Del Mar: From Canterbury to Del Mar, and straight to winner’s circle
By: Steve Andersen
Vallestina won her debut at Canterbury Park by 17 1-2 lengths on June 24, prompting a private acquisition from Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners.
The filly rewarded her new owners and trainer – Michael McCarthy – with a two-length win in her California debut in a starter allowance at six furlongs for fillies and mares.
Ridden by Flavien Prat, Vallestina disputed the pace with Candy Boss for the first half-mile before edging clear. She won by two lengths over Candy Boss.