Princess Leia, the horse, works for second start

ARCADIA, Calif. – A maiden claimer with a memorable name is certain to draw attention at Santa Anita this winter.

Princess Leia, who was fifth in her debut at Los Alamitos last month, is nearing her second start. She is trained by Rafael Becerra, who claimed her for Craig Martin for $30,000 from her debut Dec. 11. The filly was bred by George and Charles Bolton.

George Bolton’s wife is named Leia. He said Thursday he named the filly for her, but most fans are likely to relate the filly’s name to the “Star Wars” films and the popular character played by Carrie Fisher, who died on Tuesday.

First trained by Bob Baffert, Princess Leia was beaten 8 1/4 lengths as a 2-1 shot in a 5 1/2-furlong sprint.

“We thought we could sneak her in there and win one,” George Bolton said. “I hate losing my horses.”

Princess Leia had her first workout since that race on Thursday, going a half-mile in 48.20 seconds at Santa Anita.

“She should be useful going long,” George Bolton said. “That’s my only advice.”