Megahertz last-to-first in Santa Barbara

INGLEWOOD, Calif. - The brilliant Megahertz rallied from last to win the $200,000 before an adoring crowd for a record third consecutive year at Santa Anita on Sunday.

The win prompted trainer Bobby Frankel's to describe the performance as "unbelieveable."

Ridden by Alex Solis, Megahertz closed from 20 lengths off the pace to win by three-quarters of a length over Nadeszhda. Megahertz ($3.20) finished 1 1/4 miles on turf in 1:59.76.

Frankel listened to a call of the race in Kentucky. "She's just a great mare," he said.

Midwife, a 17-1 outsider, led by as many as 10 lengths through a quick pace of 23.38 and 46.38 seconds. It was not until the end of the backstretch that Megahertz began drawing closer to the leaders. She began passing fillies and mares on the final turn when Nadeszhda took the lead.

When the field settled into the stretch, Nadeszhda led by 1 1/2 lengths but Megahertz was closing with every stride on the outside. She took the lead in the final 75 yards.

"I have never ridden a horse that has that kind of kick," Solis said. "It's incredible. You really have to understand her, leave her alone and let her do her thing."

When she returned to be unsaddled, Solis brought Megahertz before the grandstand, presenting her to a gracious public who responded with warm applause.

The race marked Megahertz's 12th win in 30 starts, improving her earnings to $1,661,594 for owner Michael Bello.