This year marks the 87th running of the San Felipe Stakes (G2), Santa Anita’s traditional prep for the winter meet’s signature sophomore event, the Santa Anita Derby (G1), which is set to be held in four weeks. Named for a popular Mexican town located on the Gulf of California, the San Felipe Stakes constantly and consistently has drawn some of the best 3-year-olds whose connections have high Kentucky Derby hopes racing in the Golden State.
Champion Trainer and Jockey: Bob Baffert and Chris McCarron’s Triumphs
Medina Spirit and Bob Baffert- Photo Courtesy Of Churchill Downs
Hall of Famer Bob Baffert has saddled the winner eight times to lead all trainers (1999, Prime Timber; Point Given, 2001; Preachinatthebar, 2004; 2009, Pioneerof the Nile; 2015, Dortmund; 2017, Mastery; 2020, Authentic; and 2021, Life is Good) and retired jockey Chris McCarron, also a member of horse racing’s most elite club, booted home seven winners of the race (1982, Advance Man; 1983, Desert Wine; 1986, Variety Road; 1988, Mi Preferido; 1991, Sea Cadet; 1993, Corby; and 1998, Artax.)
From San Felipe to Churchill Downs: 13 Derby Champions’ Journey
Overall the San Felipe has produced 13 Kentucky Derby winners, including six who have won both, the most recent being Authentic. Also, 13 San Felipe winners went on to win the Santa Anita Derby and three of those also won the Run for the Roses, including Triple Crown winner Affirmed in 1978. Some of the bigger names listed in the San Felipe archives include California Chrome, Pioneerof the Nile, Medaglia d’Oro, Point Given, Fusaichi Pegasus, Bertrando, Sunday Silence, Hill Rise and Determine.
This year, the San Felipe is worth $400,000.
After the heavy rains from Friday and Saturday subside, the weather in Arcadia on Sunday is expected to be mostly sunny but cool with afternoon highs reaching into the upper 50s. The San Felipe is the day’s 6th race with an approximate post time of 3:00 p.m. PT.