British Isles, a grandson of the notable sire Pure Prize, claimed the historic Santa Anita Handicap

In a race that perhaps lacked the star power of its glory days, British Isles drew away to win by 4 1/2 lengths over Vodka Vodka, providing his connections with a truly special moment

British Isles inscribed his name on the prestigious list of Santa Anita Handicap winners / BENOIT PHOTO

ARCADIA, California (Special for Turf Diario).— History, memories, and emotion blended into an unforgettable day at Santa Anita Park, where British Isles delivered a commanding performance to claim the traditional Santa Anita Handicap (G1-2000m, $300,000 purse) and write a very special chapter for his connections.

The victory held immense sentimental value for owner Nick Cosato and trainer Richard Baltas, both of whom were practically raised within the confines of the Arcadia oval. For jockey Diego Herrera, meanwhile, it marked the first Grade 1 victory of his career.

The tears in the winner's circle reflected the weight of history. Cosato recalled parking cars at the track as a child and even posing in a photo holding the legendary John Henry after his triumph in this race back in 1981.

“It’s surreal. I grew up with this race and all its history,” the owner confessed.

Sent off at 7-1 following the scratches of Skippylongstocking (Exaggerator) and Westwood (Authentic), the son of Justify settled into third for much of the journey behind Midnight Mammoth (Midnight Lute) and Getaway Car (Curlin), while the heavy favorite Just a Touch (Justify) bided his time.

With fractions of 22.86, 46.63, and 1:11.31 for the first six furlongs, the race began to take shape on the far turn. There, Herrera launched his mount on the outside, and the 5-year-old responded with authority.

Once in front, British Isles dominated clearly, extending his lead stride by stride to cross the wire 4 1/2 lengths ahead of Vodka Vodka (Stay Thirsty), while Getaway Car completed the podium. The final time was 2:05.17.

For Herrera, the moment was simply indescribable. “I have no words. It’s a blessing. Everything went perfectly today,” said the jockey, who began his career riding Quarter Horses and at one point balanced afternoon meetings at Santa Anita with night sessions at Los Alamitos.

The win also capped a notable evolution for the horse. After competing in 16 races on the turf, his connections decided to return to the dirt in the Native Diver Stakes (G3) at Del Mar, where he finished second to Nevada Beach (Omaha Beach) before traveling to Florida for the Pegasus World Cup (G1). That process of adjustments reached its peak in the Big ’Cap.

Bred in Kentucky by Orpendale/Chelston/Wynatt, British Isles is a grandson of Pure Prize (Storm Cat)—a standout on the track and later a remarkably successful sire in Argentina. The victory also represents another major win for Justify, the 2018 Triple Crown champion, who in 2026 stands at Ashford Stud with a fee set at $200,000.

For Cosato, Baltas, and Herrera, however, the value of the win goes far beyond the numbers. Because winning the Santa Anita Handicap isn't just another victory: it’s becoming part of one of North American racing's deepest traditions. And now, British Isles has his name etched in that history.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GjtbXKq6xhw