Rattataptap might cut back to sprint in La Brea

DEL MAR, Calif. – Rattataptap, who won a one-mile allowance race last weekend, could turn back to seven furlongs for the Grade 1 La Brea Stakes on Dec. 26, opening day of Santa Anita’s winter meeting, according to trainer Phil D’Amato.

Rattataptap, a 3-year-old by Tapit and out of a Broken Vow mare, has won three times in 11 starts.

“If we could get a Grade 1 placing or a win, that would be nice on her résumé,” said D’Amato. “I think she’ll be a better 4-year-old. She’s versatile. She can run on both turf and dirt.”

** Rafael Bejarano, who was atop the jockeys’ standings heading into the closing weekend, will sit out Dec. 4-6 at Los Alamitos after dropping the appeal of a three-day suspension he was assessed in August for careless riding during the summer Del Mar meeting.

Bejarano has won the last four summer titles at Del Mar and five overall.