Sandtrap Is First to Wire in La Puente

To say the least, trainer Ben Cecil has proven a capable replacement following the death of Rodney Rash, his former boss, on March 1.

Since taking over the Rash barn, Cecil, 27, has six wins from 22 starts at Santa Anita. On Sunday, he picked up his second stakes victory of the meeting when Sandtrap took the $77,720 La Puente Stakes.

Ridden by Eddie Delahoussaye, the 7-10 favorite went right to the front, was joined by 11-1 shot Benton Creek at the top of the stretch, but found enough to win in 1:36 2/5 for the mile on turf.

Owned by Bob Hibbert, the 3-year-old son of Irish River has provided Cecil with both of his local stakes wins. About a month ago, he won the Baldwin at a distance that is better for him--6 1/2 furlongs.

“I really think his class showed through today,” said Cecil. “I think a mile is really pushing it with this colt. We’ll have to discuss with Mr. Hibbert about what to do next.”

Benton Creek, the second-longest shot in the field, finished nearly three lengths ahead of Ayrton S, the 17-10 second choice.

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Semoran, who chased Skip Away in his runaway victory in Saturday’s Blue Grass Stakes, is questionable for the Kentucky Derby, while Halo Sunshine, third behind Zarb’s Magic in the Arkansas Derby, is on his way to Churchill Downs.

“Except for Unbridled’s Song, [Saturday’s] results left the Derby picture somewhat muddled,” said Richard Cross, Halo Sunshine’s trainer. “I did see the Blue Grass and was impressed by Skip Away, although I don’t know how much track condition was a factor. It is going to be an interesting three weeks as everything gets sorted out.”

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Horse Racing Notes

Afternoon Deelites won for the fourth time in as many tries at seven furlongs, taking the $211,400 Commonwealth Breeders’ Cup Sunday at Keeneland. Kent Desormeaux was aboard the winner, who beat Western Winter by half a length in 1:21.