California Chrome is expected to return to the worktab Aug. 8 with his first official move since running fourth in the June 7 Belmont Stakes (gr. I), according to connections of the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) and Preakness Stakes (gr. I) winner.
The 3-year-old son of Lucky Pulpit had been on hiatus after injuring his foot and dead-heating for fourth with Wicked Strong in the Belmont. He spent time off at Harris Farms before returning to trainer Art Sherman's base at Los Alamitos Racecourse July 17.
Trained by Sherman for Steve Coburn and Perry Martin, and supervised by assistant Alan Sherman, the chestnut colt has been galloping at Los Al since his return. On Aug. 1 he had an unofficial blowout down the lane, going two furlongs in :26 and galloping out in :38 4/5.
Plans call for California Chrome to have one start before competing in the $5 million Breeders' Cup Classic (gr. I) to be run at Santa Anita Park Nov. 1. Although his connections have not yet announced where that start will be, main options include the Los Alamitos Mile during the Los Angeles County Fair meet Sept. 20 or the Awesome Again Stakes (gr. I) Sept. 27 at at Santa Anita.
