Maiden King

It was only his third attempt at maiden claimers, but it took #8 Magna Cum Laude sixteen races to earn his diploma. Trainer Robert Hess got this gelding from Aidan O’Brien who had been running him in sprint races on the Irish courses — Fairyhouse, Dundalk and Naas.

Magna Cum Laude was given lasix, which is illegal in Ireland, but didn’t hit the board in six Southern California tries against maiden special weights — five of which were on the grass. 

Hess dropped him to maiden claiming on Oct. 26 and the horse responded with a clear lead for most of the 7-furlong race, as he tried to wire the field but faded to third. On Monday, jockey Chantal Sutherland put Magna Cum Laude back on the lead and he survived a late run by #1 Larrylarrylarry to hit the winner’s circle. 

I bet $300 on Larrylarrylarry, who went off at 4-to-1, and he ran well to finish second. I also considered #10 Six Pack Man, but he was bet below my minimum odds of 2-to-1.

To watch a replay of this race, go to www.calracing.com