Phil D'Amato showcased his talent

Trainer Phil D'Amato showcased his talent by saddling the first two finishers in the San Clemente Handicap (G2T) at Del Mar on July 20, with Iscreamuscream leading the way.

Iscreamuscream, owned by Little Red Feather Racing in partnership with John Hundley Jr., Marsha Naify, and John and Stacey Snyder, remained undefeated by winning the one-mile race. Trainer Phil D'Amato had another horse, Zona Verde, finish in second place.

Despite being her stakes debut, Iscreamuscream went off as the 6-5 favourite. Under jockey Hector Berrios, she took the early lead and maintained it throughout, showing impressive professionalism. Omaha Girl challenged her briefly, and Medoro, the 2-1 second choice, and Zona Verde both made attempts to catch up. However, Iscreamuscream held them off, finishing three-quarters of a length ahead of Zona Verde, with Medoro another half-length back in third. The final time was 1:35.87.

D'Amato praised Iscreamuscream, highlighting her scope and training, which indicated she could handle the two turns. He admitted some nerves seeing her pressed on the lead but commended Berrios' ride, comparing him to Hall of Fame jockey Eddie Delahoussaye.

Berrios' ability to keep the filly relaxed and finish strong was a key component of the victory, showcasing his skill and calm demeanour in high-pressure situations.

Iscreamuscream was purchased for $145,000 from GOP Racing Stable at the 2023 Ocala Breeders' March 2-Year-Old in Training Sale. She had previously been sold for $55,000 at the 2022 Keeneland September Yearling Sale and was a $9,000 RNA as a weanling at the 2021 Keeneland November Breeding Stock Sale.

Bred in Kentucky by Hunter Rankin and Walker Hancock, Iscreamuscream is out of the Cozzene mare Silver Screamer, a winner of the 2012 Eatontown Handicap (G3T) and Lady Baltimore Stakes.

Iscreamuscream is by Twirling Candy, who has produced several graded stakes winners, including 2021 Preakness Stakes (G1) winner Rombauer. Twirling Candy stood for a 2024 stud fee of $60,000 at Lane's End near Versailles, Ky.

Iscreamuscream's victory in the San Clemente Handicap highlights her potential and maintains her perfect record. With strong ownership, breeding, and training, she is poised for a promising future in graded-stakes races. The win adds another notable achievement for Little Red Feather Racing and continues to elevate Phil D'Amato's reputation as a top trainer.