Mystik Dan brings ‘buzz’ to Santa Anita opener

ARCADIA — Santa Anita begins its 90th-anniversary season of thoroughbred racing Thursday with Kentucky Derby winner Mystik Dan trying to add to his résumé by winning the Malibu Stakes.

Yes, the competition on opening day in Arcadia is so strong that a victory in the main event would enhance the reputation of even the winner of America’s greatest race.

“It’s an ideal race for him,” said Ken McPeek, Mystik Dan’s trainer.

The $300,000 Malibu, a 7-furlong sprint, is the year’s final Grade I race restricted to 3-year-olds...