Zazu Upsets Turbulent Descent

Aided by a fast pace, Zazu rallied to win Saturday's Grade 1 Las Virgenes at Santa Anita Park, beating heavy favorite Turbulent Descent in the process.

Zazu, trained by John Sadler for Ann and Jerry Moss, paid $10 as the second betting choice. Joel Rosario was aboard the winner.

May Day Rose and California Nectar were both intent on the lead and sent the field through fractions of :21.58 and :44.25. California Nectar was the first to crack and May Day Rose opened up a two length lead after six furlongs in 1:08.77.

The taxing early pace took a toll and the pack was beginning to close. Zazu and Turbulent Descent moved as a team with the former going slightly better. The eventual winner gradually edged away from her previously undefeated rival and crossed the line 1-1/4 lengths in front.

Turbulent Descent was making her first start since the Hollywood Starlet in December and the Las Virgenes was her first attempt on dirt. She was well clear of show finisher Plum Pretty.

Pace player May Day Rose weakened to 4th and was followed by California Nectar and Tiz The Route.

Zazu, a 3-year-old daughter of Tapit, completed her one mile journey in 1:34.86.

Do you think the top finishers in this race can make an impact in the Kentucky Oaks? Check out Horse Racing Nation's Top 250 3-year-old fillies and cast your vote.