Improbable's stellar performance in the $300,000 Los Alamitos Futurity (G1) gave Bob Baffert his record 11th winner in the race, including the last five, all run at Los Alamitos. The historic race was previously run as the Hollywood Futurity at Hollywood Park.
At the break of the 1 1/16-mile race, it was Baffert's Mucho Gusto who sped to the front, with Improbable falling back to fourth from his rail post position. He avoided trouble going into the first turn when Savagery blew the turn, making his way into third on the outside. Under a snug hold by Drayden Van Dyke, Improbable joined his stablemate on the lead at the top of the stretch. The duo raced together briefly before Improbable asserted himself to draw away to a five length win. Mucho Gusto was a clear second. The final time was 1:41.18 on the fast track.
“At the top of the stretch (Improbable) looked a little lost,” admitted Baffert. “(Jockey Drayden Van Dyke) had to hit him a couple of times. Once he straightened out, he got into that long, beautiful stride of his. The good horses always find a way to win. He had trained like he was going to run like this. I was really excited about (Mucho Gusto). He tried very hard and just got a little tired. His race was very encouraging. We'll just let these horses come along at their own pace and hope they stay healthy. That's the key. Improbable has a long stride like Justify. He's just a smaller version. I'm not saying he's at Justify's level yet, but he's a really good horse.''
The victory earned Improbable his first 10 points on the Road to the Kentucky Derby.
Owned by WinStar Farm, China Horse Club and Starlight Racing, Improbable is undefeated in three starts, including a win in the Street Sense S. at Churchill Downs. He has earned $269,520.