Claudius Augustus is pretty busy these days. In addition to his training and racing at Cal-Expo, the classy trotter is shuffling off to the Desomer Farm on a frequent basis for stallion duty.
The seven-year-old carries the banner of Debra Budahn with Bob Johnson the conditioner, and this unusual schedule is nothing new for the trainer.
“I went through this with Givemewhatineed for two seasons,” Johnson explained. “You just learn to work the schedule around it. I’ll tell you one thing, he’s making more noise around the barn these days, and when it’s time to leave, he knows what it’s all about now and really perks up.”
The roster of mares that have, or will be, visiting Claudius Augustus this season is pretty impressive. Included in this group is Jack Coffey’s Firey Star, a daughter of B Js Superstar who is a 100 per cent producer of stakes winners. Rick and Maryann Plano have sent Simply Royal by Donerail, she being the dam of Thatssomebracciola and Franky Provolone. Walt and Patty Peterson are breeding their popular California champion Kimmie Girl.
Tim and Denise Maier in partnership with Desomer Stables are visiting the court of Claudius Augustus with Smooth Jazz, the champion pacing-bred trotter by Tulane, and Cherry Tree Salome, a Donerail offspring.
'Team Desomer' is also sending Charlottes Web, a California Sire Stakes divisional leader by Website, and Ahh Saundra. Katie Scott has Geadingurl, Frey Star and Champolina, while trainer Johnson is breeding Skeeter Repellant.
(With files from Cal-Expo)