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SAUL ARIAS Birthdate: November 9, 1978 Birthplace: Bogota, Columbia Height: 5’3” Weight: 100 pounds Single Residence: Lawndale

Santa Anita Stakes Wins
Buena Vista H. (GII)—Conveyor’s Angel (2007)

Highlights

• First winner: October 2, 2005 at Turf Paradise, on Jills Classy for trainer Doug O’Neill. Win payoff was $20.60.
• First graded stakes winner: February 19, 2007, aboard Conveyor’s Angel in Santa Anita’s Grade II Buena Vista Handicap at odds of 22-1.
• Endeared himself to longshot players during 2005-06 Santa Anita meet when his return on investment from 18 victories in 179 rides generated a remarkable profit of $426.80 on $2 win wagers. His total return came to $786.60.
• Victory aboard 90-1 Hudson Bank returned $183.20 – highest win payoff of the 2005-06 meeting – on Feb. 20 after having ridden Dee’s Legend to an $81.60 payoff in the previous race, the third.
• Rode eight winners at Turf Paradise before returning to Southern California where he had ridden sparingly without a victory in 2005.
• Won his first race in Southern California on New Year’s Day, 2006, at Santa Anita aboard Jackieosofabulouse ($33.40). One day later, scored with J.P.’s Gayle at $44.60.

Personal

• Came to the United States from Columbia in 2002 with intent to continue collegiate studies in business administration.
• While interested in racing, was introduced to the sport locally by former rider Kelly Castaneda in 2003. At the recommendation of trainer Jose Corrales, went to Ocala, Florida, to be tutored by Hall of Fame jockey Jacinto Vasquez.