Monster Bea, Lucky Bryan could benefit from speed duel in La Jolla
August 3rd, 2016
Lucky Bryan debuted for Sadler in the $78,000 Singletary at Santa Anita May 14. Third in that one-mile test, his first in seven months, the colt was a closing fourth in the $85,000 Rainbow over the same course next out, but put it all together July 16 over the Del Mar turf, taking a first-level allowance by a nose after rallying behind a moderate pace.
The fractions figure to be a lot quicker in the La Jolla with Mr. Roary and Imperious One likely to replicate their speed duel from the $117,000 Oceanside on opening day. The pair ultimately couldn't last against most of their rivals. The main beneficiary was 12-1 longshot Monster Bea, who romped home by 2 1/4 lengths in his first start for trainer Peter Miller. Moonlight Drive, runner-up in the Oceanside following a five-month spell, also returns for the La Jolla.
The lightly-raced Liam the Charmer has won or placed in all three turf outings, and came within a half-length of coming through as the favorite in the June 18 Rainbow. Dressed in Hermes, a three-time stakes winner, has gone unplaced in his last three, including a fourth in the Oceanside.
Other potential players include Ebadan, below par when beating just one to the line in the Oceanside, and the French invader Burger and Fries.
The $200,000 Sorrento (G2) attracted just six two-year-old fillies to travel 6 1/2 furlongs in what is the main stakes prep for the Del Mar Debutante (G1).
Leading contenders include Miss Southern Miss, runner-up in the $125,000 Landaluce following a debut win at Santa Anita; Auntjenn, a blowout 6 1/2-length maiden victor July 23; and Champagne Room, who could improve off her debut second over this track July 16.
(Benoit Photos)
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