by Mark Ratzky, publicity, Cal-Expo

Sacramento, CA — If you’re keeping track, that’s five straight trips to the winner’s circle for the 6-year-old trotting mare Hope Tu Place, who campaigns for Maurice Sigmon while residing at the Kennedy Lindsey barn.

It took Hope Tu Place a couple of starts at this meet to get her act together, but she’s on her game now for Lindsey.

“The drop in class certainly helped her, and you can tell she has a lot more confidence when she comes back from a win,” Kennedy related. “She’s a real nice mare with a good personality and easy to be around.”

Hope Tu Place stands out for a reason other than her recent hot streak.

“She’s easy to spot in my barn because she’s the only gray,” her mentor pointed out. “In fact, she’s the only gray horse I’ve ever trained.”

Another comeback for Challenge The King

Challenge The King, who has overcome enough adversity to be in a Dickens novel, is being readied for yet another comeback for owner Lisa Ehrlich and trainer Bob Johnson.

The 8-year-old trotter has returned to the winner’s circle following 25 of his 63 trips to the post with a 1:56 mark that was set here last year and he definitely has a fan club.

We’ll keep you updated on his progress in the coming weeks.

Siegel wins amateur finale

Congratulations to Long Last Look and Dave Siegel, who combined to capture last Saturday’s finale of the TVG Amateur series despite having to do their work from the No. 9 slot. Ron Lingle was the owner and trainer Earl Kennedy was re-united with Long Last Look via the claim box following the previous outing.

With the victory, Siegel earned the TVG Championship for 2010. Richard Bertrand finished second, Sue Boyce was third and Robert Stepien finished up fourth in the standings. These four will represent the local team in the East-West Driver’s Challenge next year.

Live racing resumes at Cal-Expo on Thursday (Sept. 30) and continues through Saturday (Oct. 2). Approximate post time is 5:45 p.m.