To view the Oak Tree Derby, click here.

by Pete Denk

The Usual Q. T. stepped out of California-bred company and held off Battle of Hastings (GB) by a head to win the Oak Tree Derby (G2) at Santa Anita Park on Saturday.

The Oak Tree Derby was the fourth consecutive victory for The Usual Q. T. The three-year-old gelding by Unusual Heat progressed from a maiden win, to an optional claiming victory, to  a win in the John C. Mabee California Cup Mile Handicap on October 3 at Santa Anita. All three of those wins were in California-bred company.

In the Oak Tree Derby, The Usual Q. T. stalked the leaders from fourth under jockey Victor Espinoza, found a seam turning for home, and took the lead in midstretch.

Battle of Hastings, winner of the Virginia Derby (G2) and Colonial Turf Cup Stakes (G2) earlier this year, rallied outside of the winner but came up just short at the finish line.

No Inflation finished another 1 3/4 lengths back in third.

The Usual Q. T. completed 1 1/8 miles in 1:44.48 on firm turf.

The Usual Q.T. was bred in California by Carlee Van Kempen. He is out of the winning Western Fame mare Lunge. He improved his record to four wins and four seconds from nine starts with earnings of $276,670.

For an Equibase chart, click here.

Pete Denk is sales editor for Thoroughbred Times