McAnally Might Hurdle Obstacle with Antespend

Trainer Ron McAnally has won countless Grade I races in his 40-year, Hall of Fame career.

But one Grade I that has escaped him is the Hollywood Oaks. Most observers believe that will change today because McAnally is saddling the favorites on Russ Hudak’s morning line.

Antespend, who has eight victories in 11 starts, including Grade I victories in the Las Virgenes and Santa Anita Oaks, is the 8-5 choice. And Listening, who won the Princess last month and has won three of six, is second at 2-1.

Antespend, who has won three of five on the main track, will again be ridden by Chris Antley. Chris McCarron will be on Listening.

The rest of the field in the Oaks, which carries a $175,000 purse and is run at 1 1/8 miles, includes Little Gumpher, Ocean View, Najecam, Supercilious and Bella Capote.