Dave Litfin handicaps the July 31 stakes action from Saratoga, Monmouth, and Del Mar.

Shedaresthedevil tackles several Southern California graded stakes-winning distaffers in the $300,000 Clement L. Hirsch Stakes (G1) at Del Mar Aug. 1, a “Win & You’re In” race for the Breeders’ Cup Distaff (G1).

Preakness Stakes (G1) winner and the Eclipse Award winner Bernardini has been euthanized at Jonabell Farm due to complications from laminitis, Darley America announced July 30.

July is set to wind down in style with a bevy of competitive stakes races. J. Keeler Johnson handicaps three of those from coast-to-coast.

Shedaresthedevil tackles several Southern California graded stakes-winning distaffers in the $300,000 Clement L. Hirsch Stakes (G1) at Del Mar Aug. 1, a “Win & You’re In” race for the Breeders’ Cup Distaff (G1).

Jockeys at some 25 racetracks across America July 31 will wear armbands and participate in other activities to raise funds for the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund and raise awareness of National Disability Independence Day.

Two months after dueling in the Woody Stephens Stakes (G1) at Belmont Park June 5, 3-year-olds Drain the Clock and Jackie’s Warrior square off again in the $200,000 Amsterdam Stakes (G2) at Saratoga Race Course Aug. 1.

The Joe Orseno-trained Hope in Him will face eight other juveniles in the $100,000 July 31 Dr. Fager Stakes, a six-furlong sprint that will co-headline Saturday’s program with the $100,000 Desert Vixen, a six-furlong dash for 2-year-old fillies.

Owner/breeder Mary Anne Noel Hockensmith died July 26 at her Woodlake Farm home near Frankfort, Ky. She was 97.

Channel Cat and trainer Jack Sisterson are no strangers to springing upsets in graded stakes. Now they’ll aim for a mild surprise, with Channel Cat a 5-1 shot for the $250,000 Bowling Green Stakes (G2T) at Saratoga Race Course July 31.