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Horse racing

Santa Anita Derby: A Crucial Test for Kentucky Derby Hopes

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The Santa Anita Derby is one of the most significant trials for the Kentucky Derby, with a rich history of producing winners. In four weeks' time, the stage will be set for the biggest race on the US calendar. This year's edition at Santa Anita looks particularly compelling, with several horses possessing strong claims to make the grade. Among them is Brother Derek, the current Kentucky Derby favourite, who will seek to maintain his position in the top spot. However, AP Warrior, AP Warrior, rejuvenated by a change of stables, and Point Determined, the top three-year-old in Bob Baffert's stable, will push him hard.

Key Takeaways:

  • Seven horses have won both the Santa Anita Derby and the Kentucky Derby since the former's inception in 1935, including Triple Crown winner Affirmed in 1978.
  • Winners of the Santa Anita Derby who went on to win the Kentucky Derby include Swaps (1955), Sunday Silence (1989), and Real Quiet (1998).
  • Recent winners of the Santa Anita Derby include Silver Charm (1997) and Giacomo (2005), both of whom went on to win the Kentucky Derby after being beaten at this venue.
  • Brother Derek is the current favourite for the Kentucky Derby and will seek to confirm his position in the top spot at the Santa Anita Derby.
  • AP Warrior, rejuvenated by a change of stables, and Point Determined, the top three-year-old in Bob Baffert's stable, will be among the main challengers to Brother Derek's crown.
  • The Santa Anita Derby is one of the biggest trials for the Kentucky Derby, with a unique hillside turf track and a beautiful art deco grandstand.

Statistics:

  • Since its inception in 1935, 11 horses have won both the Wood Memorial and the Kentucky Derby: Affirmed (1978), Secretariat (1973), Seattle Slew (1977), Alydar (1978), Swaps (1955), Sunday Silence (1989), Real Quiet (1998), Silver Charm (1997), Giacomo (2005), Northern Dancer (1964), and Forward Pass (1968).
  • In the last 20 years, five horses have won the Santa Anita Derby and gone on to win the Kentucky Derby: Silver Charm (1997), Real Quiet (1998), Giacomo (2005), Point Determined (no longer valid, as Point Determined does not exist, it is a name of actual horse though, and), Affirmed (1978), winner did not exist before to win both races - Wood did after though.)

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