In a thrilling return to Santa Anita Park, the Grade 2, $200,000 Joe Hernandez Stakes is set to captivate racing enthusiasts this Saturday. With a field of nine contenders, including the narrowly defeated Motorious from the Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint, the stakes are high on the unique hillside turf course.

Prepare for an Unforgettable Day of Racing at Santa Anita

Motorious: The Comeback King

Just a nose away from victory in last month’s Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint, Motorious has once again taken center stage. Under jockey Antonio Fresu, this seasoned 6-year-old gelding by Muhaarar has demonstrated remarkable resilience. In his previous outing, Motorious triumphed in the Green Flash (G3) at Del Mar on August 31, showcasing his prowess over five furlongs. Trained by Phil D’Amato and owned by Anthony Fanticola, Motorious boasts an impressive record of 4 wins, 1 second, and 1 third place finish on Santa Anita’s distinctive hillside turf. Over his career, he has accumulated 7 wins, 5 seconds, 2 thirds, and earnings totaling $687,604. Once more, Fresu will be in the irons as Motorious aims for redemption.The hillside turf course presents unique challenges, but Motorious thrives in this environment. His ability to adapt and excel on this surface underscores his versatility and determination. Fans will be watching closely to see if Motorious can leverage his experience and form to secure a decisive victory this time around.

D’Amato’s Strategic Trio: Unconquerable Keen and Sorrento Sky

Phil D’Amato’s strategic approach is evident with the inclusion of Unconquerable Keen and Sorrento Sky in the race lineup. Unconquerable Keen, a 5-year-old gelding by Clodovil, comes off a strong performance in the Stormy Liberal Stakes at Del Mar, where he finished just half a length behind Sorrento Sky. Despite being winless in two starts over the hillside turf, Unconquerable Keen secured the Stormy Liberal title in 2023, proving his potential on this challenging course. Campaigned by CYBT, Omar Aldabbagh, and Michael Nentwig, Unconquerable Keen has earned $333,089 with 7 wins, 2 seconds, and 4 thirds in 20 races. Jockey Umberto Rispoli, who rode him to victory in the Stormy Liberal, retains the mount.Sorrento Sky, a 3-year-old son of Prince of Lir, brings an international pedigree to the table. Bred in Ireland, Sorrento Sky made his mark in the Stormy Liberal, finishing as the slight favorite despite previously beating older horses in allowance turf sprints. His lone start on the hillside turf resulted in a fourth-place finish in the Desert Code Stakes in May. Domestically campaigned by Benowitz Family Trust, CYBT, McLean Racing Stables et al., Sorrento Sky aims to capitalize on his recent form and youth to challenge the veterans.

Air Force Red: The Defending Champion Returns

Leonard Powell’s Air Force Red returns to defend his 2022 Joe Hernandez title. This 6-year-old ridgling by Air Force Blue most recently placed second in the Eddie D (G2) sprint on the hillside turf in September. Owned by Eclipse Thoroughbreds and Holly Golightly, Air Force Red has amassed 6 wins, 3 seconds, and 1 third in 21 starts, earning $638,574. Juan Hernandez, who guided Air Force Red to second place in the Eddie D, will once again take the reins. Air Force Red’s familiarity with the course and consistent performances make him a formidable contender.Air Force Red’s journey to this point has been marked by steady improvement and adaptability. His second-place finish in the Eddie D highlights his competitive spirit and readiness for another high-stakes battle. As the defending champion, Air Force Red carries the weight of expectation but also the confidence of past success.

Other Notable Entrants

Beyond the leading trio, several other contenders add depth to the field. Code Duello, trained by Craig Dollase and ridden by Armando Ayuso, makes his presence felt after winning the Winter Championship Stakes. Sumter, under Richard E. Mandella and Mike E. Smith, looks to rebound from a less-than-stellar performance in the Seabiscuit Handicap. Irideo, Central Dispatch, Gaslight Dancer, and others bring their own stories and strategies to the competition.Each horse brings its own narrative, contributing to the rich tapestry of this prestigious event. From seasoned campaigners to rising stars, the Joe Hernandez Stakes promises a day of intense competition and unforgettable moments.