UPDATE: In a dramatic turn of events, Bob Baffert triumphed in the Malibu Stakes at Santa Anita on December 26, 2023, securing his record-breaking seventh victory in this prestigious race. Just two days before, Baffert faced major setbacks as he had to scratch his top two contenders, including the favorite, Cornucopian, mere moments before the race began.
This thrilling race, watched by a crowd of 41,962 fans, saw Baffert’s new favorite, Goal Oriented, rally from last place to clinch victory by one length against the remaining field of seven. The win marks a significant moment for Baffert, who has now surpassed the previous Malibu Stakes record held by fellow Hall of Famer Richard Mandella.
Just minutes before the race, Cornucopian was scratched after an unexpected incident in the paddock where he reared and fell. Baffert described the situation as “upsetting,” emphasizing the importance of safety protocols in horse racing. “Once they touch the ground, that’s it, you’re out,” he stated, reflecting on the unpredictable nature of the sport.
Despite the disappointments, Baffert’s experienced training team executed a stellar performance with Goal Oriented, who crossed the finish line in a remarkable time of 1:20.99 for seven furlongs, making it the fastest Malibu since 2016. This victory comes after a four-race losing streak for the colt, showcasing a remarkable turnaround.
Goal Oriented, owned by SF Racing, Starlight Racing, and Madaket Stables, emerged victorious in a race that saw Baffert’s other entries unable to finish in the top three due to the impressive performance of Phil D’Amato-trained Speedy Wilson, who prevented a complete Baffert sweep.
As Baffert celebrated in the winner’s circle, he noted, “There’s strength in numbers, you know?” This victory adds to his growing legacy in the sport, with Malibu winners including notable names such as The Factor and McKinzie.
The stakes were high on this opening day at Santa Anita, following a two-day delay due to adverse weather conditions. The race was not only a test of speed but also a demonstration of resilience for Baffert, who faced a challenging day leading up to the event.
Fans and racing enthusiasts alike will be eager to see what’s next for Goal Oriented and Baffert’s stable as they continue to dominate the racing scene. With this latest victory, Baffert solidifies his status as one of the all-time greats in horse racing history.
Stay tuned for more updates as the racing season unfolds, and follow the latest developments in the world of thoroughbred racing.
