Maximum Security Wins Return In G2 San Diego Handicap

Showing his determination, Champion 3-Year-Old Maximum Security dug deep in the Grade II San Diego Handicap at Del Mar on Saturday to win his fifth consecutive stakes race.

Making his first start for Bob Baffert, the colt shot to the front in the 1 1/16 mile race before dropping back to third down the backstretch with Abel Cedillo aboard. The 4-year-old clicked back into gear half-way down the backstretch and took his spot dueling for second until Cedillo asked him to move around the turn.

Maximum Security caught up to the leading Midcourt as they entered the stretch and the race was on. Maximum Security was ready for the fight, sticking to Midcourt’s side and not willing to give an inch down the length of the stretch.

Maximum Security proved to be the stronger finisher when digging down and sticking his nose in front for his ninth career victory in 11 starts.

“That was crazy,” Baffert said. “I knew I didn’t have him really drummed up for this race, we were going to use this to get ready for the next one. But we’re learning about the horse. He won today when he had every reason to get beat. He showed what a great horse he is today. He’s such a fighter.”

Co-owned by breeders Gary and Mary West and the Coolmore partners, Maximum Security is one of three winners from four runners out of Lil Indy, a daughter of dual stakes winner Cresta Lil. Lil Indy is a half-sister to three-time Grade I winner Flat Out and Listed winner Our Best Man as one of 10 winners out of their dam.

Crest Lil herself is a half-sister to Listed winning Worrisome Thing with Maximum Security also sharing a family with Grade I winner Got Koko.

Named last year’s Champion 3-Year-Old Male, Maximum Security’s wins include the Grade I Florida Derby, Grade I Cigar Mile, and Grade I Haskell Invitational. Maximum Security is set to join the Coolmore America roster upon his retirement.