URGENT UPDATE: The highly anticipated opening day at Santa Anita kicks off today, January 7, 2024, at 11 a.m., featuring six graded stakes races and a crowd expected to reach 35,000 to 40,000 fans. Among the spotlight racers is Nysos, the morning-line favorite, starting at 3-5 odds in the $200,000, Grade II Laffit Pincay Jr. Stakes.
Nysos, ridden by leading North American jockey Flavien Prat and trained by Hall of Famer Bob Baffert, aims to build on his recent victory at the Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile and push his 2025 earnings over $1 million. With an eye on the upcoming $20 million Saudi Cup in February, Nysos is a horse to watch today.
“Nysos is ready to dominate,” Baffert stated earlier this week, hinting at a potential start in either the Saudi Cup or the Pegasus World Cup Invitational, set for January 24.
In addition to Nysos, the $300,000, Grade I Malibu Stakes will showcase a competitive field of 10 three-year-olds, including five trained by Baffert. The Baffert contenders lead the morning line, with horses like Barnes at 3-1 and Goal Oriented at 5-1 looking to secure their first Grade I win.
Trainer Richard Baltas believes his horse, Modus Bestia, a longshot at 15-1, has “the most potential” among the challengers. Baltas also expressed surprise at the 5-2 morning-line odds for Atsila, his filly making her U.S. debut in the $300,000, Grade I American Oaks.
With rain affecting the track conditions this week, Santa Anita postponed the opener from its traditional Christmas Day slot. The track has received 5.75 inches of rain, prompting officials to monitor the main track and turf course closely as they prepare for a thrilling day of racing.
The $300,000 La Brea Stakes will also feature rising stars, with Formula Rossa at 3-1 and Five G at 7-2 set to compete. Meanwhile, the $200,000, Grade II Mathis Mile presents an opportunity for the 3-2 favorite Namaron, a German-bred gelding seeking his first U.S. victory.
Track executives have confirmed no significant changes to horse safety measures, emphasizing their ongoing commitment to maintaining safety standards. General manager Nate Newby stated, “Safety is going to continue to be our top priority.”
As the Santa Anita Classic Meet unfolds through April 5, the stakes are high for these remarkable horses. With multiple races lined up, fans will be eager to see which contenders can rise to the occasion and claim victory.
Stay tuned for live updates and results as Santa Anita’s racing season kicks off with excitement and anticipation!
