Classic Empire's work keeps him on track for Holy Bull

HALLANDALE BEACH, Fla. – Breeders’ Cup Juvenile winner Classic Empire moved closer to a likely start in the Grade 2 Holy Bull here on Feb. 4 by breezing five furlongs at Palm Meadows on Monday. Daily Racing Form clocker Mike Vesce caught him going five furlongs in 1:02.60 and galloping out strongly in 1:15.40 for six furlongs before pulling up seven-eighths in 1:28.40.

“It wasn’t so much what he did in the work – the time wouldn’t wow anybody – but how he finished and galloped out,” said trainer Mark Casse. “And more important, how he continues to act around the barn. He’s tireless. No matter what he does, he never takes a deep breath. From a fitness level, he’s very good, and we’re one step closer to the Holy Bull after this morning.”

Brown sends out a nice one

Trainer Chad Brown sent out another potential star to capture her U.S. debut here Sunday, when Vaunting won a 7 1/2-furlong entry-level optional-claiming race on the turf while making her first start since October 2015. A Juddmonte Farms homebred half-sister to Group 2 winner Bragging by Exchange Rate, Vaunting rallied smartly through the final furlong under Joel Rosario to post her second win in as many career starts.

“She came into me in really good shape several months ago, had trained really well, and we were looking for the right spot to get her started over here,” said Brown. “I think she’ll stretch out as well. Seven and a half is about as short as she wants to run. So, we’ll see how she comes out of this, pick out a little longer race, and go from there.”

◗ Luis Saez increased his lead atop the jockey standings after posting a four-bagger Sunday, giving him 39 wins for the session, which began Dec. 3. He is followed by Paco Lopez, Nik Juarez, Tyler Gaffalione, and Javier Castellano, who is seeking his sixth straight local championship.