Gimme Da Lute wins second straight in Echo Eddie

ARCADIA, Calif. – The first time Gimme Da Lute started at Santa Anita in January, trainer Bob Baffert said he was unaware that he was starting a California-bred against open company.

“Someone forgot to give me the memo,” he said.

Gimme Da Lute was beaten a nose in that race Jan. 31 but is unbeaten in two subsequent starts for California-bred 3-year-olds at 6 1/2 furlongs – a maiden race Feb. 21 and Saturday’s $200,250 Echo Eddie Stakes at Santa Anita.

The win Saturday might put Gimme Da Lute right back in open company. Ridden by Martin Garcia, Gimme Da Lute ($3.60) had an ideal trip in the Echo Eddie, stalking pacesetter Richard’s Boy to early stretch before pulling away to win by 5 1/4 lengths. Gimme Da Lute was timed in 1:14.64.

Grazen Sky, a 3-1 shot, closed from sixth in a field of nine to finish second, a half-length in front of 7-2 Richard’s Boy. Rocko’s Wheel, Pay the Fine, Over Par, Chief of Staff, Run Like a Million, and McHeat completed the order of finish.

Gimme Da Lute, by Midnight Lute, was bred by owners Mike Pegram, Karl Watson, and Paul Weitman. Baffert said that Gimme Da Lute was a bit slower to develop than some runners in his stable.

“The main thing was to let him come around at his own pace,” Baffert said.

As for the future, Baffert said no plans are certain for Gimme Da Lute.

“We have different options,” Baffert said. “The way he came out of the last race, he was working well for this race.”

Gimme Da Lute has earned $158,160 in his three-race career.