Top Trainers Fill the Field

The last eight San Gabriel Handicaps have been won only by trainers in the Hall of Fame.

In addition to the late Charlie Whittingham, who won with Rainbow Blues five years ago, Richard Mandella won the Grade II in consecutive years with Romarin (1995-96), Bobby Frankel scored with Martiniquais in 1997, Brave Act won two in a row for Ron McAnally in 1998 and 2000, and Irish Prize won the last two renewals for Neil Drysdale.

Mandella, Frankel, Mc- Anally and Drysdale all have a chance to win another San Gabriel today as the four have a majority of the 11 entrants in the $150,000 race at 1 1/8 miles on the turf. The San Gabriel is the next-to-last leg of a pick six with a carryover of $160,167.

Besides Blue Steller, Frankel is also scheduled to be represented by 8-5 favorite Decarchy, who will have a new rider in Jerry Bailey.

The country’s leading trainer also entered Sumitas, but he will run in a softer spot Tuesday.

A troubled fourth in the Citation Handicap last month at Hollywood Park, Decarchy has never lost at Santa Anita. He is perfect in three starts on the local course with his most recent win coming in the Jimmy Kilroe Handicap on March 2.

Race of the day: Wrangler, Say Florida Sandy, Late Carson and Multiple Choice head the field in the $100,000 Gravesend Handicap at Aqueduct. The Grade III sprint was supposed to be run Thursday but was postponed when racing was canceled because of bad weather.

Who’s hot: Kevin Krigger. Back in Northern California after spending some time on the local circuit, Krigger had the best day of his career Thursday, winning four races at Golden Gate Fields.

Who’s not: The field in today’s seventh at Golden Gate Fields. The 12 original entrants in the maiden claimer are a combined 0 for 108.

Exotically speaking: A trifecta in the second keying Secret Approval on top with Maria’s Mirage, Happy Michelle, Neeshanha and Throw Me Roses in the two hole and all in the third spot.

Winners: Previous day/meet total: 3/5. Money: Previous day/meet total: $19/$31.60. Total money bet: $52.