There’s a quiet confidence about Ocean Bear. The colt with an effortless stride and two strong wins already under his belt now heads into the $175,000 Golden State Juvenile at Del Mar on Friday — and he’ll have plenty of company in the form of nine other ambitious Cal-breds.
The seven-furlong contest sits fifth on the 10-race Breeders’ Cup Future Stars Friday card, setting the stage for young California-bred talent to showcase their early potential on one of the year’s most anticipated racing weekends.
Ocean Bear the one to beat
Trained by George Papaprodromou, Ocean Bear has been all class in his three juvenile starts, posting two wins and a runner-up finish. The 5-2 morning-line favorite will break from post 2 under Umberto Rispoli, who knows the colt’s closing rhythm well. Expect to see him settle before unleashing that signature late kick in the stretch.
Competitive field loaded with promise
Among the challengers, Steve Knapp’s Fionello will look to rebound after finishing sixth when stretching slightly shorter last time. Irad Ortiz Jr. takes the reins this time, hoping to find a smoother trip.
Doug O’Neill, who fields a pair of entries, saddles Pavlovian (post 4, Juan Hernandez) and Thirsty Rebel (post 9, Abel Lezcano). Pavlovian was narrowly beaten last out after closing strongly late, while Thirsty Rebel — a dark bay colt who has yet to race beyond five furlongs — could be a factor if he handles the extra distance.
John Sadler’s Can’t Help Myself (post 5, Joel Rosario) brings consistent form, having led in his last race before tiring to third. His natural early speed may make him a pace player once again.
Rounding out the contenders, Mo Holland Drive, trained by Peter Miller, arrives off a confident win over six furlongs at Santa Anita. With Flavien Prat aboard, he’s another serious name to keep on the watchlist.
Stakes spotlight for California-bred talent
The Golden State Juvenile represents more than just prize money — it’s a showcase for California’s emerging racing stars. For Ocean Bear, a win here would mark his third career triumph and strengthen his reputation as one of the state’s most exciting young runners.
For more California racing coverage, stay tuned to RaceBuzz Horse Racing News.
