The Santa Anita Handicap, a prestigious horse race historically significant in the world of horse racing, is set to take place on March 7, 2026, at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, California. Jockey Florent Geroux aims to seize the day amidst a field reduced in number and quality following the scratches of two leading horses. Despite the challenges, Geroux is optimistic about his chances as he rides favorites Just a Touch in the Grade I Santa Anita Handicap and Brant in the Grade II San Felipe Stakes.
Geroux, a seasoned jockey with over 2,300 career wins in North America, expressed enthusiasm about his mounts. He noted, “I have some very nice mounts tomorrow,” which include 6-1 Bless the Broken in the Grade I B. Wayne Hughes Beholder Mile and 8-1 Astronomer in the Grade II Frank E. Kilroe Mile on turf. His experience and recent move to California reflect his ambition to secure a strong contender for the 2026 Kentucky Derby.
Hopes Riding High on Brant and Just a Touch
In the San Felipe Stakes, Geroux will ride Brant, a horse purchased for $3 million at a 2-year-old auction by owner Amr Zedan. As the morning line favorite at even money, Brant is making his 3-year-old debut after a strong performance in the Del Mar Futurity and a third-place finish in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile. The race will cover a distance of 1 1/16 miles, and the winner will earn 50 Kentucky Derby qualifying points, significantly enhancing their chances of making it to the prestigious event on May 2.
Although Geroux has not raced Brant, he has trained with the horse under the guidance of renowned trainer Bob Baffert. Geroux commented on Brant’s potential, stating, “He’s a very nice horse, a lot of class,” while acknowledging the challenge of coming off a layoff. His confidence is bolstered by Brant’s previous performances, but he understands the need for readiness as the race approaches.
Strategic Insights into the Santa Anita Handicap
Turning to the Santa Anita Handicap itself, Geroux rides Just a Touch, who is currently favored at 3-2 following the scratches of competitors. Geroux remarked on the opportunity this presents, highlighting that the five-horse field appears less competitive than usual. “It’s not the toughest Grade I in the world. I’m hoping he can get it done. It would be a huge one to win,” he stated.
The Santa Anita Handicap and the San Felipe Stakes form a crucial part of the racing calendar, with the former beginning at noon, slightly earlier than usual. As Geroux eyes victory with both mounts, the excitement surrounding the races reflects the vibrant spirit of horse racing in California.
With both races carrying significant implications for the upcoming Kentucky Derby, the performances of Geroux and his mounts will be closely watched by fans and experts alike. As the day unfolds, Geroux’s hopes for a successful afternoon hinge on his ability to navigate the challenges presented by the competition, making it a pivotal moment in his racing career.
