You're Late gets great trip to win CTBA Stakes

DEL MAR, Calif. – You’re Late was right on time on Friday at Del Mar, as the improving 2-year-old filly won her second straight race, and first in a stakes, when capturing the $98,000 California Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association Stakes.

You’re Late ($8.40) took advantage of the outside post in the field of five and had a clear trip in a race in which at least two key rivals either broke poorly or did not appear to like being inside. Out where the air was fresh and clean under jockey Stewart Elliott, she stalked Love a Honeybadger and My California before rolling past them and going on to win by 3 1/4 lengths in 1:04.64 for 5 1/2 furlongs on the fast main track.

“I think it’s a great situation for any young horse to have that post,” winning trainer Jeff Bonde said.

Love a Honeybadger was second, 3 1/4 lengths in front of My California, the 3-5 favorite who did not appear to like being inside in the early going. Cioppino Pasadino was fourth, with I’ll Be Around last after stumbling at the start.

You’re Late was making her third start. She was favored in her debut May 19, but finished third behind Love a Honeybadger and My California. In her second start June 16, she sped to the front and never looked back when beating maidens. Both those Santa Anita races, as with Friday’s stakes race at Del Mar, were against California-breds.

“She’s always done everything we’ve asked,” Bonde said. “She’s not a large filly. In her first start she broke a step slow. Second time, she broke well, and beat California Chrome’s full sister,” Bonde said, referring to R Sunday Surprise, who is entered in Cal-bred maiden race here on Saturday.

You’re Late, a daughter of Lucky Pulpit, was bred and is owned by Larry and Marianne Williams.