In a thrilling race at Del Mar, the underdog Sandy Bottom emerged victorious, upsetting the heavily favored Tamara in a nail-biting finish. The race, which featured a strong pace and tight quarters, showcased the talent and determination of both horses and their respective jockeys.

A Stunning Upset at the Racetrack

A Comeback Cut Short

Tamara, the 2-5 favorite, was making her first start since November 2023, and was widely expected to claim the victory. Owned by her breeder Spendthrift Farm and trained by Hall of Famer Richard Mandella, Tamara is the daughter of the legendary Beholder, a multiple Breeders' Cup champion and Eclipse Award winner. Jockey Mike Smith navigated Tamara through some tight quarters, putting the talented filly in position to pull off the win, but it was not to be.

Sandy Bottom's Surprise Triumph

The real story of the day, however, was Sandy Bottom. Trained by Michael McCarthy for owners James and Donna Daniell, Sandy Bottom was making a comeback of her own, having last raced in October 2023. Jockey Umberto Rispoli expertly guided the filly, setting a strong pace and holding on for a narrow nose victory over the favored Tamara. This win marked Sandy Bottom's third consecutive lifetime victory, including a previous triumph in the Anoakia Stakes at Santa Anita.

A Tight Finish and a Hefty Payout

At the end of the six-furlong race, the final time was 1:10.06, with Sandy Bottom prevailing by a mere nose over Tamara. Running third, 3 1/4 lengths farther back, was Hronis Racing's Anywho. Sandy Bottom's victory earned her a first-place prize of $36,600, pushing her career earnings to an impressive $140,622. The upset win also paid handsomely for her backers, as Sandy Bottom returned $10.20 for every $2 wager.

The Significance of the Upset

This unexpected triumph by Sandy Bottom over the highly regarded Tamara is sure to have ripple effects throughout the racing community. It serves as a reminder that in the unpredictable world of horse racing, any horse can rise to the occasion and pull off a stunning upset, no matter the odds or the pedigree of their opponent. This victory will undoubtedly boost the confidence of Sandy Bottom's connections and may even lead to bigger and more prestigious opportunities for the talented filly in the future.