Mischief River pointed to Best Pal off maiden score

CYPRESS, Calif. – Mischief River’s appearance in a maiden race for 2-year-olds at Los Alamitos on Saturday led to both a learning experience and a victory. The colt is set for a stakes appearance next month at Del Mar.

Trainer James Glenn Jr. said Mischief River will be pointed to the Grade 3 Best Pal Stakes at six furlongs on Aug. 11, a key prep for the Grade 1 Del Mar Futurity on Sept. 8.

On Saturday, Mischief River ($16.60) was near the front throughout a five-furlong race, winning by 1 1/2 lengths over race favorite Privman. Mischief River’s behavior on the turn, when he dropped back slightly before continuing his run, left Glenn momentarily concerned.

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“On the turn, he got a little bit green,” he said. “There was a hold-your-breath moment.”

Ridden by Cesar Ortega, Mischief River recovered quickly to take a two-length lead with a furlong remaining. He was timed in 57.90 seconds.

“When he asked him, he went through,” Glenn said.

Mischief River, by Into Mischief, races for Chris Galpin’s Bow River Ranch and Glenn, who is best known for his success with Quarter Horses at Los Alamitos.

Glenn is winless with six starters at Del Mar in his career. Mischief River will be his first starter in a stakes. He admitted to having heightened nerves in advance of Mischief River’s win.

“I had sweat beads on my forehead,” he said. “When they get here, they have to do it. We feel really blessed.”

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