TDN RISING STARS

September 4, 2006 - Del Mar, Race 6, Msw, USD $56,000, 1m

Malt Magic, c, 2, 2004 by Cherokee Run

1st Dam: La Cucina (Ire), by Last Tycoon (Ire)
2nd Dam: Fandangerina, by Grey Dawn II
3rd Dam: Prima Ballerina, by Royal Vale

Owner: Zayat Stables LLC
Breeder: Domino Stud of Lexington LLC (KY)
Trainer: Bob Baffert

The third time was indeed the charm for Malt Magic, who could not have been more impressive in carrying Victor Espinoza to his sixth straight win on Del Mar's penultimate card. Third to Prime Ruler in his Aug. 5 career opener, the dark bay was 1-2 Aug. 20, but proved fractious before the start and had to settle for second. The 8-5 favorite secured the lead heading into the first turn and showed the way through splits of :46.70 and 1:11.42. He eased a bit further ahead on the far turn and really opened up in the lane under a hand ride. Espinoza took him in hand late, but not before Malt Magic had 9 1/2 lengths in the end over Entourage (A.P. Indy). A $320,000 KEESEP yearling, the Zayat colorbearer is a half-brother to Lady Linda (Torrential), MGSP, $307,377; and full to Sir Cherokee, B, MGSW, $628,296. Lifetime Record: 3-1-1-1, $53,560.