Purely Cozzene Romps in La Jolla

Over firm turf, Purely Cozzene led at every call of the $150,000 La Jolla Handicap (gr. IIIT) Saturday at Del Mar, completing the 1 1/16-mile race in 1:41.50 under David Flores. The 3 year-old son of Cozzene, out of the Turkoman mare Purer Than Pure, won by three lengths over betting favorite Duke of Green. Sign of Hope finished third, followed by Generations, Truly Believe, Loyal Tartare, and Jekyll and Hyde. Both On Time Airline and Safarando did not finish. Safarando was vanned off the track.

The win marks Purely Cozzene's sixth in 13 races. The chestnut colt has previously won the Will Rogers Handicap (gr. IIIT), the $200,000 USA Stakes, and two restricted stakes -- the $85,000 La Puente and the $54,000 Pinjara -- all on turf. Purely Cozzene is trained by Bob Baffert and earned $90,000 for owners Ed and Natalie Friendly. Purely Cozzene was bred in Kentucky by Ted Taylor.

The second wagering choice, Purely Cozzene returned $8.20, $3.80, and $3. The $1 exacta combination paid $9.60. (Chart, Equibase)