Comical impresses in debut victory

ARCADIA, Calif. – In March, Comical was part of the catalog for the Ocala Breeders’ Sale of 2-year-olds in-training. It was as close as she got to going through the sale ring.

The filly was withdrawn after co-owner Erik Johnson said there was “no action” from potential buyers, regarding their interest. Comical was sent to trainer Doug O’Neill’s stable in California where she began workouts.

Sunday at Santa Anita, Comical had her debut in a maiden special weight race for fillies at 4 1/2 furlongs. There was plenty of action from bettors, who were rewarded. Ridden by Rafael Bejarano, Comical ($5.40) ran an outstanding race, dueling with 3-2 favorite Golden Star Lady for the opening quarter-mile before drawing away to win by six lengths over that rival.

Comical was timed in 52.32 seconds.

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“That was the performance we were hoping to see,” O’Neill said. “You’ll see horses train well and you put them on stage and they can disappoint you.

“She’s a nice filly. Credit to Rafael. She got pressure all the way.”

Comical was purchased for $100,000 at the 2018 Keeneland September Yearling sale. She is co-owned by Johnson, who plays defense for the NHL’s Colorado Avalanche, and longtime O’Neill clients Mark Verge and Dave Kenney.

Comical will be considered for the Grade 2 Sorrento Stakes at Del Mar on Aug. 3. The $200,000 Sorrento Stakes is run at six furlongs and is the first stakes of the year for 2-year-old fillies in Southern California.