Keeneland's Ashland next target for Dancinginherdreams

Trainer John Ward said Thursday that his stakes-winning 3-year-old filly Dancinginherdreams continues to train forwardly since her second-place finish behind R Heat Lightning in the Grade 2 Davona Dale. Ward did not nominate Dancinginherdreams to the Grade 2 Gulfstream Oaks on April 2, opting instead to wait an extra week for the Grade 1 Ashland at Keeneland.

“That’s been the plan all along, two races here then give her six weeks and run her two turns for the first time down that short stretch at Keeneland in the Ashland,” said Ward.

Ward will use the Ashland as a final prep for the Kentucky Oaks on March 6.

A small but talented field is lining up for the Oaks, topped by R Heat Lightning and trainer Kiaran McLaughlin’s undefeated It’s Tricky. Other possible contenders include Beso Grande and Suncoast Stakes winner Wyomia.

Track officials, riders visit children’s hospital

A group of riders and track officials from Gulfstream Park presented a $50,000 donation to the Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital after spending the morning visiting children and their parents on Monday.

Gulfstream president and general manager Steve Calabro was joined at the facility by jockeys John Velazquez, Joe Bravo, Alex Solis, Javier Castellano, and Elvis Trujillo along with clerk of scales Victor Sanchez.

“To see the smiles on these kids faces, that means everything,” said Bravo.

Joe DiMaggio Hospital is recognized as a leader in treating the most complex and critical medical problems for children.

“It’s a pleasure to partner with the Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital,” said Calabro. “It’s always a rewarding and moving experience to see all the fine work done by the staff and the progress these children have made.”

◗ A fund raiser for equine dentist Barry Trotter, who has been diagnosed with leukemia, will be held at 6 p.m. on Monday at the Blue Anchor Restaurant in Delray Beach. The evening will include assorted raffles and karaoke.