Santa Barbara Stakes – Grade III
1 1/2m Turf Graded Stake
Purse $100.000 For Fillies And Mares Three Years Old And Upward.

1 Miss Darna Lagastable Delgadillo

With the weight allowance only 3 pounds the three year olds have stayed away so this is a far more open race that it wouldve been. This five year old is having her first run for 5 months today so she is entitled to be a bit rusty but she has some decent form and must come into this race as a leading fancy. She was when second in the grade one Taylor. Whilst she is better in the wet she also managed to win the Marshua River on a dry track so she can handle it if things go her way.

2 Sandset Team 7 Illusions Desormeaux K J

A good second in the Orchid last time this daughter of Cherokee Sunset has only won twice from nineteen but she has run well in good company a few times and coming from the two box she would have a fair chance of getting some of this purse.

3 Sovereign Nation Paradise Stable Espinoza V

A real dour stayer this six year old won the Dowager last year but that was in among many defeats. She needs a real test of stamina which she gets today and was only inches behind Sandset in the Orchid last time suggesting she could be ready to out stay her rivals today.

4 Classic Tail Ashwood Farms Smith M E

A winner of six races at lower grade than most of these she knows where the post is but will have to improve to beat some of these.

5 Miz Snakie Queen Maxmillion Farm Van Dyke D

You cant ignore the magic man when it comes to a turf race and although this four year old was beaten a long way in the Orchid you have to respect the stable. I think the wide gate may just be too much for her and she has yet to prove she really stays this trip so at my peril i will say she wont win.

SUMMARY
An open little race i think it may be between Sovereign Nation and Miss Darna. Sovereign Nation loves this long route but Miss Darna may have too much speed and class if she is anywhere near her best fresh up.

Categories: Grade III, STAKES ARTICLES