September Graduate Nitti Strikes in Santa Anita Grade 3

The four-year-old NITTI powered home in the Grade 3 San Juan Capistrano Stakes and provided trainer Leonard Powell and rider Armando Ayuso with a memorable first win in the race.

He is a son of the Ballylinch Stud stallion Make Believe and was returning to the racecourse for the first time since March 2024. He was also taking a marked step up in trip and grade, as the furthest distance that he had ever competed over was 1m1f.

He was ridden with restraint for the majority of the contest, and still had five lengths to make up as they made the turn for home. Once they straightened he lengthened impressively for his rider and had two-and-a-half lengths to spare at the line.

NITTI started his racing career in Ireland with trainer Noel Meade, who purchased him in partnership with Peter Nolan Bloodstock from Bishopstown Stud in Part II of the 2022 September Yearling Sale.

He had three starts on turf in two-year-old maidens in Ireland, where his best effort was third in a seven furlong Down Royal maiden.

This Grade 3 win for NITTI was a big step forward on his previous efforts, and it will be interesting to follow the career path of this September Yearling Sale graduate.