Just a week after finishing last in the Frank E. Kilroe Mile (G1) at Santa Anita, Air Force Red demonstrated remarkable resilience by securing a one-length victory in the Grade 3, $100,000 San Simeon Stakes. The seven-year-old horse, guided by jockey Armando Ayuso, showcased an explosive finish on the hillside turf course, proving his adaptability and competitive spirit. Trained by Leonard Powell, Air Force Red completed the 6½ furlongs race in 1:12.99, splitting horses with a powerful move in the final furlong. This win marked Air Force Red's third stakes victory and solidified his reputation as a favorite among racing enthusiasts.

Strategic Racing Approach Yields Success

Air Force Red's strategic positioning during the race played a crucial role in his triumph. Initially positioned near the back of the pack, he allowed front-runners Lovesick Blues and Mucho Del Oro to set the pace. As the field approached the dirt crossing, it became evident that Air Force Red was brimming with energy. Jockey Armando Ayuso, recognizing the horse's potential, made a decisive move, navigating through the field and overtaking Lovesick Blues inside the final furlong. This tactical approach ensured that Air Force Red conserved energy while waiting for the opportune moment to surge ahead.

The decision not to engage in a speed duel from the start proved wise. Trainer Leonard Powell had instructed Ayuso to avoid getting stuck inside or engaging in a battle for the lead. This strategy allowed Air Force Red to relax and stay fresh until the critical moment. When Ayuso spotted an opening, he capitalized on it, making a powerful split between horses. The result was a breathtaking finish that left spectators in awe. Powell praised Ayuso's execution, noting that the jockey's ability to let the horse relax was key to their success. "He was loaded all the way," Ayuso remarked, emphasizing the horse's readiness to deliver a strong performance.

A Legacy of Resilience and Achievement

Air Force Red's recent victory adds another chapter to his impressive racing career. With this win, he has now accumulated seven wins, three stakes victories, and earnings totaling $711,574. The seven-year-old gelding by Air Force Blue has become a beloved figure in the stables of Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners and Holly Golightly. His adaptability and determination have been on full display, especially considering his seventh-place finish in the Frank E. Kilroe Mile just a week prior. This comeback underscores Air Force Red's resilience and his trainers' confidence in his abilities.

Powell expressed admiration for Air Force Red's character, describing him as a horse everyone loves. In 2022, Air Force Red won both the Joe Hernandez (G2) and the Lure Stakes, further cementing his status as a top competitor. His latest victory in the San Simeon Stakes demonstrates that he remains a formidable force in the racing world. The horse paid $11.80, $4.80, and $3.20, while Lovesick Blues returned $19.00 and $6.40, and Sorrento Sky paid $3.00 to show. Air Force Red's consistent performances and strategic racing tactics continue to captivate fans and earn him accolades in the thoroughbred racing community.