The Irish-bred (by way of Italy) was able to get the job done as the favorite in Race 8 for Southern California trainer Patrick Gallagher. The race was a first level Allowance for older fillies and mares going 1 1/16m on the main track. She ran a good second on the lawn at Golden Gate in her last start, and today’s race marked her first try on an all weather surface. Jockey Julien Couton was able to put her in a nice spot, sitting in second just behind the leader. She began to make a move on the turn, but was not making a lot of progress, and in the stretch it appeared like she was not going to run on much. However, she was able to get her feet under her and find a second gear to get up and win by a neck– she showed a lot of determination. Pace-setting Miss Super Saint ran a valiant race at 34/1 to just miss on the line. Up for 3rd was Gettin Sideways, who made a strong run from the back. Nonna Gianna was stakes placed in Italy, where she ran the first 5 races of her career. She is steadily improving and it will be interesting to see if this daughter of Havana Gold will come back to Golden Gate Fields for her 3rd straight race.
Race 6 on the card was a 6f Allowance/ Optional Claimer for 3yos. The Smolich homebred by Old Fashioned was able to make it back to back wins. Trainer Steve Specht has Unbridled’s Skye in strong form– she is a half sister to stakes-winning local horse Krsto Skye. Sadly the favorite Big Ceas was pulled up on the turn and had to be euthanized. Condolences to all of his connections.
The 4th race on the card was a 2-turn MSW for fillies 4yo and up. It was won handily by Southern California shipper Miss Voluptuous. Her 5 length wire-to-wire win was the first of two on the day for Patrick Gallagher.
Jockeys: Abel Cedillo and Julien Couton each bagged 2 winners on the day. Cedillo has expanded his lead to 4 in the standings.
- Cedillo *26* 2. Hernandez *22* 3. Martinez *12*
Trainers: Patrick Gallagher had a double on the day with Miss Voluptuous and Nonna Gianna. Blaine Wright moved into 2nd outright after taking the opener with Abdication.
- Wong *16* 2. Wright *10* 3. Delia *9*
Live racing continues tomorrow on MLK Day with an 8-race card. First post is at 12:45pm.
NorCal Horse Racing News 