Arcadia, CA
Favored Tara's Tango works out perfect trip to kick clear and take the Grade II Santa Maria Stakes Saturday at Santa Anita.
Jockey Martin Garcia kept the favorite in a strong hold and out of the quick opening fractions of :23 and :46 for the 1 1/16 mile distance, before sweeping three wide and pulling clear late to victory.
Tara's Tango closed from fifth in the final three furlongs and finished a half length clear of a game Yahilwa, who held on gamely after dueling through those quick splits. Living The Life rounded out the top three, finishing another 3/4 lengths back in third.
The 4-year-old filly returned $5.80 to win and ran the race in an average final time of 1:44.
Trainer Jerry Hollendorfer said he was pleased the way the race set up for his filly.
Tara's Tango has now earned over $300,000 and her next race might be in the Santa Margarita Invitational on March 19 at Santa Anita.