by Mark Ratzky, publicity, Cal Expo Harness

Sacramento, CA — An $11,464 carryover in the 20-cent Hi-Five with a $30,000 guaranteed gross pool puts the spotlight squarely on Saturday night’s (Jan. 16) ninth race at Cal Expo.

The carryover is courtesy of last Sunday evening’s nightcap. While the victorious Pismo Beach was not that hard to find at $11.40, the fact that favored Becky B Skipalong was off the ticket, coupled with 28-1 Lust finishing second and 4-1 Majestic Lass checking in fourth, was enough to make it unattainable.

Saturday’s ninth race finds a field of nine going postward with Windsun T Bird the 2-1 morning line favorite from the cozy rail slot. Brandon Bragg owns the 9-year-old mare with Luke Plano driving and training and she has been knocking on the door in her last two appearances.

******

Saturday’s Lonnie Beck Series is named for the late owner/breeder who was such a major influence in California harness racing.

Lonnie Beck was one of the most important owner/breeders of the last several decades while campaigning some of the top performers on the West Coast, including Givmewhatineed, his son Ivegotwhatuneed and Mel’s Best, just to name a few.

Bob Johnson was among his trainers and remembers him with much respect.

“Lonnie was a good owner and very important to California as an owner and a breeder, especially during the time we needed it most,” Johnson said. “I remember one year we went to the Harrisburg sale and he bought 12 horses to bring back here to race. He made a big difference.”

The opening leg of the Lonnie Beck Series; a $6,600 Filly-Mare Open Pace headed by Party Hangover Two and a $5,500 Open II Pace are the main attractions on Saturday night’s Cal Expo program.

There will be 11 races presented under the Watch and Wager LLC banner with a first post of 6:15 p.m.

The Lonnie Beck Series is designed for California Sire Stakes-eligible 3-year-olds and a field of six will face the starter. Bob Johnson sends out a pair in Mathachusetts and Allymyx’sliveintexas and they will be joined by Be My Lucky Lady from the Steve Wiseman barn; the Vickie Desomer-conditioned Rock Of Ages and One More Chance, who hails from the Junior Wilkinson shedrow.