Hasty Kris takes San Carlos

ARCADIA, Calif. - Hasty Kris, the 8-year-old who has been owned by CRK Stables and trained by John Sadler since his career began six years ago, won his first stakes in Southern California in Saturday's $150,000 at Santa Anita.

The win marked Hasty Kris's third win in his last five starts; the other two came in optional claimers when he was available to be claimed for $80,000 and $100,000.

Ridden by Rene Douglas, Hasty Kris overcame a spot of trouble on the turn to win the Grade 2 San Carlos. Stuck behind pacesetters Sinister G and Perfect Moon, Hasty Kris rallied on the inside in the stretch to win by a half-length over Harvard Avenue, who was sixth early.

Hasty Kris broke from the rail and was always near the front. "He's old enough that he's had experience with the one," Sadler said. "I wanted (Douglas) to rush him out to get a position and get within striking distance of the leaders."

Harvard Avenue, trained by Doug O'Neill, finished a half-length in front of O'Neill's other starter, Perfect Moon. Mass Media, the 9-10 favorite, finished sixth in the field of eight.

Hasty Kris ($9.80) was timed in 1:21.42. A gelding, Hasty Kris has won 9 of 42 starts and $571,197. The race marked his second stakes win. He won the Kenny Noe Handicap at Calder in December 2003.