Mystik Dan, the renowned horse that once claimed victory in the Kentucky Derby, is all set to make his comeback in the Malibu Stakes on the opening day at Santa Anita on December 26. This highly anticipated event will see him start from post six in an eight-horse field. The entries for the card were set on Thursday, and among the six graded stakes races, the $300,000, Grade I Malibu stands out.

The Significance of the Malibu Stakes

The Malibu Stakes holds a special place as the last American Grade I stakes for 3-year-olds in 2024. It offers horses a great opportunity to enhance their achievements for the season. Moreover, it is a 7-furlong elongated sprint, providing a perfect springboard for those coming off layoffs into longer races in 2025. Mystik Dan, trained by Kenny McPeek and ridden by jockey Brian Hernandez Jr. after his Kentucky Derby win, has since finished second to Seize the Grey in the Preakness and eighth to Dornoch in the Belmont Stakes. This will be his first start in California, adding an extra layer of excitement to the event.

The Opposition

The opposition in the Malibu Stakes is formidable. Stronghold, ridden by Antonio Fresu, is also looking to make a comeback after going 0 for 3 since his Santa Anita Derby victory in April. Bentornato, with Luis Saez in the saddle, finished second to Straight No Chaser at 28-1 in the Breeders’ Cup Sprint at Del Mar. Raging Torrent, guided by Frankie Dettori, is the winner of the 7-furlong Pat O’Brien Stakes at Del Mar. Additionally, the Bob Baffert-trained trio of Imagination, with Joel Rosario aboard, Pilot Commander, ridden by Juan Hernandez, and Winterfell, with John Velazquez, will add to the competitive spirit.

Mystik Dan's Journey So Far

Mystik Dan's path to this moment has been remarkable. After his triumphant win in the Kentucky Derby, he faced tough competition in the Preakness and Belmont Stakes. His second-place finish in the Preakness and eighth-place finish in the Belmont Stakes showcased his mettle. Now, as he prepares to race in California for the first time, fans and experts alike are eager to see how he will perform in this new environment. The Malibu Stakes presents a fresh challenge for him, and his performance will be closely watched by the racing community.

Racing at Santa Anita

Santa Anita's racing schedule during the holidays is unique. The first post on December 26 is earlier than usual, starting at 11 a.m. Racing will run from Thursday through Sunday in the first week, followed by Wednesday, January 1, and then from Friday through Sunday, January 3-5. The track continues its operations through April 6, with a week off before resuming from April 18 to June 15. This provides ample time for horses and jockeys to prepare and showcase their skills.