Grade 1-winning multi-millionaire Gold Phoenix (IRE) worked for the second time since finishing fourth in the Del Mar Handicap (G2) on Aug. 29. The aspirant for the Oct. 31 Breeders’ Cup Turf (G1) was clocked going five furlongs Sunday on Santa Anita’s synthetic training track in 1:00.40.
Gold Phoenix won back-to-back graded stakes before being upended in the 1 3/8-mile Del Mar Handicap. He finished fourth, beaten about one length.
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Earlier this week, trainer Phil D’Amato said Gold Phoenix was doing well “and we’re just looking to see if he’s fresh as a daisy and ready to go, then we’ll go to the Breeders’ Cup. If he needs more time, we’ll wait for the marathon at Del Mar (the G2 Hollywood Turf Cup on Nov. 27.).”
Multiple graded stakes winner Queen Maxima worked for the first time since returning from a summer break at Kingfisher Farms in Solvang, Calif. Trained by Jeff Mullins, Queen Maxima worked three furlongs on the synthetic training track in :36 flat.
Mullins said Queen Maxima returned to Santa Anita about 30 days ago. The 6-year-old Bucchero mare hasn’t started since May 16 when she won the Mizdirection (L) on the hillside turf course at Santa Anita.
Also rejoining Mullins barn after a summer break at Kingfisher Farms was Intrepido, winner of last year’s American Pharoah (G1) at Santa Anita, Intrepido hasn’t started since finishing 16th in the Kentucky Derby on May 2 at Churchill Downs. Mullins said he arrived back at Santa Anita about two weeks ago.
This story was originally published by Paulick Report on Oct 4, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Paulick Report as a Preferred Source by clicking here.