They Could Be Raising the Rocky Bar in Aprisa

Rocky Bar knows only one way to go, and his fast and furious approach makes him the one to catch in today’s $50,000 Aprisa Handicap. The colt is the race high weight and will be giving two to seven pounds to five rivals.

Rocky Bar has never run over this tricky five-eighths-mile oval but he has speed to burn and will pose an elusive target with regular rider Garrett Gomez making a rare trip to the fair. The Kory Owens trainee has posed for snapshots after five of his 15 starts, most recently at Hollywood Park in July where he went coast-to-coast over the turf. He’ll be gunning for his second stakes decision, having won the Harry Henson last season.

On paper, FJ’s Pace, with Scott Stevens riding, figures to be right with Rocky Bar. The gelding has clicked nine times and is coming off a strong runner-up effort in a race at Del Mar won by Avanzado.

Look for Rapidough to play the spoiler. Claimed after his last start for $62,500 by trainer Cliff Sise, he has a stalking style and figures to be there if a fast pace wears down the two speedsters.

Completing the six pack are Hyder, who has been popular at the claim box this year; La Bandera, who eyes the hat trick while moving up in class, and Mistakenly Special, who returns to the short game.

The picks: 1. Crown of Lites. 2. Amender. 3. Magnificent Max. 4. Proud Patrolman. 5. No Love Song. 6. Foxy Johnny. 7. Primacy. 8. Wisdom’s Mark. 9. Ultimate Prize. 10. Rocky Bar. 11. The Seth Bomber

Post time: 12:30 p.m.