Turf Paradise: Scheduke of 40 stakes topped by Phoenix Gold Cup

Turf Paradise unveiled a stakes lineup comprising 40 events worth over $1.5 million for its upcoming 2012-2013 meet. The 156-day stand commences Oct. 5 and runs through May 7, 2013. Live racing at the Phoenix track will be conducted primarily five days a week, Friday through Tuesday, with a first post of 12:30 p.m.

As usual, the roster is headed by the $75,000 Phoenix Gold Cup. The six-furlong main-track event is slated for its 57th running next Feb. 16. Also on that day’s card will be the $35,000 Turf Paradise and $35,000 Sun City handicaps.

The meet’s other top event, the $75,000 Cotton Fitzsimmons Mile, named for the late Phoenix Suns coach and executive who was a fixture at the track, will be renewed Jan. 12 at a mile on the turf.

Three-year-olds get their day in the sun Feb. 23 with the $75,000 Turf Paradise Derby for males at 1 1/16 miles and $35,000 Arizona Oaks for 3-year-old fillies at a mile.