Michael Lund Petersen’s ‘TDN Rising Star’ Kinza, trained by Bob Baffert and ridden by Juan Hernandez, dominated the GIII Santa Ysabel S. at Santa Anita Park, securing her third win in three starts and marking a consecutive victory in the race for Petersen with a front-running performance.
‣ Kinza, a ‘TDN Rising Star’ owned by Michael Lund Petersen, dominated the GIII Santa Ysabel S., marking her second consecutive victory in this race and maintaining her unbeaten record with a front-running performance.
‣ The race was a strategic win for Kinza, who was guided by jockey Juan Hernandez to manage her pace effectively despite an early challenge, showcasing her strength and potential as a leading racehorse.
‣ This victory represents the fourth consecutive Santa Ysabel win for trainer Bob Baffert and his ninth overall, highlighting his continued success and expertise in preparing top-tier racehorses.
Born in Schuylerville, coasting in Arcadia! Kinza, bred by JD Business Ventures, Brushy Hill, & Carpe Diem Syndicate & foaled at Schuylerville Thoroughbred Farm, is 3-for-3 and a 2-time GSW! @JJHernandezS19 on the #NYbred for Michael Lund Petersen, Baffert in the G3 Santa Ysabel. pic.twitter.com/OJsfqwCzcN
— NYTB (@nytbreeders) March 9, 2024
Saturday was a breeze for Kinza at the GIII Santa Ysabel S. Michael Lund Petersen’s shining ‘TDN Rising Star’ left her competitors in the dust, barely breaking a sweat. It was a spectacle, really.
Petersen must’ve been thrilled. After all, it was his second consecutive win in this race. Last year, his other star, Faiza, clinched the title.
Kinza, the 1-2 favorite, didn’t disappoint. Her performance in the GIII Las Virgenes S. was just a prelude. On Feb. 10, she dominated, winning by two lengths. And now, this.
The race started with a bit of a challenge. She’s a Tempest tried to keep up, pushing Kinza through a quick first quarter. But Kinza, with Juan Hernandez at the reins, maintained her composure.
By the half-mile mark, Kinza was cruising. She effortlessly widened the gap, leaving Hernandez to casually check the infield board. It was clear; they had this in the bag.
Bob Baffert, the trainer, must be doing something right. This win marked his fourth consecutive Santa Ysabel victory. Nine in total. That’s not luck; it’s skill.
Hernandez shared some insights post-race. Kinza was just eager to run, feeling a tad “hot.” He wanted a slower start, but Kinza had other plans. “I just let her go,” he admitted.
Kinza’s journey is quite the tale. From a $17,000 weanling to a $30,000 yearling, now she’s a ‘Rising Star.’ Her debut was nothing short of spectacular, winning by 7 1/2 lengths.
Her pedigree speaks volumes. Kinza is one of 13 worldwide stakes winners for Carpe Diem. And she’s not stopping anytime soon.
The race details are impressive. Held at Santa Anita Park, the Santa Ysabel S.-GIII had a purse of $101,500. Kinza, carrying 124 pounds, led the field.
Her victory wasn’t just a win for Petersen or Baffert. It was a moment of pride for New York breeding. Kinza, a NY-bred, showcased her talent on a grand stage.
The tweet from NYTB summed it up perfectly. Kinza’s journey from Schuylerville to Arcadia is a testament to her grit and grace. And with Hernandez in the saddle, she’s unstoppable.
Ah, the unpredictability of racing. One moment you’re a spectator, the next, you’re part of a story that’ll be told for years. Kinza’s story, especially, feels like it’s just beginning.
