. returning $3.60 for the win, the son of Smart Strike (Mr. Prospector) is on the road to the Breeders' Cup, and perhaps a date in May 2010 for the Kentucky Derby. This is one nice and very talented colt.

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Oak Tree opens the doors on Wednesday for a month long meet that will include the 2009 Breeders' Cup. ... Placing judges at Belmont Park paid off the wrong superfecta in last Thursday's 9th race when the incorrect number was posted for the 4th place finisher. The wrong payout was paid out for approximately 2 minutes and 49 seconds until officials caught the mistake and suspended payouts for approximately 25 minutes. ... Champion Zenyatta's career may not be over following her appearance in the 2009 Breeders' Cup it was announced last Thursday. A campaign for her could be mapped out before she heads to the breeding shed in 2010. ... Johnny Eves has been retired with an injury to his suspensory according to trainer Jay Robbins. It's planned the 5-year-old gelding will be given some time off before he begins a new career as a hunter-jumper. ... Mine That Bird and jockey Calvin Borel will once again be reuniting for the Goodwood Stakes at Santa Anita to be run on October 10th. ... Also recently retired equine stars are Afleet Eagle and Excessive Blend. Afleet Eagle is headed to be a riding horse and Excessive Blend will be bred early next year. ... Numbers for the recently concluded Keeneland sale have shown a sharp decline, as much as 41%. Fairplex Park, still working on their meeting numbers have also announced that a sharp decline in attendance and handle will be reported. ... Kyle Kaenel suffered a broken collarbone in a riding accident at Fairplex Park on Sunday. Kaenel had been off to a slow start since arriving in Southern California but had been showing some signs of life while winning a few races at Fairplex. He had been named on a few horses at Oak Tree on Opening Day. No word yet as to how long he'll be out of action.

The week in review at Fairplex Park ...

Wednesday's card (09/23) saw Lit'sgoodlookngray take down the $50,000 Governor's Cup (11th) under veteran rider Agdapito Delgadillo for trainer R.B. Hess. The 5 year-old gelding was able to hold off the late charge of Big Bad Leroybrown and secure the win ...

Thursday's card (09/24) saw the race card run without anything noteworthy to report.

Friday's card (09/25) saw the win machine mule, Bar JF Hot Ticket (1st) win for the 33rd time in her 39th lifetime start. With a win streak in tact now of 11 straight, the 6-year-old mare is trained by Ray Thomas and paid $2.20 to her backers. ... The $50,000 Palomares was taken by the Jerry Hollendorfer trained Kaweah Princess under David Flores and returned $6.60. The 3-year-old filly was notching up career win number 4 from seven lifetime trips to the post. ...

Saturday's card (09/26) saw Made for Magic take the $50,000 Las Madrinas (9th) for trainer A.C. Avila and jockey Omar Berrio. The winner returned $17.60. ... The $50,000 Pomona Derby (11th) was won by Quindici Man for Craig Lewis under Victor Espinoza and paid $8 to his backers.

Sunday's card (09/27) saw the $100,000 Ralph M. Hinds Invitational Handicap go to Z Humor for trainer Mike Mitchell and rider Martin Garcia. The upset winner paid $28.20 to his backers.

Monday's closing day card (09/28) saw the race card run without anything noteworthy to report.

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At first, we were a bit taken back to hear from our sources that Lava Man was scheduled to work at Hollywood Park on Wednesday morning. We figured it was either a misspelling of a horses name or simply just a typo. But when the 8-year-old gelding did take to the track and work 3 furlongs in :36 we were a big puzzled to say the least. After under-going treatment for stem-cell therapy where healthy tissue is extracted from a horse's bone marrow or fat and then is injected into the injury site, Lava Man has been progressing nicely and is ready for a return to the races. What? According to Lava man's trainer, Doug O'Neil, "He's been in training for three or four months and they have been raving about him. He's been telling us don't send me to Kentucky (Kentucky Horse Farm). This horse wants to train." Yeah, okay. This Champion 8-year-old gelding should continue his retirement and not have his accomplishments tarnished by this nonsense. What level could he compete at? Do his connections really feel that he can compete at the top again or is this a sign of the economic times that they want to earn some cash and try a comeback? Wow! ... Summer Squall the 1990 Preakness winner who sired the Horse of the Year Charismatic was euthanized at 22 this past Tuesday ... El Prado, the 20-year-old son of Sadler's Wells died this past Monday from an apparent heart attack in his paddock ... Mine That Bird breezed a half-mile in :47.95 between races Monday at the Downs at Albuquerque. He is scheduled to van out to Santa Anita where he is next scheduled to start in the Grade I $350,000 Goodwood on October 10th.

The Week in Review from Fairplex Park ...

Wednesday's card (09/16) saw Gallant Gent (10th) chalk up another win for trainer Craig Lewis under Martin Pedroza. This gelded son of Yankee Gentleman has proven to be a nice claim since being taken out of a $40k maiden race by his current connections. Gallent Gent was winning for the third time in four starts and paid $3.60.

Thursday's card (09/17) saw the first two mule races cancelled due to a medication foul up. Management announced to horsemen that these races would be made up later in the meeting.

Friday's card (09/18) saw L'Aziza become the first two race winner at the meeting for trainer Patrick Biancone when winning the 6th race at $7.20. ... The $50,000 Bustles and Bows was taken by Fairway Road at $5.60 for trainer Craig Dollase under Alonso Quinonez at $5.60.

Saturday's card (09/19) saw the $115,000 Barretts Debutante fall to Judge Joan for trainer Jeff Mullins under Aaron Gryder at $20. The daughter of Chief Seattle improved greatly in her second career start. Pick 6 carryover of $37,432 into Sunday's card.

Sunday's card (09/20) saw $115,000 Barretts Juvenile go to Seattle Ruler at $15.80 for trainer Mike Harrington and jockey Martin Garcia. The winner, a maiden going in, was winning for the first time in six lifetime starts for her connections.

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The fresh smell of corn dogs, cotton candy, chili, B-B-Q ribs and just about anything else you can imagine filled the air this week at the Los Angeles County Fair. Racing from Fairplex Park began on September 10. If you haven't had a chance to witness racing from Fairplex Park you really should as it's an exciting meeting to be sure. Also, for handicappers, the track does play very fair, unlike the bi-polar surface at Del Mar which can change from day to day or race to race.

The week in review ...

Final day of racing at Del Mar (09/09) saw Cost of Freedom (3rd) finally come off the vets list in the $85,000-added Pirate's Bounty. Wonder what all the wait was for? So are we as the son of Cee's Tizzy faded badly in the lane. This was a race he likely needed but still, we were anticipating much more from this John Sadler trained gelding in this return spot. ... El Gato Malo (5th) posted a stunner at $35.80 in his first start since April 3. Once considered a Derby contender, the son of El Corredor looked good in his win under David Flores for trainer Craig Dollase. ... Keep an eye on M One Rifle (7th) who should be followed up the ladder. This Bruce Headley trained gelding won again quite nicely and is now three for four lifetime. ... The Grade II $200,000 Palomar Handicap was taken by Gotta Have Her at $8.80 for trainer Jenine Sahadi under Tyler Baze.

Thursday's opening day card at Fairplex Park (09/10) was contested without anything newsworthy to report. Pick 6 carryover of $22,715 into Friday's card.

Friday's card (09/11) saw the $50,000 Jim Kostoff taken by All Saint at $29.80 for trainer Triphon Dahl. The morning line favorite J P Jammer was scratched in the a.m.

Saturday's card (09/12) saw the $50,000 E. B. Johnston taken by Smooth Performer (11th) at $12.60 for trainer Clifford Sise under Martin Pedroza.

Sunday's card (09/13) was run without anything newsworthy to report. Pick 6 carryover of $44,782 and a Super High 5 carryover of $18,794 into Wednesday's card.

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Okay, what is there left to be said? After her historical win in Saturday's Woodward at Saratoga, Rachel Alexandra has now beat the girls and boys in her division, beat older males, won all over the U.S. in doing so and in Graded Company. Again, what is there left to be said? After watching her win on Saturday, I was left with goose-bumps. This very special filly not only did all the work while setting suicidal early fractions, she repeatedly fought back all challengers through the lane and still had enough left to win. If she didn't seal up 2009 Horse of the Year with the win on Saturday, I'm not too sure what is needed to win the award. ... The Los Angeles County Fairgrounds will open the Fairplex Park meeting on Thursday and it will be nice to be back on a real dirt surface again, even if it is for only 13 days. While the racing surface at Del Mar was a bit better this meeting, there were still ample breaksdowns and injuries to cause people to wonder why the synthetics were put in place to begin with. The tracks "bi-polar" tendencies were still in place, with speed being favored one day and rally wide the next. Not something that is viewed with a lot of enthusiasm with serious handicappers. ... With closing day at Del Mar on Wednesday and opening day at Fairplex Park right away on Thursday, lets get to work!

The week in review at Del Mar ...

Wednesday's card (09/02) saw Camille C looked good winning the $100,000-added Generous Portion (8th) under Rafael Bejarano for trainer Marcelo Polanco. The Roman Dancer filly paid $12.20 to her backers and was winning for the second time from six lifetime efforts.

Thursday's action (09/03) saw Queen Ofthe Catsle take down the $85,000 Daisycutter Handicap (7th) for trainer Howard Zucker under veteran rider Mike Smith. Making her return off a two month vacation, the daughter of Tale of the Cat paid $7.60 for her 7th career win. ... Pick 6 carryover of $91,515 into Friday's card.

Friday's card (09/04) saw the ultra speedy Carlsbad regain her winning ways when she wired her rivals in the Grade III $200,000 Rancho Bernardo Handicap for trainer Jeff Mullins under regular rider Tyler Baze. Returning $4.80 to her backers, this is one special Arizona-bred as you don't see too many Graded-winners coming from that state. ... Two day Pick 6 carryover of $418,744 into Saturday's card.

Saturday's card (09/05) saw the speedy Grazen wire the $100,000 El Cajon field under Garret Gomez for trainer Mike Mitchell. Paying $4.60, the son of Benchmark was allowed to roll early, unlike his last trip, and cruised home for the victory. ... Another solid win by Mi Sueno in the Grade I $300,000 Darley Debutante for trainer Eric Guillot under Michael Baze. The daughter of Pulpit was winning for the second time in only four lifetime tries and appears to have a very bright future ahead of her. She paid $4.

Sunday's card (09/06) saw Zensational take another step closer to the Breeders' Cup Sprint when winning the Grade I $300,000 Pat O'Brien (4th) for Bob Baffert and jock Victor Espinoza. Paying $2.60 to his backers, the son of Unbridled's Song (Unbridled) is on the top of his game right now and was very impressive in his win here. ... Rendezvous took down the Grade II $350,000 Del Mar Derby (6th) for trainer Jerry Hollendorfer under leading jockey Joel Rosario. The upset winner returned $46 to his backers. ... The Grade I $1-million Pacific Classic went to Richard's Kid for trainer Bob Baffert under Mike Smith. The son of Lemon Drop Kid paid $50.80 for the win and was able to get up in time with a well timed ride by Smith. This race has truly become a graveyard for post time favorites. ... Pick 6 carryover of $427,333 into Monday's Holiday racing action.

Monday's card (09/07) saw Briecat take home the winners share of the $85,000-added purse in the Adoration (3rd). Trained by Vladimir Cerin and ridden by Martin Garcia, Briecat returned $8 to her backers and trainer Cerin was heard saying after the race they may take on Zenyatta next. Good luck with that. ... John Scott is still undefeated as he took down the $100,000-added I'm Smokin (6th) for trainer Carla Gaines under Victor Espinoza. The son of Bertrando looked very good winning from the rail slot and appears to have a bright future ahead of himself here. ... Speaking of bright futures, Indian Firewater looked good winning the 7th race and broke his maiden in the process. The son of Indian Charlie paid $3.20 and was ridden nicely by Garret Gomez. Follow this guy up the ladder to be sure. ... Three for three is how Lookin At Lucky stands after winning the Grade I $300,000 Del Mar Futurity (8th) for trainer Bob Baffert under Garret Gomez. $4 for his winning effort, the son of Smart Strike had no problems with the rail post and just may be an early favorite for the 2010 Kentucky Derby. He certainly hails from the right connections.

Good luck this week at the races and don't forget to sign up with us now for winning information at http://www.horseracing-selections.com

Once again, the synthetic track at Del Mar has played more like someone needing prozac for bi-polar disorder. The Del Mar track has favored speed one day, and then rally-wide types the next. Like the changing weather, it's been very tough to figure out which has led to numerous Pick 6 carryovers this meeting. ...Summer Bird flew out from underneath the shadow of Kentucky Derby winner Mine That Bird Saturday with a surprisingly easy 3 1/2-length victory in the Grade I $1-million Travers Stakes at sloppy Saratoga. Summer Bird covered the 1 1/4 miles in 2:02.83 in the slop and returned $7.80 as the second choice. ... Jockey Calvin Borel will be back aboard the gelding Mine That Bird for his next two starts - the $350,000 Goodwood Stakes on Oct. 10 and the $5 million Breeders' Cup Classic on Nov. 7 - trainer Chip Woolley confirmed Monday morning. ...Trainer Ron Ellis was upset after Rail Trip, the Hollywood Gold Cup winner, worked a mile in 1:36 here on Sunday morning in preparation for the Grade 1, $1 million Pacific Classic this Sunday. By late Monday morning, though, the fog was starting to lighten, and so was Ellis's mood. "He's great," Ellis said. "He's doing very, very well. He did it easy. Hopefully we didn't leave his race on the racetrack. He doesn't act like it." ... Rachel Alexandra drilled in :49.09 for a half-mile Monday morning in preparation for Saturday's Grade I Woodward at Saratoga. The filly is all set to go.

The week in review at Del Mar ...

Wednesday's card (08/26) saw the $85,000-added Harry F. Brubaker (8th) go to Skyrush at $25.20 for trainer Darrell Vienna, under jockey Martin Pedroza. Making his first start in the U.S. since arriving from Argentina, the 4-year-old son of Orpen (Lure) was along in time to post the upset win. He looked plenty good winning, and should be followed in future starts. ... Pick 6 carryover of $777,352 into Thursday's card.

Thursday's card (08/27) saw Forbidden Paradise (5th) take her local debut while returning $7.40 to her backers. Trained by David Hofman and ridden by Brice Blanc, the daughter of Chineur (Fasliyev) posted the nose, gutty win over runner-up Warren's Jitterbug. Nice job by trainer Hofmans for getting this filly ready.

Friday's card (08/28) saw the $85,000-added CTT and Thoroughbred Owners of California Handicap (8th) fall to Black Mamba who returned $3.60 for trainer John Sadler and jockey Mike Smith. ... Pick 6 carryover of $116,087 into Saturday's card.

Saturday's card (08/29) saw Ferneley (8th) take the Grade II Del Mar Mile Handicap at $17.20. Rolling home late in the lane under Joel Rosario for trainer Ben Cecil, the 5-year-old was upsetting the race favorite Monterey Jazz who turned in a dull try at 4/5.

Sunday's action (08/30) saw Spring House take the Grade II $250,000 Del Mar Handicap as the Julio Canani trained gelding successfully defended his 2008 title. Ridden perfectly by jockey Alex Solis, the son of Chester House was up in the final jump and defeated Sir Dave. ... Pick six carryover of $168,634 and Super High Five carryover of $46,815 into Wednesday's card.

The connections of Rachel Alexandra announced today that she will take on older males in the Grade 1 Woodward at Saratoga on Sept. 5. The New York Racing Association announced Monday that the purse of the Woodward would be raised from $500,000 to $750,000. A win in the Grade I Woodward would all but cinch Horse of the Year honors for Rachel. ... Jockey Tyler Baze is expected to be out of action for at least a week due to a broken little finger on his left hand. Baze, 26, injured the finger when his mount on Saturday, R. Bee Ess broke free and ran off as the horses were being loaded into the gate resulting in his late scratch. ... Another horse was euthanized at Del Mar this morning during training hours, bring the total fatalities to 11 since the track began it's meeting on July 22.

The week in review at Del Mar ...

Wednesday's card (08/19) saw California Flag (8th) take down the winners share of the $85,000-added Green Flash Handicap. The speedy son of Avenue of Flags (Seattle Slew) won the 5 furlong dash over the lawn under Joe Talamo for trainer Brian Koriner. California Flag paid $4 to his backers.

Thursday's card (08/20) saw the veteran Big Bad Leroybrown take the second race at $9.80 for trainer Don Warren and jockey Tyler Baze. The son of Wild Again ran down the race favorite Usurp late to post his fifth win from 25 lifetime starts.

Friday's card (08/21) saw Emba U.T.K. take the 6th at $100.20 for trainer Herbert Ho. The 3-year-old filly was making her tenth career start with 3 third place finishes to her credit. ... The $85,000-added Sandy Blue Handicap was taken by Excessive Blend (8th) for trainer Carla Gaines under Joe Talamo. The 3-year-old filly by In Excess (Siberian Express) was winning for the 3rd time in 5 lifetime efforts. She paid $10.40 to her backers. ... Pick 6 carryover of $110,298 and Super High 5 carryover of $42,448 into Saturday's card.

Saturday's card (08/22) saw a very promising colt break his maiden in the 7th when Sidney's Candy scored in track record time of 1:02.71 under Joe Talamo. Trained by John Sadler, the son of Candy Ride (Ride the Rails) drew off when asked through the stretch and should be followed up the ladder. He was making only his second career start. ... The $350,000 Grade I Del Mar Oaks was taken by Internallyflawless under Garret Gomez for trainer Bob Baffert. The daughter of Giant's Causeway looked very solid here in her win and was winning a Graded event for the first time.

Sunday's action (08/23) saw You Lift Me Up (8th) take home the winners share of the $100,000 Solana Beach Handicap, a restricted race for California bred or sired runners. Returning $9.60 for the win, the Jerry Hollendorfer trainee was ridden nicely by Joel Rosario and broke a 0 for 7 losing streak in in 2009. ... Pick 6 carryover of $193,145 and a Super High 5 carryover of $65,012 into Wednesday's action.

Good luck this week at Del Mar and don't forget to sign up for winners at http://www.horseracing-selections.com

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Give CalRacing.com a try and you'll never watch anything else when you want live or video race coverage.

The Del Mar meeting believe it or not is at the half-way point. Where does the time go? So far, our hats are off to track management for a pretty darn good meeting. While the synthetic track has been a little bi-polar, with speed being good one day and then rally-wide types the next, track maintenance personnel have been working to try and make it consistent from day-to-day. From a handicappers standpoint, we'd have to say that this has been a pretty consistent meeting so far and the results have been fair. ... Speaking of fair, the Los Angeles County Fair is rapidly approaching and will be with us September 9. One of the only dirt courses left in Southern California, Los Alamitos would be the other, Fairplex Park offers a great card of racing and action. With tight turns and the organic dirt course, we love this meeting and hope that clients and new fans alike will join us for the meeting. Sign up now and take advantage of the sale price through September 6. Click here to sign up now!

The week in review at Del Mar ...

Wednesday's action (08/12) saw the ultra game Wickednwackyingrid take the first race and become the first two-time-winner at the current meeting. 'Ingrid is sharp and may come back for yet another run at them at Del Mar as she won this $25k race in very easy fashion under Martin Pedroza. Trainer Ted West has done a good job with her. ... Super High 5 carryover of $31,192 into Thursday's pool.

Thursday's card (08/13) was run without anything newsworthy to report. ... Pick 6 carryover of $91,470 into Friday's card.

Friday's action (08/14) saw the promising M One Rifle take down the 8th race for trainer Bruce Headley under Mike Smith. The gelded son of One Man Army is now 2 for 3 in his brief racing career and the way he handled his rivals here it seems that he may have a bright future ahead of himself. He returned $5.40 to his backers.

Saturday's card (08/15) saw Blue Chagall (5th) end a better than two year losing streak today at $14.60 while winning for the first time in the U.S. for trainer Julio Canani. Ridden nicely by Tyler Baze, the 4-year-old gelding looked pretty good here in his win. ... The Grade II La Jolla Handicap was won by Meteore under Alex Solis for trainer Richard Mandella. Improving off a dull Oceanside Stakes performance here on opening day, the 3-year-old son of Pulpit bounced back here at $14 and ran his race record to 3 wins from 9 lifetime starts.

Sunday's card (08/16) saw the $350,000 Grade I John C. Mabee go to Magical Fantasy (8th) for trainer Paddy Gallagher under Alex Solis who won both feature races this weekend. This win is the third Grade I win for the daughter of Diesis (Sharpen Up) since arriving to the U.S. from Great Britian.

Good luck at the races this week and don't forget to sign up for winning selections at http://www.horseracing-selections.com

What does she now do for an encore? After being a perfect 12 for 12, and upping the ante for a showdown between herself and Rachel Alexandra, it would seem that Zenyatta has done just about all she can do on the west coast. Having traveled outside California just once when she was victorious in the 2008 Apple Blossom Handicap run at Oaklawn Park, 11 of her 12 wins have been in California, leaving her critics with a full magazine of ammunition. We would love to see her step up and do one of two things. Go outside of California and confront Rachel Alexandra and/or take on the boys. But she's not our mare so what we think doesn't matter. But we get the feeling that we haven't seen her best yet, as frightening as that may seem and in order to do that her connections are going to have to step up and challenge her. ... Zenyatta's win on Sunday was another true race of a champion. Overcoming slow fractions while being far back and given a lot to do by jockey Mike Smith, the daughter of Street Cry overcame those obstacles and won the Grade I $300,000 Clement L. Hirsch by a head over 22/1 longshot Anabaa's Creation. While the winning margin was deceiving (it could have been much more), Zenyatta was still drawing away past the finish line to suggest had the distance been further she would have won by much more. That's what true champions do, they win races and do whatever it takes to do it. Now, let's hope that sometime soon we will see Zenyatta and Rachel Alexandra enter the same gate at the same time.

The week in review at Del Mar ...

Wednesday's card (08/05) saw the $150,000 Cougar Handicap taken by Unusual Suspect at $51 for trainer Barry Abrams under Alonso Quinonez. Look for the son of Unusual Heat to be wheeled back quickly by Abrams. ... Super High 5 carryover of $33,066 into Thursday's card.

Thursday's card (08/06) saw the card run without anything noteworthy to report.

Friday's action (08/07) saw Mi Sueno (8th) take the Grade III $150,000 Sorrento under Michael Baze for trainer Eric Guillot. Prior to this race, Mi Sueno was still a maiden and she defeated some decent fillies in this race. Returning $18.60 for the win, she won off by more than 6 lengths to suggest she may have found herself and the daughter of Pulpit probably should be followed off this win.

Saturday's card (08/08) saw the classy Zensational (8th) win the $300,000 Grade I Bing Crosby Handicap. Albeit not a real strong Bing field, Zensational took home the winners share of the purse for trainer Bob Baffert, under Victor Espinoza. Breeders' Cup Sprint is still the ultimate goal here for the speedy son of Unbridled's Song. Zensational paid $2.80 to her backers.

Sunday's card (08/09) all eyes today were on Zenyatta (8th) and she didn't dissappoint in the Clement L. Hirsch (see above) keeping her perfect 12 for 12 mark intact. ... The Grade II $150,000 Best Pal Stakes was taken by Looking At Lucky for trainer Bob Baffert and jockey Garret Gomez. The son of Smart Strike (Mr. Prospector) was winning his second career start and is now undefeated at 2 for 2. He appears to have a nice future ahead of him and should be followed to see what he's made of.

Good luck this week at Del Mar and don't forget to sign up for winners at http://www.horseracing-selections.com

Saturday at Mountaineer Park in the Grade II $750,000 West Virginia Derby was suppose to be a walk in the park for Kentucky Derby winner Mine That Bird. It wasn't. Under Mike Smith, Mine That Bird could only muster up a third place finish in the Derby as Soul Warrior pulled off the upset at $48. The final clocking was 1:51.46 for the 1 1/8 miles. Favored at 9-10, Mine That Bird seemed to labor through the stretch and wasn't able to get by Soul Warrior or runner-up Big Drama making Mine That Bird winless since his upset win in the 2009 Kentucky Derby. ... We now turn to Sunday for the Grade I $1.25 million Haskell Invitational where the super filly, Rachel Alexandra beat up on the boys by covering the 1 1/8 miles in 1:47.21 to win by six lengths. She became only the second filly to win the race in 42 runnings, since Serena's Song in 1995. Under Calvin Borel she earned a Beyer Speed Figure of 116. Her connections will wait to see how she comes out of this win before deciding where she'll start next. ... For Del Mar fans, Sunday marked the return of Well Armed, his first start since his devastating 14 length win in the Dubai World Cup. Returning in the Grade II $250,000 San Diego Handicap the Eoin Harty trainee "tossed in another clunker" as Trevor Denman said in his race call. The winner, Informed didn't as he posted a gutty nose win at $15 for trainer Doug O'Neil under Tyler Baze. ... The Del Mar synthetic surface as now seen seven horses break down on the synthetic course and one on the lawn since the meeting opened on July 22. So much for the kinder, gentler surfaces that were billed at the beginning of the installation process. The Del Mar track has also once again been hard to predict with the tracking 'changing" from day to day as the track maintenance people tinker with the surface. Are we the only ones that want the tracks to bring back the dirt surfaces?

The week in review at Del Mar ...

Wednesday's card (07/29) saw a nice prospect with Blind Luck taking the 3rd race here for trainer Jerry Hollendorfer under Joel Rosario. Breaking slowing from the rail going 5 1/2 furlongs, the daughter of Pollards Vision (Carson City) circled the field to win going away at $3.20. She is now undefeated, two for two since arriving from Florida and does seem to have a very bright future ahead of her. Deserves to be followed up the ladder.

Thursday's action (07/30) saw the card run without anything noteworthy to report.

Friday's card (07/31) saw Colonel John take down the $85,000 Wickerr in impressive fashion. His first try over the lawn in his return, the Eoin Harty trainee was ridden well by Garret Gomez and returned $6.80 for the win. It was the Tiznow colts first start since a 4th place finish in the Grade 1 Malibu at Santa Anita in December 2008.

Saturday's card (08/01) saw the Grade II $150,000 San Clemente Handicap won by Starlarks (8th) in an upset win under Alex Solis at $24.60. Trained by Paddy Gallagher, the winner just wore down runner-up Strawberry Tart to win by a nose. The race favorite Carlsbad tired and faded badly in the stretch.

Sunday's card (08/02) saw an impressive win by Rainbow's Song (1st) trained by Paddy Gallagher and ridden by Joel Rosario at $8.60. The 4-year-old daughter of Unbridled's Song beat a highly-regarded filly named Moon de French and deserves to be followed through her connections. ... The San Diego Handicap a Grade II $250,000 race was taken by Informed at $15 for trainer Doug O'Neil under Tyler Baze. The former claimer looked good here, just getting up to beat an ultra game runner-up, Mast Track for trainer Bobby Frankel. Perhaps Informed will be next seen in the Pacific Classic here at Del Mar.

Good luck at the races this week. Don't forget to sign up for winners at http://www.horseracing-selections.com

Horse players, fans, advertisers, etc. are warned about doing business with Thoroughbred Style magazine as they have stopped paying writers and free-lance journalists. If you have been lucky enough to receive a check from this publication, it likely bounced and no payment has been received.

Click on the below link for the full scoop ...

http://forums.writersweekly.com/viewtopic.php?p=66929

Nice way to be treated in the industry that doesn't need this type of publicity.

Wednesday marked the opening week at Del Mar which attracted an opening day crowd in excess of 44,000, a record amount of fans to walk through the turnstiles. Del Mar is truly a magical track, with the ocean breeze and fresh air that can give the horsemen and race horses alike a working vacation. The synthetic track seems to be a bit more "fair" this year as management continues to look for ways to make the decision by the CHRB which mandated the track to replace the old dirt with the synthetic work. Water or no water? That is the question that seems to be working so far as track maintenance people have found the right amount to put on the track in the afternoon to make it play fair. So far this meeting, three horses have been put down to injuries suffered in the a.m. and afternoon racing. Not the best of starts to the meeting. Lets hope that things quiet down on that front.

The week in review at Del Mar ...

Wednesday, Opening Day (07/22) saw Mi Rey (3rd) break down and toss Rafael Bejarano to the track. Mi Rey was put down on the track while Bejarano was taken to the hospital for x-rays. Bejarano will miss several weeks with multiple face fractures and is now on the mend following surgery. Punctual (4th) looked nothing short of awesome in winning her debut race for trainer Peter Miller under Tyler Baze. The 2-year-old daughter of Werblin (Unbridled's Song) should be followed up the ladder as she just may turn out to be a decent one. She returned $19.60 to her backers. ... The $100,000 Oceanside was taken by Afleet Eagle (8th) at  $14.60 for trainer Vladimir Cerin under Tyler Baze. The gelded son of Northern Afleet has now won three of four starts and was making his turf debut in the Oceanside.

Thursday's card (07/23) saw the race card run without anything newsworthy to report. Pick 6 carryover of $80,885 into Friday's card.

Friday's card (07/24) saw Repo (3rd) take down the $100,000 California Thoroughbred Breeders' Association Stakes. Trained by Doug O'Neil and ridden by Corey Nakatani, the daughter of In Excess was winning her third race in four career starts and paid $3.20 to her backers. If kept at the proper level, she could prove to be a useful sort down the line for her connections. ... Two day Pick 6 carryover of $382,172 into Saturday's card.

Saturday's action (07/25) saw the $100,000 Fleet Treat fall to Excessive Blend (6th) in a good looking win under Mike Smith at $12.60. Trained by Carla Gaines, the 3-year-old filly by In Excess paid $12.60 for the win. ... Global Hunter (8th) took the Grade I $350,000 Eddie Reed Handicap in exciting fashion after Thorn Song blew the turn and sent Monterey Jazz into a sprint for home shortly thereafter. Hunter fell into the garden spot under Corey Nakatani and paid $30.20 to give trainer A.C. Avila his first Grade I victory.

Sunday's card (07/26) saw a good looking win by Scorpion Time (2nd) at $7.80 for trainer Michael Machowsky. Ridden well by Mike Smith, the son of Scorpion (Seattle Slew) was wearing blinkers for the first time today and was winning for the second time in four career efforts. Follow this guy through his conditions. ... The $85,000 Osunitas Handicap was taken by Meydan Princess (5th) at $17.40 for trainer James Cassidy under David Flores. ... The $100,000 California Dreamin' Handicap was won by Dewey's Special (8th) for trainer Ronald Ellis and Jose Valdivia at $8.60.

Good luck at the races this week and don't forget to sign up for winners at http://www.horseracing-selections.com