T.H. Approval prevails in Sunset

T.H. Approval, the star of trainer Eduardo Inda's four-horse stable, is gaining that status in turf marathons in California. Sunday at Hollywood Park, T.H. Approval won his second stakes of the year in the Grade 2, $159,700 at 1 1/2 miles on turf.

Earlier this year, T.H. Approval defended his title in the San Juan Capistrano Handicap at about 1 3/4 miles on turf at Santa Anita. In the Sunset, T.H. Approval ($4.60) won by 1 1/2 lengths over Molengao. Wild Buddy, who led by as many as six lengths, held third in the field of nine. Ridden by Alex Solis, T.H. Approval was sixth for the first mile, moved closer to the leaders on the final turn, and took the lead in early stretch. He was timed in 2:26.65.

Owned by Tadahiro Hotehama, T.H. Approval, 5, has won 6 of 24 starts and $664,708. He will be pointed to the $250,000 Del Mar Handicap at 1 3/8 miles on turf at Del Mar on Aug. 27, Inda said.