With idyllic weather conditions and an exhaustive list of world-class races highlighted by six graded stakes, Santa Anita . Park set an all-time record for Classic Meet opening day handles of $26,315,016, up 35% from last year’s opening day. The 41,446 spectators on the track, the largest gathering of the oval Arcadia since its opening day, December 26, 2016, contributed to the festive atmosphere that accompanies a real day. unforgettable.
With three tier 1 stakes included out of the six ranked, there have been some great performances, with no top stake Taiba His 4 1/4 long win in Runhappy Malibu Stakes (G1), making him the only North American sophomore to win three tier 1 stakes in 2022 and thus cementing his ability him in the race for the title of the top 3-year-old male Eclipse Award.
“What a wonderful day,” said Santa Anita Senior Vice President and General Manager Nate Newby. “Today, Santa Anita Park proves once again why we really are a great Equestrian Place. We want to thank the fans and riders around the country and those who have been with us. we are here on the track because they have continued to support our program.
“We’d also like to thank riders, horse owners from around the world, the Hall of Fame equestrian colony and our racing division for putting together one of the best cards running anywhere Where to go this year. Combine it with the picturesque weather, it’s just a great start to our Classic Encounter.”
Taiba, coached by Bob Baffert, brought the Nogales native, Ariz. 1st place bet win of the day, third place win and just one of five overall wins for Santa Anita’s all-time top Hall of Fame tiebreaker.
Bob Baffert
Europe’s superstar equestrian Frankie Dettori, who has committed to riding full-time at Santa Anita for the first time in 35 years, has also announced that he will retire after the Breeders’ Cup World Championships on March 1. This coming November 3 and 4, there’s been a triple ride, including a win on North America’s top active earner, national grammar in San Antonio Stakes (G2).
Speaking of jockeys, Juan Hernandez, Santa Anita’s classic encounter defense frontman, ended his opening day with a win aboard the ship trained by Phil D’Amato Moon Rhea in American Oaks (G1), his second score of the day and fourth win in the final opening day.
The race continues at Santa Anita on Friday, with the first submission set at 12 noon to Monday, January 2.
This press release has been edited by BloodHorse Staff for content and style.
