They’re Building for Future

Although it is not a stakes race, today’s seventh at Santa Anita features a few 3-year-olds who could have stakes in their future.

Listen Indy, who was third in last year’s Norfolk, and recent maiden winners Nation Wide News and Atswhatimtalknabout will get together in the $56,000 allowance at one mile.

A $900,000 purchase about a year ago by trainer Ron Ellis and owner B. Wayne Hughes, Atswhatimtalknabout has arguably been the most visually impressive maiden winner at the still-young Santa Anita meet.

The 3-2 favorite when breaking into the game at six furlongs Jan. 4, the dark bay broke last in the field of 11 and had only one horse beat entering the stretch. Seventh with an eighth of a mile to go, Atswhatimtalknabout flew late and was up to win by a half-length.

On opening day, Nation Wide News finished on even terms with Ocean Terrace and the two were five lengths clear of the third-place finisher.

Race of the day: The $50,000 Dixie Belle, a six-furlong race for 3-year-old fillies, is the opening day feature at Oaklawn Park in Hot Springs, Ark.

Who’s hot: Richard Matlow. The always high-percentage trainer won with four of his first five starters at Santa Anita.

Who’s not: Alex Jimenez. The rider was three for his first 100 mounts at the Fair Grounds.

Exotically speaking: Exacta boxes in the eighth keying Raise Expectations with Ice Fella and Millennium Moment.

Winners: Previous day/meet total: 3/64. Money: Previous day/meet total: $21.20/$385.80. Total money bet: $376.