American Stakes

What is the American Stakes?

The American Stakes is a Grade III Thoroughbred race held annually at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, California. Run at 1 mile on the turf for horses aged four and older, it is one of the oldest and most storied turf races on the Southern California calendar. Originally inaugurated on Independence Day 1938 as the American Handicap at Hollywood Park, the race attracted crowds of up to 60,000 and counted Triple Crown champion Citation, Hall of Famer Ack Ack, and the great John Henry among its winners. Since Hollywood Park closed in 2013 the race has been held at Santa Anita, where it remains a showcase for elite turf milers each spring.

When is the American Stakes in 2026?

The 2026 American Stakes is scheduled for Saturday, April 18 at Santa Anita Park. Contested at 1 mile on the turf with a purse of $100,000, the race draws a competitive field of older turf specialists from across North America and regularly attracts international runners seeking their first California graded stakes score.

American Stakes History & Notable Winners

The American Stakes has an illustrious history stretching nearly nine decades. Among its champions are Citation (1951), Ack Ack (1971), John Henry (1983), and Candy Ride (2003). In the modern Santa Anita era, the race has been contested at 1 mile on turf and has produced some competitive renewals. Johannes set the current course record of 1:32.08 in winning the 2024 edition under Umberto Rispoli for trainer Tim Yakteen. Veteran Mike Smith guided Cabo Spirit to victory in 2025, capping a career-defining season for trainer George Papaprodromou.

Last Updated on 04/15/2026

The American Stakes is a cornerstone of the Santa Anita spring meet and one of the most prestigious turf mile races on the West Coast calendar each April.