Triple Tap could join the Malibu fray

ARCADIA, Calif. – Flightline is not the only 2-for-2 Tapit colt training for the Grade 1 Malibu Stakes on Dec. 26 at Santa Anita. But whether Triple Tap actually runs in the Malibu is another matter entirely.

Sired by Tapit and a sibling to Triple Crown winner American Pharoah, Triple Tap scored a sparkling allowance win on Nov. 5 at Del Mar, six furlongs in 1:08.44 to earn a 97 Beyer Speed Figure. Triple Tap is bred and owned by Summer Wind Equine of Jane Lyon, who prefers not racing her horses against one another.

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Lyon is part-owner of Flightline, the brilliant Tapit colt who worked another bullet five furlongs early this week at Santa Anita for John Sadler. Flightline and Triple Tap both won maiden and allowance races.

Trainer Bob Baffert said Triple Tap “is a Malibu contender, and I am preparing him for it, but will wait and see.” A decision to start or pass will be made after consultation with Lyon.

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Flavien Prat, regular rider for Malibu candidates Flightline, Triple Tap, and Dr. Schivel, will ride Flightline. Dr. Schivel’s trainer Mark Glatt said this week no decision has been made regarding a jockey.