Bitzka returns dividends in Barretts Debutante
CYPRESS, Calif. - Bitzka was claimed for $62,500 at Del Mar on Aug. 25 by Pete and Kosta Hronis, and trainer John Sadler. Much of that investment was recovered when the Bitzka won her stakes debut in Saturday’s $100,000 Barretts Debutante for 2-year-old fillies at Los Alamitos.
Bitzka had an ideal trip from an outside post in a field of six. Bitzka stalked pacesetter Diva La Mousse through early fractions of 22.64 seconds for the opening quarter-mile, and 46.29 for a half-mile. Racing outside of Diva La Mousse, who was ridden by Martin Pedroza, Bitzka took the lead in the stretch and won by 5 1/4 lengths over 7-1 Adorable, who closed well.
Bitzka earned $56,000 for the win. Tyler Baze described Bitzka as having a “beautiful trip.”
“I talked to John this morning,” Baze said. “He said, ‘If I have to give you instructions, we’re in trouble.’
“I knew Martin’s filly had speed and I didn’t want to let her get away.”
Bitzka ($5.40) ran 6 1/2 furlongs in 1:16.29. Adorable finished a half-length in front of Spooky Woods, a first-time starter who broke slowly. Spooky Woods was the 7-5 favorite. She closed well to be nearest to the front at the wire.
Diva La Mousse was fourth, followed by Princess Nicole and Reward of Roses.
Bitzka, by Tiago, was purchased for $47,000 at the Barretts May Sale of 2-year-olds in-training. She races for Orange County Thoroughbreds and trainer Blake Heap for her debut win.
The Debutante was restricted to fillies that were sold at Barretts sales. Adorable was purchased for $450,000 at the Barretts March select sale of 2-year-olds in-training, the most expensive filly at that sale.
Bitzka has earned $75,800 in her brief career.