TDN RISING STARS

June 20, 2009 - Hollywood Park, Race 7, Msw, USD $46,000, 6f

Hunch, C, 2009, by Lion Heart

1st Dam: Whattacapote, by Capote
2nd Dam: Zealous Connection, by Unreal Zeal
3rd Dam: Inca Connection, by High Counsel

Owner: CRK Stable
Breeder: Pennston Farm
Trainer: John Sadler

He made an impression at the 2007 KEESEP sale, going to CRK Stable for $440,000, and Hunch lived up to his looks with an impressive debut score. Rated just off the pace, the imposing dark bay angled outside off the turn and hit his best stride, drawing off under his own power to win by a measured 2 3/4 lengths over The Whammer (Grand Slam) as the 2-1 crowd's choice. "He ran real professionally, this horse," jockey Rafael Bejarano said. "He won so easy." Lifetime Record: 1-1-0-0, $27,600.