Declan’s Moon strolls at Hollywood
Jay Em Ess Stable’s DECLAN’S MOON (Malibu Moon) moved to the
fore turning for home and waltzed home an authoritative winner of
the $100,000 Hollywood Prevue S. (G3) on Saturday. Trained by Ron
Ellis, the gelding was content to rate through the early stages
as Bushwacker (Outflanker) led the field through splits of :21 4/5
and :44 1/5 to the half-mile.
As that one began to tire ever so slightly, Victor Espinoza
took full advantage and Declan’s Moon opened up a clear lead by
midstretch, eventually pulling away to a two-length tally under
minimal urging. The overwhelming 2-5 choice completed seven fast
furlongs in a swift 1:21 3/5 and gave back a paltry $2.80, $2.20
and $2.10 while topping the $16.60 exacta ($1) and $43.50 for the
5-8-6 trifecta ($1).
Bushwacker held on gamely to garner the place, giving back $6.20
and $2.60 at 16-1, while Seize the Day (Montbrook) came again on
the outside to get the show, worth $2.20 at 3-1. Southern Africa
(Cape Town) was next and trailed by Megabyte (Chief Seattle),
Beat the Chalk (Valid Wager), Twice Unbridled (Unbridled’s Song)
and Power Wave (All Thee Power).
Declan’s Moon is now unbeaten from three starts, including a
tally in the Del Mar Futurity (G2) in his outing prior to this one. The
dark bay increased his bankroll to $239,400 following the win.
Bred in Maryland by Brice Ridgely, the winner fetched a bid of
$125,000 at the 2003 Fasig-Tipton Midlantic September Yearling
Sale. He was produced from the Grade 2-placed Vee Vee Star (Norquestor)
and has a yearling half-brother named Dave’s Jet (Unbridled
Jet).
Declan’s Moon is being pointed toward the December 18
Hollywood Futurity (G1), where he is expected to meet Breeders’
Cup Juvenile (G1) winner Wilko (Awesome Again) and Champagne S. (G1)
victor Proud Accolade (Yes It’s True). The unbeaten dark bay
would make a strong case for champion two-year-old honors with a
victory there.