TRIO OF GRADE 2 RACES AT SANTA ANITA THIS WEEKEND

A trio of Grade 2 titls will take place at Santa Anita this weekend, kicked off by Saturday's $200,000 Santa Maria S. (G2). Raven Run S. (G2) queen Great Hot was a sharp second in the La Canada S. (G2) most recently and looms a big chance in here for conditioner A C Avila. The talented daughter of Orientate has never missed the board on this oval and could peak third off the shelf.

Defending champ Vision in Gold didn't fire in her 2012 debut but should be way more fit in this spot for trainer Ron Ellis. The daughter of Medaglia d'Oro really came to hand last campaign on this oval and will be very tough with something close to her best. Grassy stakes heroine Wild Mia, Paseana S. first and third Ellafitz and Spirit Seeker, and Grade 2 victress City to City add to this fine cast.

Sunday's top draw is the $150,000 San Vicente S. (G2), and marks the return of Derby hopeful Creative Cause. The Mike Harrington trained son of Giant's Causeway romped in the Norfolk S. (G1) on this oval two prior and looms a huge shot in this one as he kicks off his 2012 campaign.

Smart maiden winner Smoking G, Breeders' Cup Juvenile Sprint winner Secret Circle, fine maiden winner American Act and Euro stakes-placed Captain Obvious and are also likely for this dash.

The $150,000 Buena Vista H. (G2) tops the action on the President's Day card.