'TDN Rising Star' Taiba (Gun Runner) will contest next Saturday's GI TVG.com Haskell Invitational S., trainer Bob Baffert confirmed to Monmouth Park officials Friday. The $1.7-million FTFMAR purchase by Zedan Racing Stables took the GI Runhappy Santa Anita Derby in just his second start, but was last seen finishing 12th in the GI Kentucky Derby May 7. Those last two starts came for trainer Tim Yakteen, who took over training of the colt during Baffert's recent suspension.
“I hadn't seen him in a long time. I'm happy with the way he looks,” said Baffert, who owns a record nine Haskell trophies.
Taiba breezed five panels Friday at Santa Anita in :59.40 (2/55).
“I worked Taiba today and he worked really well,” Baffert said. “He came out of it well. He's happy. I'm happy with him.”
Baffert sent out Taiba to a 7 1/2-length debut drubbing Mar. 5.
“He's a special horse. He was asked to do a tall task in the Derby. The Derby was crazy. It was a stampede,” Baffert said. “He showed what he could do in the Santa Anita Derby off just one race…This is the time of year when the 3-year-olds start to shine. I think he's up for the Haskell and he's coming to the Haskell.”
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