Seeking the Sherif eyes stakes

Seeking the Sherif is moving closer to a stakes appearance after winning his fourth consecutive race in an optional claimer last Friday.

Ridden by Edwin Maldonado, Seeking the Sherif led throughout the race over 6 1/2 furlongs, winning by 2 3/4 lengths in 1:15.73. The optional claimer was the longest race in the eight-race career of Seeking the Sherif, who was claimed for $12,500 last December.

“His confidence is sky high,” trainer Ron Ellis said.

Seeking the Sherif races for Steve Zolotas, Sabina Romo-Zolotas, and Tim Goodwin. A 5-year-old by Officer, Seeking the Sherif has earned $130,600 since being claimed.

After Friday’s win, Ellis was reluctant to announce a stakes goal for Seeking the Sherif. In coming weeks, the options could include the $300,000 Triple Bend Stakes over seven furlongs here on June 28, and the $300,000 Bing Crosby Stakes over six furlongs at Del Mar on July 27.