Arabian Lion Leads Justify Exacta at Santa Anita

It was an impressive maiden breaking performance for Arabian Lion (2c Justify x Unbound, by Distorted Humor) on Sunday to earn a 92 Beyer and Thoroughbred Daily News “Rising Star” honors for his efforts.

Debuting over six furlongs on the dirt in the Santa Anita Maiden Special Weight race, the Bob Baffert trainee went straight to the lead where he was followed closely by fellow Justify son Elwood Blues. That pair ran first and second around the track and never changed positions with Arabian Lion winning by three lengths over Elwood Blues, who had 2 ¼ lengths on the third-place horse. The rest of the field was over 14 lengths behind the winner.

Bred by Bonne Chance Farm, Arabian Lion is owned by Zeden Racing Stable, who purchased him from Hidden Brook’s consignment for $600,000 at this year’s OBS April Sale.

Arabian Lion is out of the stakes-placed Unbound, who now has four winners from five runners. The mare is a full sister to stakes-placed Mary Rita, who produced Grade II winner Major Dude. This colt’s third dam is the great Personal Ensign, who was not only a champion racemare but also a top broodmare.

Among those under Personal Ensign’s name are Grade I winner and producer My Flag, champion juvenile Storm Flag Flying, Grade I winners Miner’s Mark, Traditionally, Mr. Speaker, and Seeking The Soul.

Justify is the sire of 18 winners – the second best of any North American first crop sire and his three graded stakes winners and one Grade I performer lead all North American and European freshmen.