Get ready for an exciting showdown at the Robert B. Lewis Stakes! The stage is set for a thrilling battle as Intrepido, a rising star in the horse racing world, takes on the formidable Bob Baffert and his impressive winning streak. But here's the twist: Intrepido isn't just any horse; he's part of a dynamic ownership duo that's making waves in the industry.
The Battle for Supremacy
Bob Baffert, a legendary trainer, has dominated the Robert B. Lewis Stakes for seven consecutive years. However, this year, he faces a formidable challenge from Intrepido, owned by Dutch Girl Holdings and IrvingVentures. This ownership group is off to a flying start in 2026, and they're bringing their A-game to the Lewis Stakes.
Intrepido, trained by Jeff Mullins, is a proven winner. He took home the American Pharoah Stakes (G1) last year and showed his resilience by finishing fifth in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile (G1) despite a rough start. But here's where it gets controversial: Baffert's horses, Desert Gate and Plutarch, also earned Kentucky Derby points in the American Pharoah, setting up an intriguing battle for Derby eligibility points in the Lewis.
The Eye of the Tiger
Michele Arthur and Ruben Islas, the owners of Intrepido, have a secret weapon in their corner: Mike Pender, a talented bloodstock agent and former trainer. Pender has an incredible eye for talent, and he's the one who selected both Intrepido and Queen Maxima, another multiple graded stakes winner, for the owners. Islas praised Pender, saying, "He's a real talent. We really believe in him." Arthur added, "I say he has the eye of the tiger."
Under Mullins' guidance, Intrepido has been on a winning streak, picking up crucial Kentucky Derby points in the American Pharoah. The one-mile Lewis Stakes offers an even bigger prize: 20 points for the winner, with a scale of 20-10-6-4-2 for the top five finishers.
The Baffert Barrage
But Baffert isn't one to back down easily. With a record 13 victories in the Lewis Stakes, he's a force to be reckoned with. His most recent winners, Nysos and Citizen Bull, are champions in their own right. Nysos won the 2025 Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile (G1), while Citizen Bull was the champion 2-year-old male of 2024 and took home the Breeders' Cup Juvenile that year.
Baffert's third runner, Cherokee Nation, is still a maiden, but he's shown promise with two second-place finishes in maiden races. He narrowly lost to Mr. A. P., who went on to finish second to champion Ted Noffey in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile.
The Field Round-Up
The Lewis Stakes field is rounded out by three other contenders. Briggs Armypower, making his first start for trainer Daniel Jensen, has won three out of four races at Arapahoe Park, including the non-listed Gold Rush Futurity. Robusta, trained by Doug O'Neill, and Secured Freedom, trained by Tim Yakteen, are both coming off maiden victories after unplaced debuts.
As the sun sets on Santa Anita Park on February 7, 2026, the stage is set for an epic battle. Who will emerge victorious? Will Intrepido break Baffert's winning streak, or will the legendary trainer extend his dominance? The race is on, and the world is watching.
And this is the part most people miss: it's not just about the horses. It's about the people behind them, the strategies, and the stories that unfold. So, who do you think will win? Let's discuss in the comments and share our predictions!
