INGLEWOOD, Calif. (Dec. 9, 2007) - Lava Man DVDs are on sale at Hollywood Park for $10, with all proceeds going to the family of groom Noe Garcia, who had his left arm severed in a car accident in August.
The DVDs cover the Cinderella Story of three-time Hollywood Park winner Lava Man. The story includes interviews with trainer Doug O'Neil, jockey Corey Nakatani and with owners Jason Wood and Steve and Dave Kenly.
Lava Man, who matched legendary Native Diver with his third straight Gold Cup victory in 2007, has been turned out, but he is expected to race in 2008. Following his retirement, Hollywood Park will re-name The Californian in his honor.
The California-bred won his first Gold Cup in 2005 by a record 8 3/4 lengths. He then prevailed by a nose in a pair of photo finishes, beating Ace Blue in 2006 and A.P. Xcellent in 2007. Native Diver, the first California-bred to earn $1 million, won the Gold Cup three straight years beginning in 1965.
Lava Man, the richest horse to be claimed, ran for a tag of $12,500 while
making his first career start at Stockton on June 19, 2003. Claimed for
$50,000 from his 13th start on Aug. 13, 2004, at Del Mar, the California-bred
son of Slew City Slew has compiled earnings of $5,214,706 (all but $98,603 since the claim).
The Lava Man DVDs are available at the Hollywood Park Gift Shop or by writing Dorothy Hawthorne, c/o marketing, Hollywood Park, 1050 S. Prairie Avenue, Inglewood, CA 90301.
