Everyone has seen a weather forecast before, and this weekend, wintry conditions will sweep across regions from Texas to Virginia and all the way to New York.
But not at Great Race Place.
Whether you’re in Arcadia, Hallandale Beach, or New Orleans, thanks for providing a winter racing haven. Here in Kentucky, our own Turfway Park had to cancel a few days ahead due to expected heavy snowfall and temperatures dropping below 20 degrees.
The La Cañada Stakes is a Grade 3 race happening over 1 1/16 miles on dirt at Santa Anita—where, of course, there’s no snow in sight. This rare two-turn dirt stakes event in California hasn’t been dominated recently by Bob Baffert, who guided last year’s winner, Cavalieri, to victory impressively.
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Grade 3 La Cañada Stakes
Distance: 1 1/16 miles, dirt
Eligible: Mares, 4 years old and up
Purse: $100,000
Ooty (8/1)
Jockey: Thiago Pereira | Trainer: Bob Baffert
Since arriving from Argentina in 2024, Ooty hasn’t quite lived up to expectations for Team Baffert. She’s raced three times without coming close to the top spots. Although she showed some potential in the Grade 3 Las Flores at six furlongs, it’s unclear what distance or conditions suit her best—and perhaps even her trainer is unsure.
Comment: Pass on this one.Fugitive Star (12/1)
Jockey: Hector Berrios | Trainer: Ian Kruljack
Fugitive Star has been a true globetrotter since beginning her career in 2024, competing across multiple states including Kentucky, Louisiana, and Arizona. She has three wins out of eight races but none at this level. While a lower-tier race might suit her, this appears to be a big jump.
Comment: Skip it.So There She Was (9/5)
Jockey: Emisael Jaramillo | Trainer: Doug O’Neill
This mare won the Remington Park Oaks last September and is the only stakes winner in the field. She also made an attempt at the Grade 2 Mother Goose east of here but came up short. Given her solid breeding—out of a Take Charge Indy mare—she’s definitely a strong contender and could generate some excitement heading into her four-year-old season.
Comment: Worth considering.Brilliantly (7/5)
Jockey: Juan Hernandez | Trainer: Bob Baffert
Brilliantly is the morning line favorite, but that’s largely due to her connections rather than her performance record. Her sole win came in a maiden race on turf, and although Baffert and Hernandez are confident, her overall record isn’t compelling. Betting against her might offer better value, but don’t be shocked if she pulls off a win.
Comment: Consider passing for better value plays.Breathe (5/1)
Jockey: Kazushi Kimura | Trainer: Bob Baffert
Breathe’s racing record is unusual for a Baffert trainee—she took 13 races to claim her first victory but has shown marked improvement since. Baffert is bouncing back strongly after a short break, and her recent form suggests she’s well-suited for this race.
Comment: Likely to contend for the win.Jane Austen (6/1)
Jockey: Abel Rezcano | Trainer: Mark Glatt
Jane Austen made a strong impression early in her career by winning her debut and following up with another solid performance. However, she hasn’t regained that form recently and hasn’t yet been tested at longer distances. Trainer Mark Glatt’s cautious approach is understandable given she’s a Tapit offspring, but there’s still much mystery surrounding her potential.
Comment: Best to pass.
Sports Tribune Betting Tip:
$3 Late Pick 3, starting Race 7 ($24 total): 5 / 3,5 / 4,6,7,8. Good luck!
Fan Take:
This La Cañada Stakes showdown offers a fascinating glimpse into emerging talents and seasoned contenders alike, making it a must-watch for horse racing enthusiasts. What happens here might signal the next big stars in the sport and shows how winter racing in warmer climates keeps the competitive spirit alive despite challenging weather elsewhere.
