Horse Racing Preview: San Gabriel Stakes (Grade II)

The San Gabriel Stakes (Grade II) at Santa Anita is set to take place on December 26, 2024. With a purse of $200,000, this race covers a distance of one and one-eighth miles on turf and is open to three-year-olds and upward. This prestigious race has attracted a competitive field.

Contenders:

1. Astronomer (KY) – Jockey: K. Kimura, Trainer: S. Callaghan, Odds: 12/1
   • Equipment Change: Blinkers off
2. Easter (FR) – Jockey: A. Fresu, Trainer: P. D’Amato, Odds: 6/1
3. Cabo Spirit (KY) – Jockey: L. Dettori, Trainer: G. Papaprodromou, Odds: 30/1
4. Johannes (KY) – Jockey: U. Rispoli, Trainer: T. Yakteen, Odds: 4/5
5. Escape Artist (KY) – Jockey: J. Rosario, Trainer: S. R. Knapp, Odds: 20/1
6. Dicey Mo Chara (GB) – Jockey: J. R. Velazquez, Trainer: L. Powell, Odds: 15/1
7. Mi Hermano Ramon (KY) – Jockey: H. I. Berrios, Trainer: M. Glatt, Odds: 5/1
8. Nineeleventurbo (KY) – Jockey: J. J. Hernandez, Trainer: N. D. Drysdale, Odds: 10/1
9. Seal Team (GB) – Jockey: F. Prat, Trainer: R. E. Mandella, Odds: 8/1

Analysis:

• Astronomer: With blinkers off, Astronomer seeks to improve focus and performance. Trained by Simon Callaghan, he has shown promise but needs to step up against this competitive field.
• Easter: This French-bred gelding has been consistent and is a strong contender. Trained by Phil D’Amato, Easter has the skills to make a significant impact in this race.
• Johannes: The morning-line favorite with odds of 4/5, Johannes is trained by Tim Yakteen and ridden by Umberto Rispoli. He has been in excellent form and is expected to be a strong contender.
• Mi Hermano Ramon: Trained by Mark Glatt and ridden by Hector I. Berrios, Mi Hermano Ramon is another top contender with good form and consistent performances.
• Seal Team: With Flavien Prat in the saddle and trained by Richard E. Mandella, Seal Team has shown potential and could be a surprise contender in this race.

The San Gabriel Stakes promises to be a highly competitive and exciting race with a mix of experienced and up-and-coming horses. Will the favorite Johannes live up to expectations, or will an underdog steal the spotlight?