Horses to Watch Alert
Santa Anita
Race 5
No. 1 JAIRZIHNO: Stumbled badly at the start and was far, far back and in another galaxy but angled out for the drive and made a big late run to pick up the place.
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No. 7 WAR ELEMENT: I was very anxious to see this gelding come back, but looked for him to return on the grass. Instead, he freaked, flying by his foes turning for home like they were standing. Won going away by more than eight lengths while being geared down. This guy looks big time for trainer Carla Gaines. $$$$$
Race 6
No. 1 TOLUCA: Nice maiden breaker in her last start despite trouble. This filly looks to be coming around for Jeff Mullins. Could move up and win versus winners.
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No. 6 UNDER PROTEST: Jeff Mullins first time starter went off at 5-1. She sat back off the pace, circled the leaders approaching the stretch and stormed away like a freight train to win going away like a good thing. This girl will be able to move up and score against winners.
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No. 9 BACKWOODS BELLE: Was in from the Fair for Mike Mitchell and bet down to .80 cents on the dollar. Won like a million bucks drawing away by 6 lengths under her own power. As we continue to follow the money, trainer Sadler again claimed this one from Mike, putting up 40k for this filly.
Race 7
No. 1 BELLA ROJA: Looked to have a good shot in this 1 1/16 turf route at a nice price but she broke slow and was dead last. Had to be steadied hard into the first turn. Angled out into the stretch and made a nice late run. Just did miss the show dough by a half length.