Derby Tops Big Day at Santa Anita

Hear the Ghost, who upset the San Felipe S. (G2) last time, will be among the ones to beat in the deep and talented, $750,000 Santa Anita Derby (G1) on Saturday at The Great Race Place. Trained by Jerry Hollendorfer, the son of Ghostzapper has been impressive in his last pair of outings and seems to be a horse who continues to be on the improve as the distances increase. The colt will likely be doing his best work from off the pace once again in this spot.

Flashback, super impressive in winning his first two by open lengths, won the battle but lost the war in the San Felipe, but the lightly raced colt could easily turn it around in this spot. The Bob Baffert-trained son of Tapit has excellent speed and closing kick, and has been highly touted from this barn prior to his maiden race. Grade 1 winner Power Broker, San Felipe third Tiz A Minister and two-time Grade 3 star Goldencents, are the top threats to the potential favorite in this field.

Champion Beholder and Grade 2 heroine Fiftyshadesofhay, who ran one-two in the local prep for this affair, are likely to face off once again in the $300,000 Santa Anita Oaks (G1). They are appear to be heads and shoulders clear of most likely heading for this contest.

Also on tap for this big Saturday of racing is the $150,000 Potrero Grande S. (G2) and $150,000 Providencia S. (G3).