There’s a quiet confidence surrounding Ocean Bear this week at Santa Anita Park. The striking colt from George Papaprodromou’s stable has been showing all the signs of a youngster coming into his own — composed, sharp, and just a touch hungrier than before. When he steps into the gate for the seven-furlong Breeders’ Cup Future Stars Friday Cal-Bred race, he’ll not only be chasing a $175,000 purse but also looking to cement his place among California’s best juveniles.
Morning-line favorite at 5-2, Ocean Bear brings two victories and a runner-up finish from just three career starts. He’ll have Umberto Rispoli in the irons once more, and from post two, the pair will look to unleash their trademark late surge. Papaprodromou’s barn has been in good rhythm this fall, and confidence in the colt’s finishing power is high.
“He’s got a real fighter’s heart,” Papaprodromou said earlier this week. “He relaxes early and knows when to turn it on — that’s rare for a young horse.”
Field of ten ready for action
Ten Cal-Bred juveniles will face the starter in Race 5 on Friday’s Breeders’ Cup Future Stars card, each eager for a piece of the $175,000 pot. Fionello, trained by Steve Knapp, will look to rebound from a sixth-place finish last time out. The son of Stay Thirsty will have Irad Ortiz Jr. taking over the ride, hoping for a sharper performance over the extra furlong.
Trainer Doug O’Neill sends out two hopefuls: Pavlovian, who drew post four with Juan Hernandez aboard after a narrow defeat last start, and Thirsty Rebel, who lines up from post nine with Abel Lezcano in the saddle. The latter steps up in trip after running second over five furlongs, a test that should help reveal his staying credentials.
From John Sadler’s yard comes Can’t Help Myself, a colt who has shown tenacity in front-running roles. Drawn in post five under Joel Rosario, he’ll aim to hold his position better after tiring to third in his latest outing.
Mo Holland Drive looking for repeat success
Another to watch is Mo Holland Drive, representing trainer Peter Miller. The colt impressed in his last start, drawing clear over six furlongs at Santa Anita under Flavien Prat. The pair reunite for this test, which should suit the colt’s smooth cruising style and late acceleration.
With pace up front and plenty of late closers in the mix, the race promises a captivating finish — one that could see Ocean Bear storming home again if the race unfolds to his liking.
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