Kopion’s La Brea Win Adds to Legacy of Dalos Bloodlines

When Kopion  returned from a near nine-month layoff Dec. 26 to pull off a 37-1 upset in the seven-furlong La Brea Stakes (G1) Dec. 26 at Santa Anita Park, she not only earned her first grade 1 victory but also cemented herself as a leading member on the long honor roll of horses bred by Tall Oaks Farm.

“It was a very nice surprise,” said Tall Oaks’ founder Ivan Dalos.

Dalos had followed the 3-year-old filly’s breezes as she prepped for her comeback and thought she was ready to fire while returning to sprint races after journeying on the Kentucky Oaks (G1) trail in the spring.

“I think she’s got a legitimate shot of being a grade 1 horse at the right distance,” Dalos said. “I’m only the breeder, not the trainer. I only know the lineage and I think this is the distance she wants to go. I think if they keep her at this distance, she’ll be very successful.”