Smokey Image runs away with Cal Cup Derby at Santa Anita (The Associated Press)
Ridden by Victor Espinoza, Smokey Image ran 1 1/16 miles in 1:43.39 and paid $2.80, $2.40 and $2.10. Espinoza was aboard Smokey Image for the first time, while Carla Gaines took over as trainer of the Cal-bred colt after his most recent win at Del Mar on Oct. 30. ”He reminds me of California Chrome,” said Espinoza, who rode that colt to victories in the 2014 Kentucky Derby and Preakness.