March 4, 2024 — Well beaten in her U.S. debut last month, Phil D’Amato’s English-bred Granny Budgie showed marked improvement in Monday’s $67,000 Santa Anita allowance feature as she rallied for a three quarter length victory under Victor Espinoza, getting six furlongs over a turf course upgraded to “firm” in 1:09.67.
“She needed that last race, it was her first race in this country and I think it tightened her up a lot for this spot today,” said D’Amato, who registered his second turf win on the day and his 18th of the meet.