Not Quite a Steppingstone

The $150,000 San Pasqual Handicap, which will be run for the 67th time today, is the first prep for the $1-million Santa Anita Handicap on March 6.

It has been more than a decade, however, since a winner of the San Pasqual repeated in the Big ‘Cap. Farma Way was the last horse to win both races, accomplishing the double for trainer Wayne Lukas in 1991.

Olmodavor, who earned his first graded stakes win in last month’s Native Diver Handicap at Hollywood Park, is the 8-5 favorite in the San Pasqual, a Grade II at 1 1/16 miles. The race is part of a pick six with a carry-over of $536,394.

Trained by Richard Mandella, Olmodavor, a 5-year-old son of A.P. Indy, has won twice in four tries at this track and was second to Medaglia d’Oro in the 2003 Strub. Alex Solis will ride.

Race of the day: Cajun Beat will make his first start since his 22-1 surprise in the Breeders’ Cup Sprint on Oct. 25 in the $100,000 Mr. Prospector Handicap at Gulfstream Park. The six-furlong Mr. Prospector is one of three stakes on the opening-day card at Gulfstream. The two others are the $100,000 Honey Fox Handicap for fillies and mares at 1 1/16 miles on the turf and the $100,000 Hal’s Hope Handicap for older horses at 1 1/16miles.

One for the road: Buju makes his first start for Allen Jerkens and first since April 5 in today’s seventh at Gulfstream Park. The 4-year-old Maria’s Mon colt showed a lot of promise early last year and the barn is good with horses on the comeback.

Exotically speaking: A pick three using King George W. and Run For Fun in the first, Triple Act in the second and Lil G Man, Standard Setter and Albatros in the third.

Winners: Previous day/meet total: 2/21. Money: Previous day/meet total: $14/$111.80. Total money bet: $124.