3rd-SA, $61,825, Alw (NW1$X)/Opt. Clm ($80,000), 2-28, 3yo, 1m, 1:37.97, ft.
MALIBU SUNSET (c, 3, Bernardini–One Stormy Mama, by Storm Cat) began his career under the care of trainer Wayne Catalano and earned 'TDN Rising Star' status after capturing a six-furlong maiden test at the Fair Grounds by 10 1/2 lengths Jan. 31. The colt earned a Beyer Speed Figure of 91 that day and was subsequently shipped west to join the barn of Bob Baffert, who paired with these owners to campaign past Grade I performers such as New Year's Day (Street Cry {Ire}), Power Broker (Pulpit) and Book Review (Giant's Causeway). Hammered down to 1-5 favoritism for this first try around two turns, the dark bay departed the gate in good order and eagerly pressed Xingontothebone (Time to Get Even) through a half-mile in :47.90 under a tight hold from jockey Flavien Prat. Malibu Sunset moved to the front under minimal urging soon after that juncture and edged away to score by a well-measured 1 1/2 lengths, with the outcome never seeming to be in doubt. The pacesetter held on to finish second. The winner is a half to Thunder Moccasin (A. P. Warrior), GSW, $114,300. His dam One Stormy Mama produced a colt by Bernardini last year and was most recently bred back to Medaglia d'Oro. Sales History: $190,000 RNA Wlg '13 FTKNOV; $240,000 Ylg '14 KEESEP. Lifetime Record: 2-2-0-0, $58,800. Click for the Equibase.com chart or VIDEO, sponsored by Fasig-Tipton.
O-Gary & Mary West; B-Mike Abraham (KY); T-Bob Baffert.
Not a subscriber? Click here to sign up for the daily PDF or alerts.
