Del Mar will stage one of its most important summer fixtures on Saturday as Seismic Beauty returns to defend her title in the G1 Clement L. Hirsch, a race that brings together a quality group of older fillies and mares seeking a major victory on the Southern California circuit.
The defending champion enters the mile and one-sixteenth contest aiming to regain the form that carried her to success in last year’s renewal. The daughter of Uncle Mo captured the 2025 Clement L. Hirsch after arriving with strong momentum, following an impressive performance in the G2 Santa Margarita Stakes at Santa Anita.
G1 Clement L. Hirsch Stakes preview is the focus keyword for this article.
Trained by Bob Baffert, Seismic Beauty has been one of the leading names among the older female dirt horses in the region. After her Clement L. Hirsch victory last year, she was aimed at the Breeders’ Cup Distaff but endured a disappointing run at Del Mar after a troubled start. She returned this season in the G2 Santa Margarita Stakes, finishing third while making her first appearance of the year.
The five-year-old mare now gets another opportunity to return to winning form in a race where she has already proven her ability. Her preparation heading into the event has suggested she is ready for a stronger performance, with Del Mar once again providing the stage for her championship ambitions.
Among her main rivals is Om N Joy, winner of this year’s Santa Margarita Stakes. The California-bred mare has developed into a consistent performer against some of the best fillies and mares in the country and brings valuable recent form into the Clement L. Hirsch.
The field also includes several talented challengers from leading stables. Eunomia arrives from Florida after facing tough competition in New York, while Chasten enters after a dominant victory in the Obeah Stakes at Delaware Park. Majestic Oops adds further depth after competing in major graded events, including last year’s Breeders’ Cup Distaff.
Simply Joking could also prove a serious contender after finishing runner-up in the Santa Margarita Stakes. The four-year-old mare previously impressed with a strong victory in the G3 Santa Maria Stakes and returns to a distance that suits her racing style.
The 56th running of the G1 Clement L. Hirsch will be Race 10 on Del Mar’s Saturday programme, forming the centrepiece of a day that also celebrates the Oak Tree Racing Association. The organisation’s long association with California racing will be recognised during the meeting.
The Clement L. Hirsch has historically attracted elite female dirt horses and has played an important role in identifying contenders for major autumn championship events. This year’s renewal continues that tradition with a competitive field featuring proven winners and emerging stars.
Earlier on the card, the California Dreamin’ Stakes will bring together a strong group of California-bred runners over one mile and one-sixteenth on the Jimmy Durante turf course.
The race features experienced campaigners including None Above the Law, an eight-year-old veteran with a long history of success at Del Mar, along with Old Pal and On the Whim, both proven performers with notable victories on their records.
The younger generation will also be represented by horses such as Prince Dolce and Mr. Disrespectful, adding further intrigue to a race that combines seasoned competitors with improving runners.
Del Mar’s Saturday card will feature two important stakes events, with the Clement L. Hirsch and California Dreamin’ Stakes providing a showcase of established talent and rising contenders. The meeting continues to attract attention as horses prepare for the major races later in the season.
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