Two graded races on the main oval will top the racing action at Santa Anita over the weekend. Older runners will go 1 1/16 miles in the $200,000 San Pasqual S. (G2), and a good group is likely. Native Diver h. (G3) winner Blueskiesnrainbows led throughout on the Cushion oval at Hollywood last time in a nice showing and looms a big chance right back for trainer Jerry Hollendorfer. The five-year-old son of English Channel has proven form on this dirt surface and could be a very big player from start to finish with anything like his last one.
Longacres Mile (G3) third Golden Itiz has been training well since his latest race and could be dangerous while fresh for trainer John Sadler. Bob Baffert’s Drill, recent stakes winner Blingo, the classy Majestic City, Hollendorfer’s Rousing Sermon, Majestic Harbor and Spud Spivens, are also part of this well-matched field.
The Saturday undercard is led by the $100,000 Sham S. (G3), an early prep on the Triple Crown trail for sophomores. A trio of fine maiden winners will be getting top billing in this one, led by a pair from the might Bob Baffert barn. Indianapolis was most impressive in winning last time and the colt could have a very bright future. The son of Medaglia d’Oro is bred to run all day and the way he finished in his recent run gives a ton of reason for optimism.
Baffert’s other big gun in visually impressive maiden romper Midnight Hawk, who overcame a slow start to crush at first asking. The son of Midnight Lute could be any kind. Awaiting that formidable pair is Kristo from the barn of John Sadler. The colt by Distorted Humor broke through with a runaway route maiden win in advance of this and looks to be a rapidly improving sort leading up to this contest.