Blueskiesnrainbows gives Baffert record fifth Swaps S (G2) victory
Blueeskiesnrainbows, who earned his maiden victory last Dec. 11, became a graded stakes winner Thursday at Hollywood Park and giving Bob Baffert his record-setting fifth victory in the $150,000 Swaps S.
The 3-year-old English Channel colt led throughout the nine furlong contest, prevailing by three-quarters of a length over Nonios in 1:50.89.
“Joe (Talamo) did a great job of slowing it down,” said Baffert. “I thought I could run first and second, but Liaison (Baffert’s third place finisher) kind of struggled a little bit with the slow pace. I was a little disappointed, but they ran their races. I’ll get them down to Del Mar and decide what to do with them.”
“(Bob) told me to sit still until he switches leads and to save as much horse as you can until the last part,’’ added Talamo. “That’s pretty much what we did. I appreciate the opportunity they gave me with him.”
Prior to the Swaps, Blueskiesnrainbows was off the board in the May 4 American Turf (G2) and finished third in the Santa Anita Derby (G1) behind eventual dual classic winner I’ll Have Another.
Blueskiesnrainbows earned his third win in eight starts for Bad Boy Racing LLC and Whizway Farms. He has now earned $221,242.
Baffert’s previous wins in the Swaps came with Misremembered (2009), During (2003), Congaree (2001), and Captain Steve (2000).