Wherever Islander Surfaces, He Usually Manages to Run Well
For a horse that once could have been claimed for $4,000, Islander has done very well.
An 8-year-old son of Rubiano owned by Cyndi and Stephen Weeks and trained by Ruben Cardenas, Islander has won 14 of 36 in his career and earned $314,024.
The Florida-bred can add to those totals when he takes on nine other older horses today in the fifth at Santa Anita, a $50,000 claimer scheduled for about 6 1/2 furlongs on the turf.
Barring more rain, the race is likely to stay on the grass, but Islander won’t be bothered if it is moved to the main. He has won seven times on both surfaces and his winning percentage is actually much better on the dirt. He has won seven of 21 on the grass and is seven for 13 on the main.
After a layoff of about 6 1/2 months, Islander returned in style Jan. 12. Ridden by Patrick Valenzuela, he went wire to wire as the 17-10 favorite, winning by two lengths in 1:12 1/5 for the about 6 1/2 furlongs on grass.
Valenzuela again has the mount on the chestnut, who is the 6-5 favorite.
Islander isn’t the only old pro running. Bluesthestandard, a 6-year-old gelding who has won 10 of 17, will make his first start for trainer Ted H. West in today’s ninth, a $57,000 optional claimer at 6 1/2 furlongs.
Race of the day: Garden In The Rain and the Bobby Frankel-trained Final Destination head the field in the $150,000 Buena Vista Handicap at Santa Anita. The race is set for a mile on the turf.
Who’s hot: Valenzuela, who had three winners each on Saturday and Sunday to regain sole possession of the lead in the rider standings.
Who’s not: Sam David, Jr. The trainer won with only one of his first 54 starters at the Fair Grounds.
Exotically speaking: A pick four using Garden In The Rain and Final Destination in the seventh, singling Smokindowntheroad in the eighth, Bluesthestandard and Sunset Place in the ninth and Arms Control, A Lil Excess and Sotogrande in the 10th.
Winners: Previous day/meet total: 4/104. Money: Previous day/meet total: $18/$617.40. Total money bet: $682.