Cal-bred News

McCann’s Mojave Opts for Cal Cup Classic

ARCADIA, Calif. (Nov. 2, 2005) -- McCann's Mojave will attempt to carry his speed farther than ever before when the 5-year-old son of Memo runs in Sunday's $250,000 California Cup Classic presented by Smith Barney, the closing day feature presented by the Oak Tree Racing Association.

The bay horse trained by Paddy Gallagher will stretch out to 1 1/8 miles after finishing fifth, beaten 2 1/2 lengths, in the Grade I Ancient Title at seven furlongs on Oct. 8.

"He won going a mile (by a head) as a 3-year-old," Gallagher said. "I know it's asking a bit going a mile and an eighth but the plan is to get him to relax."

Alex Solis rides McCann's Mojave for the first time.

"I don't know much about him," Solis said. "I just know he's a very nice horse and he loves to win, so those kind of horses are easy to ride; just get them to settle and they will do the rest."

McCann's Mojave has a 6-2-0 record from 14 starts, with earnings of $405,380 for owners Nikke Hunt and Mike Willman.

Probable for the $250,000 Classic presented by Smith Barney: Carano, Garrett Gomez, 115; Cheroot, no rider, 113; Desert Boom, no rider, 122; El Don, no rider, 119; McCann's Mojave, Alex Solis, 118; Mr. Joe C, Martin Pedroza, 114; Texcess, no rider, 116; Thor's Echo, Corey Nakatani, 115; and Deputy Doc Renzi, Pat Valenzuela, 113.

In other Cal Cup news:
Cheroot worked four furlongs Wednesday in :47.80 for trainer Darrell Vienna, who said the Mile also was a possibility for the 4-year-old son of Smokester.

Ted H. West on Sprint contender Jet West: "His last race (on the same day) was two races after the Ancient Title which Captain Squire won, and Jet West ran a couple-hundredths faster than Captain Squire did in winning a Grade I race. And we had a three-wide trip while Captain Squire had a rail trip."

Everyone in attendance on Sunday at Santa Anita will receive a free Cal Cup Thermos with paid admission, while supplies last. The attractive stainless steel, double-wall thermos with mug lid comes complete with carrying strap and handle.

There will be a $1 million guaranteed Pick 6 pool with a mandatory payout.

The Oak Tree Racing Association and the California Thoroughbred Breeders' Association will host the post position draw breakfast for Cal Cup XVI Thursday, 10 a.m. at Clockers' Corner. First post time on Cal Cup day is 11:15 a.m. Gates open at 9:15 a.m.