BIG FIELD LIKELY FOR CONTENTIOUS PACIFIC CLASSIC
Defending champ Richard’s Kid is winless since his triumph in this one last season, but the son of Include should not be overlooked in here as a possible overlay in the G1 $1 million Pacific Classic Stakes at Del Mar on Saturday. The late-running six-year-old made headlines when getting up late in this event last season, and it’s clear that he thrives on this oval, so the well-bred runner should take plenty of attention in here.
Grade 1 turf standout The Usual Q T could be the best horse on the West Coast and deserves a shot at this for trainer James Cassidy. The four-year-old California-bred has romped on the grass against top foes and could be the one if the footing is to his liking. G1 Eddie Read Stakes fourth Crowded House was a class act overseas, and the Brian Meehan pupil could be a sleeper in here at a fair price. Awesome Gem finally broke through at the highest level last out and could be finding his best form once again for conditioner Craig Dollase.
G2 San Diego Handicap hero Dakota Phone, G3 Cougar II Handicap victor Temple City, Grade 1 turf marathoner Acclamation and Eddie Read third Enriched rounds out the star-studded field.
In the G1 $300,000 Pat O’ Brien Stakes, 2009 Breeders’ Cup Sprint Stakes unner-up Crown of Thorns is likely to make his re-appearance for Richard Mandella. The lightly raced son of Repent has run well over this oval in the past and should be moving late with his normal effort under Victor Espinoza.
Golden Shaheen (UAE-G1) star Kinsale King, and G1 Bing Crosby Handicap first and third, Smiling Tiger and Grade 2 winner E Z’s Gentleman, are also possible.
Blue Chagall could be the one to beat in the G2 $250,000 Del Mar Mile for conditioner Julio Canani.
First post on Saturday at Del Mar is set for 1pm PT/4pm ET.