Free's Southern California horses to watch

ROWDY DYLAN
Trainer: Peter Miller
Last race: LRC, July 12, 5th
Finish: 1st by 7 1/2
Beyer: 72
This second-start 2-year-old improved a ton while crushing maidens. Steadied at the break, unleashed an early move into contention, drew away late, and galloped out far in front. Next stop: Grade 2 Best Pal Stakes on Aug. 3.

AMARANTH
Trainer: O.J. Jauregui
Last race: LRC, July 12, 7th
Finish: 2nd by 1 3/4
A speedster based in Northern California, she set the pace in this Grade 2 filly-mare sprint, fought back late, and ran the best race of her career. She prefers traditional footing; look for an upcoming start on a dirt track on the fair circuit.

SACRED OVATION
Trainer: Art Sherman
Last race: LRC, July 12, 1st
Finish: 1st by 3 1/4
Returning from a six-month layoff, this claiming-caliber gelding demolished a soft field while “ridden out.” He has run well at Del Mar and figures “live” on a jump in class.

SENATOR BOB
Trainer: Javier Sierra
Last race: LRC, July 10, 8th
Finish: 1st by 6 1/4
This honest gelding continued his sharp form with a crushing win over $8,000 claimers, his third win this year from 10 starts. The ambitiously campaigned gelding thrives on activity and figures to show up again soon at Del Mar or the fairs.