In this week's On Racing, the steady downgrading of Southern California stakes races over the last decade is beginning to take its toll, a prime example being the Santa Anita Oaks (G2).
Remember Mamba rolls home in the stretch of the Transylvania Stakes (G3T) at Keeneland to remain a perfect 3-for-3 for trainer Cherie DeVaux and owner C R K Stable.
Last spring, trainer Ian Wilkes took two graded stakes at Keeneland during the spring meet's first few days, and this year, he struck opening day, April 3, when A Fine Chardonnay popped the cork in winning the Beaumont Stakes (G2).
The "Horse Racing Happy Hour" podcast is launching a 12-part podcast series on the Thoroughbred racing season at Horseshoe Indianapolis. The first episode will air at 7 p.m. ET April 6.
Two-year-old Suspicions breaks his maiden April 3 at Keeneland, becoming the first starter and winner for freshman sire Corniche, who stands at Ashford Stud for $15,000. He is owned and trained by Wesley Ward.
Mike Battaglia, who has served as Churchill Downs' morning-line oddsmaker for more than five decades, retires from the role, ending a 51-year run. Nick Tammaro will succeed Battaglia in the position.
Ka Ying Rising and Voyage Bubble make a formidable double dip on the Easter Monday program at Sha Tin Racecouse as they continue preparations for Champions Day.