Los Angeles Dodger right-hander Brad Penny experienced his first-ever win as a Thoroughbred owner when his 3-year-old gelding Excess Temptations broke his maiden last June at Hollywood Park.
Thursday at Oak Tree, Penny experienced victory first hand, as Excess Temptations won the featured seventh race, a $45,000 allowance at one mile on the turf. "This is my first time to win in person," said Penny, who co-owns the horse with several partners, including breeder John Harris. "It's outstanding, it's fun. I get more nervous watching this than I do when I'm playing. Out here you don't have any control...that's what makes it so addicting."
Penny, who was casually clad in a Del Mar T-shirt, said he stayed away from the betting windows. "This is the first time I haven't bet on him, but it's still great," he said.
The 3-2 favorite Excess Temptations was ridden by Patrick Valenzuela, who did not ride last week due to injury. It was Valenzuela's fifth win on the card.
"It feels really good not to be riding with a sore foot," Valenzuela said. "It feels good to be back. I'm riding good horses right now ... this sets us up good for the Breeders' Cup."