Maximum Security Showing No Signs of Wear
Image:
Description:
Photo: Benoit Photo
Abel Cedillo guides Maximum Security to the winner's circle after the Pacific Classic at Del Mar
Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert has been bragging about his new charge. Maximum Security practically dragged handlers back to the barn Aug. 22 after winning the TVG Pacific Classic Stakes (G1) and was fine in the Sunday morning light.
And as an example of the strength and fitness of the 4-year-old colt by New Year's Day, Baffert pointed out that he was not breathing deeply as he returned to pose in front of the infield board after posting a three-length victory.
Baffert also said that as gratifying and emotional as the Pacific Classic win was—it brought tears to the eyes of co-owners Gary and Mary West—it was not the most impressive of Maximum Security's two-race Del Mar tour de force.
"The most impressive race was the San Diego (G2)," Baffert said. "He was inside, got stopped, had to overcome trouble and a slow track, and still won."
Comparatively, the Pacific Classic, Maximum Security's second start for Baffert and second with Abel Cedillo in the irons, was a day at the beach. From post 5, Maximum Security broke alertly and Cedillo was able to get to the lead and never relinquish it.
The inevitable next questions of what and where for his next start—and will it be at a place where Cedillo or Luis Saez will ride—will be left for another day. Baffert mentioned the Oct. 10 Jockey Club Gold Cup Stakes (G1) at Belmont Park as a prelim to the Longines Breeders' Cup Classic (G1)—the Pacific Classic was a "Win and You're In" qualifier for the Nov. 7 race at Keeneland. But he's not making any commitments.
"I'm not sure yet," Baffert said.
Mark Glatt, the trainer of runner-up Sharp Samurai, said the 6-year-old gelding who was making his fourth start on dirt also came out of the race in good order.