'Special' looks out and gone

VANCOUVER, British Columbia - Notis Otis, the local juvenile champ in 2004, was scheduled to make his 3-year-old debut in the City of Vancouver Stakes on Sunday. But when only one other horse entered the $40,000 sprint for British Columbia-breds, management at Hastings decided to scrap the race. Instead, a $20,000 claiming race for fillies and mares highlights the eight-race card.

Double 'd' Special, who is trained by Dino Condilenios, looks like a standout in the 6 1/2-furlong feature. She appears to be the lone speed in the six-horse field, and the 4-year-old daughter of Stephanotis signaled that she's ready for a big effort with an excellent five-furlong move in 1:00.80 over a good track April 9.

Double 'd' Special runs well fresh, as evidenced by her strong showing in a maiden special weight race last May 8. Coming off of a 6 1/2-month layoff, she led most of the way but was nosed out at the wire by Skyhala. She subsequently beat straight maidens by four lengths June 12. Her best effort versus winners was a second-place finish in a $35,000 claiming race Aug. 14.

A B.C.-bred filly, Double 'd' Special hasn't raced since November. Frank Fuentes rides.

Bamboo Orient looks like the main threat. A daughter of Vying Victor, Bamboo Orient had a brief 3-year-old campaign last year, running four times before being turned out following a dull effort in a $50,000 optional route June 13.