Seven-year-old chestnut mare Desert of Malibu (Malibu Moon – Lady Digger) reaffirmed her status as one of the country’s premier thoroughbreds in training, digging deep to notch her 13th career victory in the $1.5-million Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame Stakes Trophy feature on Saturday, July 18, 2026.

Desert of Malibu proved that despite her age and ongoing health management, her class remains undeniable as she won the Open Allowance contest over 6 furlongs (1,200m) by half-length in a time of 1:10.2.

The sprint for three-year-olds and upward unfolded at a blistering pace from the break. California Crown, guided by jockey Tevin Foster, tore out of the gates to set an aggressive front-running tempo, posting sharp fractions of 22.3 for the opening quarter and 46.0 for the half-mile.