Another Shot at Glory

Some expensive youngsters get together today in Del Mar’s second race.

In fact, two of the fillies alone cost $3.25 million when purchased in September at Keeneland.

Santa Catarina, who was purchased for $950,000 by trainer Bob Baffert for owners Bob and Beverly Lewis, and Ashraaf, who set Godolphin Racing, Inc. back $2.3 million, each lost as the favorite in their debuts.

Stretching out to 6 1/2 furlongs today, the two 2-year-old fillies will try to make amends against only four opponents.

A bay daughter of Unbridled, Santa Catarina was troubled when fourth at 17-10 on July 7 but has trained well since coming to Del Mar. She turned in a 1:11 2/5 gate drill nine days ago.

Ashraaf, a Deputy Minister filly, showed speed in her debut on July 13 at Hollywood Park, before tiring to finish fourth at 7-10. She should improve with a race under her belt.

Santa Catarina, who will be ridden by Mike Smith, is the 8-5 favorite on Jeff Tufts’ morning line while Ashraaf and David Flores are the 2-1 second choice. The field is completed by Major Run, the beaten favorite in her June 15 bow at Hollywood Park for trainer Neil Drysdale; Rousing Again, a $175,000 yearling purchase who has finished third in both of her races for trainer Jerry Dutton; longshot Trixie Chick and firster Bella Nunzi, a daughter of Proud and True trained by Simon Bray.

Race of the day: Orientate will try for his fourth stakes victory of the year for the Lewises and trainer Wayne Lukas in the $200,000 A.G. Vanderbilt Handicap today at Saratoga. Jerry Bailey will ride in the six-furlong affair. Other contenders include Say Florida Sandy and Beau’s Town.

Who’s hot: Garrett Gomez. The jockey reached 2,000 victories when Adalgisa scored an impressive win in her U.S. debut in Saturday’s fourth race at Del Mar. Gomez added No. 2,001 later with Albatros.

Who’s not: Bob Hess Jr. The trainer lost with 21 of his first 22 starters at Del Mar.

Exotically speaking: An exacta box in the sixth using Candor, Chastity Belle and Shezasummerbreeze.

Winners: Previous day/meet total: 1/35. Money: Previous day/meet total: $4/$206.20. Total money bet: $276.