Hollywood: Rhythm of Light likely done for the season

Shigeki Kikkawa

Rhythm of Light wins the the Goldikova at Santa Anita in her U.S. debut. She also has raced in England, Turkey, Dubai, and France.

INGLEWOOD, Calif. - Rhythm of Light won her U.S. debut in the Grade 2 Goldikova Stakes at Santa Anita last Sunday, but is unlikely to start again this year, trainer Simon Callaghan said on Wednesday.

After the race, Rhythm of Light was mentioned as a possible starter for the $250,000 Matriarch Stakes at Betfair Hollywood Park on Nov. 25, a Grade 1 turf race over a mile for fillies and mares. Callaghan said she is likely to be rested until early 2013 instead.

“I’m pretty sure we’re going to wait,” he said. “She’s a well-traveled filly. I think we’ll give her a bit of time and bring her back in February.”

Rhythm of Light was trained by Tom Dascombe of England through Sunday’s race. For Dascombe, Rhythm of Light won such races as the 2011 Sandringham Handicap at Royal Ascot and the Group 2 International Istanbul Trophy in Turkey on Sept. 1. The Grade 2 Goldikova was her first start since the race in Turkey.

For 2013, Callaghan said that a race such as the Buena Vista Handicap over a mile on turf at Santa Anita in February could be Rhythm of Light’s first start. Later in the year, races such as the Grade 1 Beverly D. Stakes at Arlington Park will be considered.

“It’s those type of races,” he said. “She seems to travel really well and has a wonderful temperament.

“She’s fine. There’s no real benefit to running back in three weeks, even though it’s a Grade 1. If we’re patient, it will pay dividends down the line.”