Long layoff proves to be no problem for Little Natalia

After Little Natalia made an unsuccessful debut at Gulfstream Park last July, she went to the bench and didn’t return until yesterday, in the first race at Tampa Bay Downs. Based on that first effort, the 3-year-old Handsome Mike filly should have been a healthy price for her second try, especially after such a long layoff.

But Little Natalia turned in a series of good works at Gulfstream, including a bullet 36.90 for three furlongs on March 26. As a result, she was bet down to a 2-1 second choice for her six-furlong comeback.

With Antonio Gallardo aboard, Little Natalia rushed to the lead from the inside, posting a solid fraction of :23.14 for the first quarter. She continued in front the rest of the way without a real challenge, and as she was drawing off to an easy maiden-breaking score in the stretch, announcer Richard Grunder chimed in with “well-prepared after the layoff.” The final margin was 8 1/2 lengths.

Little Natalia became Handsome Mike’s 16th winner this year, earning a check for $6,900 plus a breeders’ award for Ed Seltzer, Beverly Anderson and Joe and Helen Barbazon.