Mr. Big Schools for Friday Night Feature at Hollywood Park

Mr. Big certainly is aptly named! I caught this photo of the eye-catching bay schooling in Hollywood Park's paddock in the lovely spring weather Thursday afternoon.

Mike Smith has the mount on Mr. Big for trainer Bob Baffert in tomorrow's 7th race at Hollywood Park -- an allowance race at one mile on the turf.
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Two California Shippers Post Works for Kentucky Derby

Monday morning, April 27th, Churchill Downs.

Santa Anita Derby winner Pioneerof the Nile worked 5 furlongs in a controlled 1:01 under regular exercise rider and former jockey, Joe Steiner. Trainer Bob Baffert, who observed the work from the stands, indicated he was happy with the way the colt moves on the dirt track. Pioneerof the Nile had previously been training and running on synthetic tracks in southern California.

Santa Anita Derby runner-up Chocolate Candy went 5 furlongs in :59.20, the second fastest of 26 works at the distance Monday, under jockey Mike Smith. Northern California-based trainer Jerry Hollendorfer also indicated he was pleased with the way his colt runs on dirt.
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Zap! of the Week: Mike Smith Works Chocolate Candy

Larry Zap brings you a beautiful, close-up look at serious Kentucky Derby contender Chocolate Candy in his first work after his nice second to Pioneerof the Nile in the Santa Anita Derby. This three year old by the great racehorse Candy Ride and trained by Jerry Hollendorfer subsequently shipped to Kentucky for his chance to run for the roses. Mike Smith has the mount for the Kentucky Derby. Smith, who stars in the Animal Planet show Jockeys, has won the race with Giacamo. Nicely narrated by Zap. Enjoy!

Read more about contributor Larry Zap in About.
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