Perfect Story Favored Again

Although she has two wins in four starts, Perfect Story has a long way to go to match the accomplishments of her famous half-brother.

Purchased for $975,000 as a weanling by trainer John Ward for owner John Oxley, the 3-year-old filly is related to Point Given, winner of the Preakness and Belmont Stakes in 2001.

A decisive winner as the 1-2 choice in her Gulfstream Park debut on Jan. 5, Perfect Story is expected to again be a heavy favorite today as she tries two turns for the first time in a $38,000 allowance at a mile and 70 yards at the same track.

Perfect Story should relish the extra yardage and the manner in which she won her last suggests graded stakes are in her future.

Race of the day: Evanders Challenge steps up in class in search of a repeat victory in today’s seventh at Santa Anita. An optional claimer at 1 1/16 miles, the race drew six other California breds.

Who’s hot: Cole Norman. The leading trainer at Oaklawn Park last year, Norman is on top again with five wins in the first three days.

Who’s not: Steve DiMauro and John Terranova. The trainers are a combined one for 46 at Aqueduct.

Exotically speaking: A pick four singling Azure Ciel in the fifth, using Sonia, Intricate and Silver Yen in the sixth, Evanders Challenge and Grand Visions in the seventh and Single All All, Triptronic, Siberian Seduction, Devil’s Cat and Pacific Crest in the eighth.

Winners: Previous day/meet total: 2/82. Money: Previous day/meet total: $21.60/$502.60. Total money bet: $514.