Zoning In reverses decision in Malcolm Anderson

SAN MATEO, Calif. - Zoning In ($22.20), a runner-up in his racing debut, became a stakes winner in his second start, capturing the $70,350 Malcolm Anderson Stakes at Bay Meadows on Saturday.

A $17,000 yearling purchase at last October's Barretts Sale, the Cal-bred Zoning In and Youandiatdelmar turned the five-furlong race for 2-year-olds into their personal match race.

Youandiatdelmar led by a head through the opening 21.65 quarter. Zoning In, racing along the rail, had his head in front turning for home and was three-quarters of a length in front at the finish. The winning time was 57.46 with Hot Flame another 2 (two one-half) lengths back.

"Once I got position inside of Youandiatdelmar, I knew I was in good shape," winning jockey Frank Alvarado said. "He relaxed, and I just waited as long as I could before asking him."

Jockey Kerwin John said he hoped to take the lead and get to the rail, but Youandiatdelmar stumbled at the start, and he "couldn't get there."

Trainer Ed Moger Jr. said he was "very confident" going into the race even though Zoning In had lost to Love That Gin, another member of the field, in his debut.

"I thought he might need one the first time. He's a big, strong horse, and I thought he would improve," Moger said.

Zoning In earned $42,900 for owner Curt and Lila Lanning and has now earned $50,700 with a victory and second in two races.