On a picturesque Sunday at Santa Anita, a formidable lineup of fillies and mares will vie for supremacy in the Grade 3, $100,000 La Cañada Stakes. This prestigious race, covering 1 1/16 miles, promises to be a spectacle of speed, strategy, and sheer athleticism.

Prepare for an Unforgettable Afternoon of Thoroughbred Excellence

Return of the Champion: Musical Mischief's Journey Back to Southern California

Musical Mischief, a seasoned 5-year-old mare by Into Mischief, has embarked on a remarkable journey that has taken her from the heart of Kentucky to the sun-soaked tracks of Southern California. Her recent victory in the Locust Grove (G2) at Churchill Downs showcased her prowess over 1 1/16 miles. However, her sixth-place finish in the Falls City (G3) on a muddy track serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of racing. Trained by Michael McCarthy, Musical Mischief boasts impressive credentials with 13 starts, four wins, two seconds, one third, and earnings totaling $518,776. Jockey Umberto Rispoli, who guided her in last year’s La Cañada, returns to the saddle, bringing continuity and experience to her campaign.The return to Santa Anita holds special significance for Musical Mischief. Last year, she finished fourth in the La Cañada before relocating to the Midwest. Now, she aims to reclaim her glory on familiar turf, driven by the ambition to add another prestigious win to her record. The stakes are high, and the competition fierce, but Musical Mischief's resilience and pedigree make her a formidable contender in this elite field.

Fresh and Ready: Alpha Bella's Comeback Under John Sadler's Guidance

Alpha Bella, a 5-year-old mare sired by Justify, returns to action after a well-deserved break under the watchful eye of trainer John Sadler. Owned by Don Alberto Stable, this talented filly concluded 2024 with consecutive runner-up finishes in the Zenyatta (G2) and Bayakoa (G3). These performances underscored her potential and hinted at even greater achievements ahead.Eclipse Award-finalist Flavien Prat, known for his tactical brilliance, will ride Alpha Bella in the La Cañada Stakes. With a career record of 18 starts, three wins, six seconds, and two thirds, coupled with earnings of $455,615, Alpha Bella is no stranger to the limelight. Her freshening has rejuvenated her, and she enters the race with renewed vigor and determination. The La Cañada Stakes offers her a prime opportunity to solidify her status among the top fillies and mares in the country.

Chatalas: A Proven Winner with High Expectations

Chatalas, a 4-year-old Gun Runner filly trained by Mark Glatt, brings a wealth of experience and accolades to the La Cañada Stakes. Her early triumph in the Chandelier (G2) at Santa Anita as a 2-year-old marked her as a rising star. Last year, she added a win in the Indiana Oaks (G3), further cementing her reputation. Despite a less-than-ideal eighth-place finish in the American Oaks (G1) on turf, Chatalas remains a force to be reckoned with.Owned by Dan J. Agnew, Rancho Temescal Thoroughbred Partners, and William Chatalas, this versatile filly has earned $393,670 across 10 starts, with three wins, one second, and two thirds. Reuniting with jockey Antonio Fresu, who rode her to victory in the Chandelier and American Oaks, adds an element of consistency and trust. Chatalas' adaptability and competitive spirit position her as a strong candidate to challenge for the top spot in this competitive field.

Cavalieri: An Ascending Star with Bob Baffert's Imprint

Cavalieri, a promising 4-year-old Nyquist filly trained by the legendary Bob Baffert, has quickly made a name for herself. Her debut win in front-running fashion at Del Mar in August was followed by a dominant performance in an allowance race at Santa Anita on October 12. The runner-up in that race, Jubilant Joanie, went on to win her next start, highlighting Cavalieri's quality.With regular rider Juan Hernandez set to guide her once again, Cavalieri enters the La Cañada Stakes with momentum and confidence. Her ability to perform consistently over a mile bodes well for her chances in this stakes event. Owned by Speedway Stable, Cavalieri has the backing of a renowned trainer and a proven jockey, setting the stage for a potentially historic performance. As she steps up in class, all eyes will be on this ascending star to see if she can continue her upward trajectory and claim a significant victory.

The Wild Card: Che Evasora and Big Hug Add Intrigue to the Field

Che Evasora, a 4-year-old Greenspring filly trained by Philip D’Amato, and Big Hug, a 4-year-old Mr Big filly under Val Brinkerhoff, bring additional layers of intrigue to the La Cañada Stakes. Che Evasora's recent sixth-place finish in the Breeders’ Cup Distaff (G1) showcases her ability to compete at the highest levels. Meanwhile, Big Hug's second-place finish in the Glendale Overnight Stakes indicates her readiness for a strong showing.Che Evasora will be ridden by Tiago J. Pereira, while Big Hug will have Mike E. Smith in the irons. Both fillies possess unique strengths and strategies that could surprise the favorites. The inclusion of these wild cards adds excitement and unpredictability to an already thrilling race, ensuring that every moment counts in the pursuit of victory.