Bob Baffert's Stable Set to Shine in the Los Alamitos Futurity
Gaming - A Promising Contender
Owned by Mike Pegram, Karl Watson, and Paul Weitman, Gaming is a son of 2019 Los Alamitos Derby winner Game Winner. He made a strong impression by finishing second behind the 15-1 long-shot stablemate Citizen Bull in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile on Nov. 1 at Del Mar. In his first try at the Futurity distance, he was more than three lengths clear, showing his potential. Bought for $250,000 at the Ocala Breeders’ Sales March auction, Gaming is now 2-for-3 in his career with earnings of $565,000. Out of Johannesburg mare So Stylish, he already achieved a Grade 1 win by capturing the Del Mar Futurity on Sept. 8. Flavien Prat will ride Gaming from post 1, and he is set to make his mark in the Los Alamitos Futurity.Gaming's pedigree and recent performances suggest he has the talent to compete at a high level. His ability to perform well in different races and distances showcases his versatility. The support from his owners and the skill of his trainer give him a good chance of success in the Futurity.
Looking ahead, Gaming will face tough competition from the other entries in the Futurity. However, his past performances give him confidence and the potential to emerge as a winner. The Los Alamitos Futurity will be a crucial test for him as he aims to continue his winning streak and make a name for himself in the racing world.
Getaway Car - Aiming for Second Graded Success
Fourth in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile, Getaway Car is aiming for his second graded success. His partnership includes Starlight Racing, SF Racing, Madaket Stables, Stonestreet Stables, Dianne Bashor, Determined Stables, Bat Masterson, Tom Ryan, Waves Edge Capital, and Catherine Donovan. A Curlin colt out of Morning Line mare Surrender Now, he followed an easy score in his July 20 debut with a dominant victory in the Best Pal (G3) 22 days later. A winner twice in five starts, the Kentucky bred who was a $700,000 buy at the September Keeneland sale last year has banked $313,000. After his two wins, he was fourth in the Del Mar Futurity and second behind Citizen Bull in the American Pharoah (G1) before the BC Juvenile. Juan Hernández will be up on Getaway Car, who drew post 2.Getaway Car's early success and consistent performances indicate his potential to perform well in the Los Alamitos Futurity. His ability to handle different tracks and competition levels shows his adaptability. The support from his partnership and the experience of his jockey give him a good chance of achieving his goal.
In the Futurity, Getaway Car will face stiff competition from Gaming and Mellencamp. However, his past performances and the confidence he has gained will help him navigate through the race. The Los Alamitos Futurity will be another important step in his racing career, and he will be looking to build on his previous successes.
Mellencamp - A Maiden with Potential
Mellencamp, owned by the same partnership as Getaway Car, is a twice-raced maiden. The son of Constitution and Bayern mare American Model was second in his sprint debut Oct. 27 before finishing fourth three weeks later going a mile, defeated by Futurity entrants Journalism and Rank. He has earned $14,040. From post 2, Mellencamp will race with Kazushi Kimura.Mellencamp's early races have shown some promise, but he still has room for improvement. His ability to compete in different distances and against tougher competition will be tested in the Los Alamitos Futurity. With the right training and performance on the day, he has the potential to surprise and make a good showing in the race.
The Los Alamitos Futurity will be a learning experience for Mellencamp. He will need to improve his race strategy and performance to compete with the other entries. However, his potential and the support from his owners give him a chance to make a mark in the racing world.