Grammarian wins Sunset Handicap

INGLEWOOD, Calif. - Over the years, the $250,000 at Hollywood Park has been a prep for many important turf stakes. The connections of Grammarian, Sunday's upset winner, are thinking more globally.

After Grammarian won by a head over Continental Red, and survived a claim of foul, owner Lindsey Williams said the Melbourne Cup in Australia is a long-term goal.

A win in the Grade 2 Sunset Handicap was vital since it was Grammarian's stakes debut and first start in a graded stakes, credentials needed to gain access into the Melbourne Cup over two miles on Nov. 5.

"The thing we hope is he can go two miles," Williams said.

Grammarian ($60) was all out to win the Sunset Handicap, finishing 1 1-2 miles in 2:26.59. The Sunset was Grammarian's second win in four starts. Ridden by Brice Blanc for trainer Kellyn Gorder, the 4-year-old Grammarian stalked pacesetter Slew the Red to the final turn, took the lead in early stretch and prevailed despite drifting out in the stretch.

Inside the eighth pole, Grammarian drifted into the path of Adminniestrator, who took up and finished fifth. After an inquiry, the stewards did not change the order of finish after ruling that the incident did not cost Adminniestrator a position.

"We suffered there for about 90 seconds," Williams said.

Continental Red finished a head in front of Lord Flasheart, the 8-5 favorite who closed from seventh in the final quarter mile. Kim Loves Bucky finished fourth, followed by Adminniestrator, Ringaskiddy and Slew the Red.