Ferdinand Wins Santa Catalina Stakes

Bill Shoemaker held Ferdinand off the early pace while saving ground and rallied going into the stretch to win the $65,750 Santa Catalina Stakes Wednesday at Santa Anita.

Ferdinand beat Variety Road, ridden by Chris McCarron, by a half-length in the 1 1/16-mile test for 3-year-olds. Favored Grand Allegiance, ridden by Ruben Hernandez, finished third.

“I was looking for a hole, and Eddie Delahoussaye (aboard Tommy The Hawk) moved out just enough for me to have a shot,” Shoemaker said. “Once I got between horses, I felt he had enough to win,” Shoemaker said.

Ferdinand was timed in 1:43 and returned $6.40, $3.20 and $2.60. Variety Road paid $3.20 and $2.40.