Mandella starts off Brazilian import Royal Ship in Del Mar Mile

The Grade 2 Del Mar Mile on Sunday was not trainer Richard Mandella’s first objective with the Brazilian Group 1 winner Royal Ship.

Earlier this month, Mandella entered Royal Ship in an optional claimer, but when the race failed to draw sufficient entries the $150,000 Del Mar Mile became a viable option.

Judging from Royal Ship’s form in Brazil last winter, the 4-year-old colt belongs in the Del Mar Mile. Royal Ship, who races for Fox Hill Farms and Siena Farm, has won his last five starts, including the Group 1 Estado do Rio de Janeiro at about a mile on turf in his final start in Brazil in February.

Mandella has been encouraged by Royal Ship’s recent progress, going so far as to say the colt is far from a peak performance.

“I think he’s still got a little bit of room to go,” Mandella said. “He’s one of the most interesting horses I’ve had to bring along in such a long time.

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“He’s shown ability. He’s training very well.”

Royal Ship is part of a competitive field in the Del Mar Mile. Royal Ship, who will be ridden by Mike Smith, has had fast workouts at Del Mar in the last month.

“The way he trains on the dirt makes me anxious to see him try that someday,” Mandella said.