Santa Anita Park is kicking off its winter-spring meet in grand style with a thrilling lineup of stakes races on opening day. Fans can look forward to five graded stakes races, including the prestigious La Brea Stakes (G1), alongside other big events like the American Oaks (G1) and the San Gabriel Stakes (G2). Let’s dive into the details of these exciting races and the standout horses competing for glory.
La Brea Stakes (G1): Rising Stars Compete
The Grade 1 La Brea Stakes is the highlight for 3-year-old fillies, offering a $300,000 purse. Among the contenders is Accuracy, trained by Michael McCarthy, who enters the race on a hot streak after two dominant wins. Her most recent victory was a 7 1/4-length romp at Del Mar, earning her one of the top Beyer Speed Figures for female horses this year.
Other big names include:
- Tamara, a Grade 1 winner making a comeback.
- One Magic Philly, a Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Sprint competitor.
- Sugar Fish, known for her wins in the Summertime Oaks and Zenyatta Stakes.
With a field of 11 talented fillies, this race is shaping up to be a must-watch event.
American Oaks (G1): Turf Stars Shine
The American Oaks brings top-notch 3-year-old fillies to Santa Anita for a 1 1/4-mile turf showdown. Headlining the event is She Feels Pretty, fresh off a six-length win in the Queen Elizabeth II Challenge Cup (G1). Another strong competitor is Kathynmarissa, who recently claimed her first stakes win at Kentucky Downs.
Local hopes rest on Watchtower and Medoro, who finished first and second in the Autumn Miss (G3). With a full field of 13 horses, this race promises excitement from start to finish.
San Gabriel Stakes (G2): Johannes Takes Center Stage
The San Gabriel Stakes features Johannes, a 6-for-6 standout at Santa Anita who just missed winning the Breeders’ Cup Mile (G1). He’ll face tough competition from previous San Gabriel winners Easter and Dicey Mo Chara. Other notable contenders include Mi Hermano Ramón, who recently triumphed in the Seabiscuit Handicap (G2).
Other Races to Watch
The day wouldn’t be complete without the Malibu Stakes (G1), headlined by Kentucky Derby winner Mystik Dan, and the Laffit Pincay Jr. Stakes (G3). Both races will showcase high-caliber talent, adding even more excitement to opening day.
Santa Anita’s opening day promises thrilling races, featuring top horses, celebrated trainers, and talented jockeys. From the speedsters in the La Brea to the endurance-tested fillies in the American Oaks and the seasoned turf specialists in the San Gabriel, there’s something for every racing fan. Don’t miss the action starting Thursday at 2 p.m. EST, with the final race set for 7 p.m. EST. Grab your seat and enjoy the ride!
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