Victor Espinoza has ridden Teddy’s Promise twice, winning each time,
first in an overnight race at Hollywood Park on Nov. 15 at odds of
11-10, then in the Grade I La Brea Stakes at Santa Anita Dec. 31 at
16-1.
It seems like yesterday Espinoza was winning the Kentucky Derby
on War Emblem, but it was 2002. Now 39, the native of Mexico is enjoying
a resurgence under the guidance of agent Brad Pegram, who also
represents Hall of Fame rider Mike Smith.
“He’s a hard worker and it’s enjoyable working for him” said Pegram, who has had Espinoza’s book since last May.
Through 18 days of Santa Anita’s winter/spring meet, Espinoza was
tied for third in the standings with 13 victories and among the leaders
in win percentage at 18.
Next Saturday, Espinoza seeks win No. 3 on Teddy’s Promise in
the Grade I, $300,000 Santa Monica Stakes for older fillies and mares at
seven furlongs.
“It looks like the difference has been the rider,” Espinoza said,
laughing. “Seriously, she’s really nice. The first time I rode her, she
hadn’t run for a while and she ran a big race, although I really don’t
think Hollywood Park is her track.
“But with the heart she shows and the way she ran, it was very
impressive. I really liked her in the La Brea. She ran unbelievable that
day and I think she’s still improving. She’s getting better and better.
In past races, she was on the lead, but I think Ron’s figured out that
she’s better coming from off the pace. He’s done an unbelievable job
with her.”
Ron would be Ron Ellis, who trains Teddy’s Promise for owner/breeders Ted and Judy Nichols of Oceanside, California.
“You don’t want to fight her or take too much hold,” Espinoza
continued. “Ron told me to get her to relax and she’ll be a much better
filly, and that’s what’s happened. Her last three races (all wins), she
relaxed and finished unbelievable.”
As for Espinoza, he keeps on rolling.
“I’m always happy,” he said, “as long as I’m safe and healthy so I can ride horses, and trying to win races.”
Probable for the Santa Monica: Beat the Blues, Miguel Mena; Home
Sweet Aspen, Joel Rosario; Rumor, Mike Smith; She’s Cheeky, no rider;
Sugarinthemorning, Rafael Bejarano; and Teddy’s Promise, Espinoza.
Home Sweet Aspen worked six furlongs on Santa Anita’s fast main track Sunday in 1:13 for John Sadler.