There’s something captivating about watching a young horse mature before your eyes — and Ocean Bear did just that on Friday at Del Mar. The two-year-old colt, trained by George Papaprodromou, continued his remarkable rise through the California ranks by capturing the Golden State Juvenile Stakes with poise and precision.
Under a patient and confident ride from Umberto Rispoli, the son of Bolt d’Oro settled into a comfortable rhythm early, tucked neatly behind the front-running Sammy Davis. As the field turned for home, Ocean Bear glided off the rail, responding instantly when asked, and surged clear to score by three-quarters of a length — his fourth consecutive top-two finish.
“It was a professional effort,” Rispoli said afterward. “He’s so calm now — just a different horse from his debut. When I asked, he gave everything. George has really brought him along beautifully.”
Golden State Glory for Papaprodromou and Rispoli
The $175,000 Golden State Juvenile Stakes, part of the CTBA’s lucrative Golden State Series for California-bred or sired two-year-olds, drew a quality field at seven furlongs. Ocean Bear ($6.60) delivered a composed yet commanding performance, clocking his fourth career start with characteristic maturity and power.
Sammy Davis (4-1), ridden by Hector Berrios, tried valiantly to hold off his rival after setting the early fractions but had to settle for second, half a length ahead of stablemate Can’t Help Myself (10-1), ridden by Joel Rosario. The latter closed well late to round out the trifecta.
Papaprodromou, visibly proud of his charge, praised both horse and rider:
“He rated right and when Umberto wanted to go, he slid out and finished strongly. Ocean Bear’s improving every race. Even today, he didn’t mind the crowd — he’s showing class and maturity. We’ll take things day by day, but I think he can handle more distance.”
From Promise to Proof
Ocean Bear’s journey began right here at Del Mar in August, when he finished runner-up to his stablemate Can’t Help Myself. Since then, he’s reeled off three straight victories — a testament to steady conditioning, patient handling, and his own natural ability.
Bred and owned by Richard Barton Enterprises, the Bolt d’Oro ridgling has now compiled a record of 4-3-1-0 and earnings of $200,350. Friday’s performance further solidified his place among California’s most promising two-year-olds — and perhaps, a name to remember beyond the state-bred ranks.
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