Vasilika (Skipshot), claimed for $40,000 out of a win in February, has won six of her seven starts since and missed by a neck in the other one. She stepped up to graded company last time with aplomb and will look to continue her ascent as the heavy favorite in Saturday's GI Rodeo Drive S. at Santa Anita.
Taken by All Schlaich Stables and Gatto Racing and trainer Jerry Hollendorfer from Drawing Away Stable and Rob Falcone, Jr. here Feb. 11, the chestnut feasted on allowance and starter handicap company through the spring and early summer before taking a shot in the GII John C. Mabee S. last out Sept. 1 at Del Mar. She had no issue with the stiffer competition, rallying to a 1 1/2-length score over the more accomplished Cambodia (War Front).
That mare re-opposes after Vasilika got the jump on her in San Diego. Prior to that, she captured the GII Yellow Ribbon H. Aug. 4, her fourth graded stakes tally. Despite starting six times at Del Mar, this will be the Winter Quarter Farm colorbearer's first try at Santa Anita.
Paved (Quality Road) appeared on her way to a big second half after a dominant victory in the local GII Honeymoon S. June 9, but finished eighth next out in the GI Belmont Oaks Invitational and disappointed when sixth in the GI Del Mar Oaks when last seen Aug. 18.
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