San Diego shapes up as compelling race

DEL MAR, Calif. – Catch a Flight is shortening up. Bayern and Sahara Sky are stretching out. Those three, plus the likes of Hoppertunity, make the Grade 2, $200,000 San Diego Handicap on Saturday a compelling race, even more so considering it is the local prep for the biggest race of the meet, the Grade 1, $1 million Pacific Classic on Aug. 22.

The San Diego, at 1 1/16 miles, sees Bayern, the Breeders’ Cup Classic winner, try to reverse his poor form in two prior starts this year, both around one turn.

“I think running him short was a mistake,” trainer Bob Baffert said. “I think he’ll be better around two turns. I hope.”

Martin Garcia will be aboard Bayern, who despite his recent setbacks is still the highweight at 123 pounds. Baffert also trains Hoppertunity, who will have Mike Smith up and carry 121 pounds. Catch a Flight was third last time out in the 1 1/4-mile Gold Cup at Santa Anita on June 27. He was assigned 120 pounds, with Gary Stevens set to ride. Sahara Sky, winless in his last five starts, will try two turns after finishing fifth behind Masochistic in the seven-furlong Triple Bend. James Graham will ride him for the first time. He was given 117 pounds.

Others considering the race include Appealing Tale, Kung Fu Mambo, Majestic City, and Sammy Mandeville.

Also Saturday is the $200,000 Fleet Treat Stakes for California-bred 3-year-old fillies. Among those expected for the seven-furlong race are Ashley’s Sassy, Big Book, Kiss at Midnight, Long Hot Summer, Patsy G and Me, and Sheer Pleasure.