The 2023 Santa Anita Derby was a thrilling race that saw Practical Move emerge as the victor, earning a coveted ticket to the Kentucky Derby. The race also featured impressive performances from Mandarin Hero, who placed second, and Skinner, who came in third.
Practical Move, ridden by jockey Joel Rosario and trained by John Sadler, took the lead early in the race and held on for a comfortable win. The three-year-old colt had previously finished second in the San Felipe Stakes, but stepped up his game in the Santa Anita Derby to secure his place in the Kentucky Derby, one of the most prestigious horse races in the world. Mandarin Hero, ridden by Flavien Prat and trained by Richard Baltas, put in a strong performance to finish second, just a length behind Practical Move. The colt had previously won the Pasadena Stakes and finished fourth in the San Felipe Stakes, and his impressive showing in the Santa Anita Derby bodes well for his future in the sport.
Skinner, ridden by Juan Hernandez and trained by Michael McCarthy, also put in a solid effort to finish third, just a nose behind Mandarin Hero. The colt had previously won the California Cup Derby and finished second in the Sham Stakes, and his performance in the Santa Anita Derby suggests he could be a contender in future races. Overall, the 2023 Santa Anita Derby was an exciting and well-fought race, with Practical Move emerging as a deserving winner. With his ticket to the Kentucky Derby secured, all eyes will be on the colt to see if he can continue his winning streak on the biggest stage in horse racing.
But the race was also notable for the impressive performances of Mandarin Hero and Skinner, who showed that they have what it takes to compete at the highest level. With the Kentucky Derby just around the corner, horse racing fans will be eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this thrilling sport.
