Encoder, Billy Batts rematch in Santa Anita's Zuma Beach

One-two finishers when last they met, Hronis Racing’s Encoder and Rockingham Ranch’s Billy Batts will renew acquaintances as they head a field of seven juveniles going one mile on turf in Sunday’s $100,000 Zuma Beach Stakes at Santa Anita.

Separated by a head in the one mile Del Mar Juvenile Turf Sept. 1, Encoder, who was off as the 3-5 favorite, again rates top billing with Flavien Prat riding back.

ENCODER 

Owner:  Hronis Racing, LLC                                                      

Trainer:  John Sadler

A first out five furlong turf maiden winner at 3-1 on Aug. 7, this Kentucky-bred colt by English Channel would appear to have any kind of future as he tries to remain unbeaten in his third start. Similar to his plan of attack first time out, Encoder was attentive to the pace in the Del Mar Juvenile Turf as the 3-5 favorite and pounced late with Prat, who has been aboard for both wins.

BILLY BATTS 

Owner:  Rockingham Ranch                                                   

Trainer:  Peter Miller

Off at 3-1 in the Del Mar Juvenile Turf, this ridgling by City Zip went to the front immediately, opened up by two lengths at the half mile and gave way grudgingly to Encoder in a game effort.  Based in Kentucky for his first three starts, Billy Batts broke his maiden two starts back going a mile on grass at Del Mar Aug. 10. He’ll be ridden for the first time on Sunday by Norberto Arroyo, Jr.