The Malibu only good leg left of the Strub Series
This certainly looks like a great Malibu this year. The Malibu is probably the only race in the Strub Series that still maintains it stature. The Strub Series consist of three races restricted to 4YOs and used to feature the cream of the 3YO crop of the prior year. Of course the Malibu's cast will consist of 3YOs since it is now run as the opening day feature at SA. The series then continues with the San Fernando Stakes at 1 1/16 in mid January then the Strub Stakes at 1 1/8 on the first Saturday in February.
This used to be a very special series every winter at SA. The San Fernando and the Strub have lost much of their lustre since SA was sold to Frank Stronach. MEC's creation of the Sunshine Millions has really changed the SoCal racing calendar. This year it takes place on Jan 24, right between the second and third legs of the Strub Series. That is probably the biggest issue I have with the Stronach's MEC. Seems like every year the San Fernando and Strub lose key players as owners and trainers focus CA and FL breds on a more lucrative target on the racing schedule. The fields of this very unique series are no longer as deep or talented as before the creation of the Millions.
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