Golden Triumph gets class relief in Sunday feature

VANCOUVER, British Columbia – Golden Triumph looks like the one to catch and beat in a $25,000 claiming race for 3-year-olds and up Sunday at Hastings. The 6 1/2-furlong sprint drew seven horses and goes as the sixth race. Post time for the first of seven races is 1:50 p.m. Pacific.

Golden Triumph is taking a substantial drop in class after getting fried in a speed duel in the $50,000 George Royal on April 27. Trained by Dino Condilenios, Golden Triumph and Success Rate dueled through the first half-mile in a rapid 44.34 seconds. Golden Triumph was still in the race at the eighth pole, but the duel took its toll, and he faded to finish last. He shouldn’t have to work as hard Sunday and figures to move forward with a race behind him.

Frank Fuentes retains the mount.

Condilenios also entered Iscar. The 6-year-old son of Bernardini wants more distance, but he has been a sharp horse this spring. He also might have tipped his hand when he worked a bullet five furlongs in 59.60 seconds over a track rated “good” April 27.

After the Conflict appears to be the only horse in the field who has enough early zip to pressure Golden Triumph early. The Patty Leaney trainee is facing a tough task in his first start as a 4-year-old, though. In his final start last year, he opened up a clear lead before settling for second in a $12,500 claiming race restricted to 3-year-olds.

The classy 8-year-old Ganbei runs well fresh and could pick up the pieces if an all-out duel develops. His trainer, Mel Snow, also has solid numbers with horses coming back from a layoff of 180 days or more.

Grandpa George and Big Jim are moving to dirt following decent races on turf. Grandpa George rallied to finish second going 7 1/2 furlongs in an $8,000 claiming race at Turf Paradise on Feb. 25. Big Jim forced the pace and held on to finish a close third in a $12,500 claiming race at 1 1/16 miles at Golden Gate on Nov. 28.

Deputy’s Command completes the field.