Hendricks ready for Shoemaker, Gamely stakes
Trainer Dan Hendricks is set to unleash Daytona and Lavender Sky with contrasting styles in the Shoemaker Mile and Gamely Stakes, respectively, $250,000, Grade I stakes on the Hollywood Park turf on Monday.
Daytona is expected to be on the pace in the Shoemaker while Lavender is expected to close from the rear in the nine-furlong Gamely for fillies and mares.
“I’ve got to hope for a light pace in his race and a strong pace in hers,” said Hendricks.
Daytona, an Irish-bred 4-year-old gelding, comes off a victory in the Arcadia Handicap at one mile on the Santa Anita turf April 5, his fifth in his last seven starts. Winner of the Grade I Hollywood Derby in November, the chestnut seeks to become the first horse to win that race and the Shoemaker.
Lavender Sky has been stakes-placed three times in Grade II competition. The 4-year-old chestnut filly has recorded two firsts, four seconds and four thirds in 12 starts.
