HORSES TO WATCH

DEL MAR

SUMMER FIRE

Trainer: Bob Hess Jr.

Last race: Nov. 8, 1st

Finish: 2nd by 1 3/4

Beyer: 61

An improving Californiabred maiden 2-year-old, he ran well after bobbling at start. Recovered, raced midfield, split rivals at quarter pole, narrowed gap, finished 12 lengths clear. Ready to graduate.

GUITTY

Trainer: Leonard Powell

Last race: Nov. 9, 4th

Finish: 1st by 1 3/4

Beyer: 66

Although she must learn to settle, quirky 2-year-old turf filly has stakes potential. Pulled hard most of mile race, lost ground rallying wide on far turn, stormed home. Up the ladder.

ABSOLUTE UNIT

Trainer: Peter Eurton

Last race: Nov. 9, 5th

Finish: 4th by 9

Beyer: 65

Debut 2-year-old with solid works flashed speed, dueled inside, tired in lane. Progeny of Will Take Charge not known to win first out; Absolute Unit should improve with racing.

CARDIFF CAY

Trainer: Don Chatlos

Last race: Nov. 10, 3rd

Finish: 3rd by 1 1/2

Beyer: 79

Shipper from New York got stopped and shuffled at quarter pole of maiden turf route for older, re-rallied outside, finished well. Follow in maiden route at nine furlongs or more.

GOALIE

Trainer: Phil D’Amato

Last race: Nov. 10, 9th

Finish: 8th by 4

Beyer: 62

Maiden 2-year-old had impossible trip in turf route. Off slowly, blocked far turn, blocked into lane, never had a clear path. Sibling to Grade 1 winner Midnight Storm is much better than looked.

ROYAL ACT

Trainer: Peter Eurton

Last race: Nov. 10, 9th

Finish: 1st by 1/2

Beyer: 70

Highly regarded 2-year-old colt by American Pharoah lost ground throughout mile turf route and inched clear late in solid debut. Likely to run next at Santa Anita winter meet. Much potential.

– Brad Free