Nysos showcased his remarkable talent in the Triple Bend Stakes (G3) at Santa Anita Park, securing an impressive victory that reaffirmed trainer Bob Baffert’s faith in the colt. Despite a small field of four competitors, including last year’s runner-up Dr. Venkman, Nysos dominated the race, taking the lead early and finishing 5 1/2 lengths ahead with a time of 1:21.28. Jockey Juan Hernandez, riding Nysos for the first time, praised the horse’s smooth start and comfortable pace throughout the race.
This victory marks a significant comeback for Nysos, who had faced a 15-month hiatus due to physical issues after an impressive start to his career. His previous performances included a win by 7 1/2 lengths in the Robert B. Lewis Stakes (G3) and a strong second-place finish in the Churchill Downs Stakes (G1). Baffert, who has trained Nysos since his early races, expressed confidence in the colt’s potential, aiming for the Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1) as a future target.
Owner Susan Chu, who traveled from Massachusetts to witness the race, emphasized her patience and trust in Baffert’s training decisions. Nysos, bred from the Bernardini mare Zetta Z, was purchased for $550,000 at the 2023 Ocala Breeders’ Sales and is one of several graded winners sired by Nyquist, who stands at Darley for a 2025 fee of $175,000. Baffert remains noncommittal about Nysos’s next race, considering options including the Pacific Classic at Del Mar.
