When you think about running a gal against the boys, you better have been tested. This race gave trainer Bobby Frankel and rider Mike Smith the results of the acid test.

The Santa Anita Oaks was a great place to see her making… This was no off day with luck. This was a solid test..

Bobby Frankel is as cool as the other side of the pillow. He does not get flustered, and his gal Stardom Bound is not bothered. After all, it was just another day at the office.

Frankel and IEAH stables have been contemplating facing the boys. I think she has the mustard, but you must be tested.. This was the plan.

She broke last of nine, and stayed at the back of the pack. The grey started getting in the game just before the 3/8ths at :47 flat. The pace was not torrid, and she started her engine. At the top of the lane (1:12), she floated a little wider than usual. When I say a little wide, try about 8 wide…

Getting busy down the lane, Smith has been here a thousand times before, but not aboard a rocket every time. With a 1/16th left it looks as if she would run well, but come up a bit short. She was somewhere in the upper grandstand, and gets up right at the wire. The good ones always find a way to win. That is what separates them from the rest.

This was her fifth consecutive G-1 victory. This looked good. I don’t want to see an easy romp every time. I like to see them give their all, and come back and get some well deserved rest. Barring any injury, I think she may be the deal. There are many out there that can call her number at any time, but they are going to have to earn this.