Mullins off to sharp start, sends out live firsters

DEL MAR, Calif. – Jeff Mullins had a strong opening week at Del Mar, with a pair of wins and a second in just four starts. He has two runners on Thursday’s card, both 4-year-old first-time starters whom the trainer expects to run well.

First up is the Elusive Warning gelding Satanta, who goes six furlongs against California-bred maidens in race 1.

“Acts like a solid horse,” Mullins said. “Everybody who gets on him loves him.”

Later, in race 4, Mullins unveils the Awesome Again filly Cellar Door in a five-furlong turf sprint for maiden fillies. She was a $525,000 buy as a 2-year-old two years ago.

“She acts like she’s doing well,” said Mullins, who said her debut was delayed by a pelvis injury at Santa Anita.

“I had five this year,” Mullins said referencing pelvis injuries. “I aimed for Del Mar. I didn’t run at Los Alamitos, and I kind of cooled it at Santa Anita. I didn’t want anything to happen, and I didn’t want to get kicked out.”