Justify's British Isles Wins Santa Anita's 'Big Cap'

Gelding gives young jockey Diego Herrera his first Grade I victory

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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British Isles, a 5-year-old gelding by Justify, won the Grade I Santa Anita Handicap at Santa Anita Park, defeating Vodka Vodka and 'TDN Rising Star' Getaway Car. The victory marked the first Grade I win for jockey Diego Herrera.

Why it matters

The Santa Anita Handicap, also known as the 'Big Cap', is one of the most prestigious races on the West Coast racing calendar. British Isles' victory is a significant achievement for the horse, trainer Richard Baltas, and the young jockey Diego Herrera, who is establishing himself at the top level of the sport.

The details

British Isles, who has spent most of his 24-race career in allowance company, took advantage of a scratched-down field of five horses to win the 'Big Cap'. He was parked outside the favorite, Just a Touch, for much of the race before taking command in the stretch and pulling away to win by open lengths, covering the 1 1/4 miles in 2:05.17.

  • British Isles placed in the GIII Native Diver Stakes in November at Del Mar.
  • British Isles shipped across the country to finish fifth in the GI Pegasus World Cup Invitation in January.

The players

British Isles

A 5-year-old gelding by Justify who won the Grade I Santa Anita Handicap.

Diego Herrera

A young jockey who earned his first Grade I victory aboard British Isles.

Richard Baltas

The trainer of British Isles.

Vodka Vodka

The horse that finished second to British Isles in the Santa Anita Handicap.

Getaway Car

A 'TDN Rising Star' horse that finished third in the Santa Anita Handicap.

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The takeaway

This victory for British Isles and young jockey Diego Herrera demonstrates that even horses and riders who may not be household names can rise to the top level of the sport and achieve success in prestigious races like the Santa Anita Handicap.