Holy Nova stands out in stakes

VANCOUVER, British Columbia - Holy Nova became sick and missed a few days of training following her win in the Brighouse Belles on May 10. Nonetheless, she figures to be tough to beat Saturday in the $50,000 Senate Appointee at Hastings.

The 6 1/2-furlong sprint for fillies and mares drew seven horses and goes as the ninth race.

Holy Nova is a complete standout. Trained by Troy Taylor, Holy Nova controlled the race from start to finish in the six-furlong Brighouse Belles, and a similar scenario is likely to unfold in the Senate Appointee. Holy Nova doesn't need the lead to win, though, and if Yoorock Gal or Wind Storm is intent on setting the pace, Holy Nova can stalk.

According to assistant trainer Malcolm Beveridge, Holy Nova is coming into the race in top shape.

"She only missed a few days of training," he said. "We haven't worked her because she puts so much into her galloping. I expect her to run her race."

Leading rider Mario Gutierrez rides Holy Nova.

Napa would benefit the most if a speed duel does develop. Trained by Dino Condilenios, Napa came from off the pace to finish second in the Brighouse Belles. A 4-year-old B.C.-bred by Feu d'Enfer, Napa won two stakes races last year and never finished worse than third in seven starts.

Alpine Garden will try and rebound after finishing last in the M.R. Jenkins Memorial Handicap at Stampede Park on April 27.