A competitive 8-race card is on tap at Santa Anita Park on Jan 6th. I am still alive in the WinVivor and ShowVivor contests, and I have yet to decide which horses I am using on Wednesday.
Yankee Romance is the favorite in the opener. The Mike Mitchell trainee exits a sharp maiden claiming wire job and tackles winners for the first time today. She has speed but earned weak pace figs last time and might prove vulnerable if pressured early. Roman Charity and Dinnr With Nikki C are obvious threats to the aforementioned fav.
The 2nd race is a claiming route …read more

Saturday’s $200k Sham Stakes is a key local nine furlong prep for the April 4th Santa Anita Derby, and many of these need graded earnings if they hope to make it to the starting gate in the Kentucky Derby.

The Pamplemousse, the 9-5 morning line favorite, has won two straight, including the Grade 3 San Rafael at a flat mile here. Alex Solis/Julio Canani are 4-7 together, and the early/pressing type might get brave if able to sneak away early. He gets a stamina test today and will not offer much wagering value.
Mr. Hot Stuff is on the upswing …read more