“Max” displays his greatness in Pacific Classic (G1)

Maximum Security was at his best once again in Saturday’s $500,000 Pacific Classic (G1) at Del Mar, leading nearly the entire trip to take the 1 1/4-mile affair by three lengths under Abel Cedillo.

Maximum Security has now won his last six starts, dating back to the 2019 Haskell Inv. (G1) and has earned $12,1919,900 for owners Gary and Mary West (also his breeder), Mrs. John Magnier, Michael Tabor and Derrick Smith. 

Maximum Security took the lead just a few strides out of the gate, with Sharp Samurai glued to his outside as he led the field through a half-mile in :47.98. With no one else threatening the top pair, Maximum Security began to pull clear in upper stretch and was going along rather easily as he finished the distance in 2:01.24 on the fast main track.

“We mapped it out that he’s the quickest horse, he’s ready and now you can ride him with a lot more confidence. Once he took the lead I figured he’d be fine,” said trainer Bob Baffert. “Max’ was relaxing really nice. He was a totally different horse today. He just does things effortlessly. He wasn’t even blowing when he came back. Today he showed that he is a great horse.” 

As part of the Breeders’ Cup Win and You’re In series, the Pacific Classic victory guaranteed Maximum Security a spot in the Nov. 7 Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1) at Keeneland, as well as paying his entry fee for the race. 

Baffert now has six wins in the Pacific Classic, dating back to 1999 with General Challenge. He is tied with the late Bobby Frankel for the most wins in the race.