Justify’s British Isles Wins Santa Anita’s ‘Big Cap’

[Wandering Eyes]

British Isles (g, 5, Justify–Purely Hot, by Pure Prize) has spent the majority of his 24-race career in allowance company, but took full advantage of the scratched-down field of five in Saturday's GI Santa Anita Handicap in Arcadia to emerge a winner at the elite level. Parked for much of the running on the outside of favored Just a Touch (Justify) through :22.86 and :46.63 fractions, he took command with authority and opened up in the stretch to win by open daylight. He got the 1 1/4 miles in 2:05.17 as Vodka Vodka (Stay Thirsty) and 'TDN Rising Star, presented by Hagyard' Getaway Car (Curlin) chased him home.

The 'Big Cap' marked the first Grade I win for young jockey Diego Herrera.

British Isles placed in the GIII Native Diver Stakes in November at Del Mar, then shipped across the country to finish fifth in the GI Pegasus World Cup Invitation in January. Lifetime Record: 24-4-6-4.

O-Slam Dunk Racing, Deborah Baltas and Cynthia McClanahan; B-Orpendale/Chelston/Wynatt (Ky.); T-Richard Baltas; J-Diego Herrera.

 

BRITISH ISLES ($16.40)came flying around the turn to score in the $300,000 Santa Anita Handicap (G1) at @SantaAnitaPark. @JockeyHerrera earns his first grade 1 victory riding the Justify (@coolmoreamerica) gelding for trainer Richard Baltas. pic.twitter.com/WFmjaguF41

— FanDuel Racing (@FanDuel_Racing) March 8, 2026

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