Kentucky Derby Prep Races: Kopion Winning Streak

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Kentucky Derby Prep Races Odds and News

Kopion Dominates Santa Monica Stakes, Extends Winning Streak

The early months of the racing season are often centered on Kentucky Derby Prep Races, but older horses are making the headlines at Santa Anita Park. On Feb. 1, Kopion delivered a commanding victory in the Grade 2 Santa Monica Stakes, proving she belongs among the top female sprinters in the country. 

As Kentucky Derby betting heats up, races like the Santa Monica provide insight into the talent emerging in other divisions. While Kentucky Derby odds continue to shift, Kopion’s growing resume makes her one of the most exciting older fillies in training.

A Performance Reminiscent of Her Sire

Trained by Hall of Famer Richard Mandella, Kopion has long reminded her trainer of her sire, Omaha Beach. That resemblance was displayed as she confidently took control of the Santa Monica, staying within striking range before drawing off for an impressive 4 ½-length victory. 

With Antonio Fresu aboard for the first time, Kopion sat outside early leader Hope Road, part of Bob Baffert’s trio of entrants. The moderate pace of 22.67 seconds for the opening quarter kept the field close together, but when Kopion made her move entering the stretch, she quickly separated herself from the competition.

Crossing the wire in 1:21.27, she left no doubt about her dominance, securing her second straight graded stakes win. Hope Road held on for second, finishing 1 ¼ lengths ahead of Richi, with Splendora another 1 ½ lengths back in fourth.

A Rising Star in the Filly and Mare Division

Owned by Spendthrift Farm, Kopion has quickly developed into one of the most promising fillies in training. After winning the Grade 1 La Brea Stakes on Dec. 26, she followed up with another dominant effort in the Santa Monica. 

Although this was technically her first start against older competition, only five-year-old Richi was older, with Hope Road and Splendora also facing her in the La Brea.

Kopion’s career began with a promising juvenile win, followed by early success as a three-year-old, including a victory in the Santa Ynez Stakes (G3). She later finished second in the Las Virgenes Stakes (G3) and fourth in the Santa Anita Oaks (G2), her only attempt beyond a mile. Recognizing her potential, Mandella opted to give her time off after that race to allow her to mature.

Future Plans and Potential Targets

Mandella is known for his patience in developing top-level talent, and his approach with Kopion is no different. While the next step in her campaign is still under discussion, the Grade 1 Beholder Mile on March 8 is an enticing option. Mandella has yet to finalize plans, but her ability to handle sprints and route distances makes her a versatile contender.

A Strong Pedigree and Future Impact

Kopion’s success adds further prestige to her pedigree. Purchased for $270,000 at the 2022 Keeneland September Yearling Sale, she was bred by Tall Oaks Farm in Kentucky. She is out of the Victory Gallop mare Galloping Ami, who has produced multiple stakes winners, including Grade 3 winners Amis Gizmo and Ami’s Flatter.

Her sire, Omaha Beach, was a standout racehorse under Mandella’s training, winning multiple Grade 1 races, including the Malibu Stakes and Arkansas Derby. Now standing at Spendthrift Farm for a $35,000 stud fee, Omaha Beach has already produced multiple stakes winners, including Grade 1 victor And One More Time. Kopion’s success further cements his reputation as an emerging sire.