Gaming gives Baffert a record 18th Del Mar Futurity (G1)

Gaming came home a 1 ¾-length winner in Sunday’s $300,000 Del Mar Futurity (G1) to win his stakes debut and remain undefeated in his two starts.

One of three horses from Baffert’s stable in the seven-furlong race for 2-year-olds, Gaming set off the early pace while his stablemate Getaway Car led through a half-mile in :44.35. The swift early pace took its toll on Getaway Car and Gaming took command at the top of the stretch. Gaming kicked clear and easily held off McKinzie Street to finish the distance in 1:23.02 on a fast track.

“He relaxed well; he was a bit on his toes before the race so I kept him quiet,” said winning jockey Flavien Prat. “Very straightforward, and leveled out nice. Bob just told me not to rush him and I thought I was in a good spot on my way around the corner. When he went off to his left lead I jumped on the bridle right away. After that I felt pretty much in control the whole way.”

Gaming, who has earned $225,000 in his two wins, is owned by Mike Pegram, Karl Watson and Paul Weitman. Gaming is a son of Game Winner, who Baffert trained to win the 2018 Futurity and would go on to be named that year’s champion 2-year-old male.