Splendora, making her first start since capturing the Breeders’ Cup Filly and Mare Sprint (G1) at Del Mar on November 1, delivered a strong performance for trainer Bob Baffert on Saturday. She secured a 1 3/4-length victory in the $200,000 D. Wayne Lucas Stakes (G2), a seven-furlong race at Santa Anita for mares.
Ridden by Juan Hernandez, Splendora started toward the back of the pack before advancing steadily on the backstretch. The early leaders were Myself and Molly McGee (10-1), who set the pace with fractions of 22.78 seconds and 45.63 seconds under Hector Berrios. Heading into the stretch, Splendora kept pace with Molly McGee, gradually closing the gap and ultimately earning her second significant stakes win and third overall.
“All credit goes to my mare, who did everything I asked of her,” said Hernandez. “She seemed a step behind initially but rebounded well, found her spot, and started running hard about three-eighths from the finish. She really put the race away on her own. I was thrilled to ride her.”
Splendora completed the seven furlongs in 1:22.09.
Trainer Bob Baffert praised the filly, saying, “She’s a phenomenal horse who gives me chills. She had a slow start but Juan rode her confidently.”
Molly McGee, trained by Peter Eurton, finished second by 2 1/4 lengths, ahead of Formula Rossa (5-2) who placed third. Lemon Muffin, once trained by the late D. Wayne Lucas, came in fourth at long odds of 38-1.
This event was formerly known as the Santa Monica Stakes, renamed this year in honor of the esteemed trainer D. Wayne Lucas, who passed away last summer at 89.
“When I saw the race renamed for D. Wayne Lucas, I was determined to win it,” Baffert shared. “I miss him and our conversations. I’m sure he’d be proud.”
Splendora, a 5-year-old daughter of Audible out of the Frost Giant mare Misfreeze, is owned by Tara Racing. She previously won the Breeders’ Cup Filly and Mare Sprint last year by 4 3/4 lengths.
“It’s a shame she didn’t win the Breeders’ Cup this time because she’s a truly talented athlete,” Baffert remarked.
Splendora has raced 11 times in her career, compiling a record of six wins and four seconds, with earnings surpassing $980,000.
She returned $2.80 to win.
This article was originally published by Paulick Report on February 8, 2026, and first appeared in the News section.
Fan Take: Splendora’s return to winning form in a tribute race honoring a legendary trainer symbolizes the continuation of excellence and legacy in horse racing. For fans, it’s a reminder of the sport’s deep history and the promise of thrilling future performances from standout horses like Splendora.
