ARCADIA, California (AP) U.S. Horse of the Year Wise Dan defended his title in the $2 million Mile, winning by three-quarters of a length.
With jockey Jose Lezcano a late replacement for injured John Velazquez, Wise Dan paid $3.60, $2.80 and $2.20 as the 4-5 favorite on Saturday at Santa Anita.
A year ago, Wise Dan won by 1 lengths with Velazquez aboard.
Za Approval returned $8.40 and $5.80.
Silentio was another three-quarters of a length back in third and paid $9 to show.