Freshman sire Shaman Ghost was represented by his first winner June 19 when Highland Yard's homebred Highland Ghost left four rivals in his wake June 19 in a $33,800 maiden special weight at Pleasanton.
Ridden by Kyle Frey in the open five-furlong event, 2-year-old Highland Ghost took the lead from the start and never looked back, setting fractions of :23.54 and :47.90 en route to a 3 1/2-length victory in a final time of :59.73 on a fast track.
It was the first dirt start and second career outing for the O. J. Jauregui trainee, who was the runner-up by 2 3/4 lengths May 28 going the same distance on the all-weather track at Golden Gate Fields.
Highland Ghost was bred in California out of the winning Include mare Wee Highland Lass, who has produced three winners from five starters. Highland Ghost was her last reported foal; she was reported bred to Curlin to Mischief for 2021.
Shaman Ghost, an Ontario-bred son of Ghostzapper , earned more than $3.8 million in 17 starts for owner/breeder Stronach Stables. The 2016 Woodward Stakes (G1) and the 2017 Santa Anita Handicap Presented by San Manuel Indian Bingo and Casino (G1) were among his top scores. He stands at Adena Springs North, where his advertised 2021 fee was CA$7,500 live foal stands and nurses.
