Coliseum could be the real deal in Sham Stakes

Exciting three-year-old colt Coliseum is out to consolidate on an impressive debut as he steps up to the G3 Sham Stakes on dirt at Santa Anita, USA, on Saturday, 5 January. 

The Bob Baffert-trained son of Tapit stretches out to a mile following a comprehensive victory in a seven-furlong dirt maiden at Del Mar on 17 November, when he made most of the running to score very easily by six and three quarter lengths. 

Joe Talamo, on board for that victory, takes the ride again on the grey Coliseum, who breaks from stall five in a field of seven that also includes G1 American Pharoah Stakes runner-up Gunmetal Gray and G3 Bob Hope Stakes second Savagery. 

Godolphin USA President Jimmy Bell reported: “Coliseum could not be doing any better and Bob Baffert is very pleased with him. 

“This is a big step up on just his second start, going from a maiden to a Graded race, and we are very interested in seeing him try to take the next step on the ladder.

“The Sham Stakes looks a good spot and the increase in distance looks a good progression for Coliseum as well. 

“We are all convinced that he is a very talented individual, but it is a big step up mentally in terms of how he handles this level of competition. 

“He has a great post position and we are looking forward to seeing how he runs on his three-year-old return.”