Harlington’s Rose All Set for Melair Stakes

Harlington’s Rose, runner-up in the Evening Jewel Stakes on April 5, worked a half-mile on Santa Anita’s main track last Saturday under exercise rider Fernando Serna in 48.20 seconds as she prepared for this Saturday’s $250,000 Melair Stakes for California-bred or sired 3-year-old fillies.

“She finished six furlongs in 1:10.37 and galloped out seven-eighths in 1:28 2/5,” said trainer Steve Knapp. “It was a very solid work. She’s ready.”

As to how Knapp hopes to turn the tables on Rovenna, who outsprinted Harlington’s Rose in the 6 ½-furlong Evening Jewel: “We just have to hope that someone goes with Rovenna on the front end. I think there’s plenty of speed in the race, and my horse has learned how to relax, so we’ll be fine.”

The field for the Melair, the ninth of 11 races starting at 1 p.m.: Swiss Lake Yodeler, Rafael Bejarano; Rovenna, Victor Espinoza; Wonderful Lie, Corey Nakatani; Magic Spot, Mike Smith; Anniversary Kitty, Martin Garcia; Versye, Mario Gutierrez; Shakeitupbetty, Joe Talamo; and Harlington’s Rose, Tyler Baze.