The 2025 Sunland Derby will forever remain one of the most thrilling conclusions of its kind and for trainer Bob Baffert’s outfit, also one of redemption and success. After a disappointing Sunland Oaks performance, Baffert’s assistant, Jimmy Barnes, admitted to feeling depressed lately. But that changed after Getaway Car ran an unbelievable race that brought home a stunning success and added to Baffert’s impressive CV.

Barnes, who has been around Baffert forever, had no qualms about allowing his emotions to spill out on how much this victory meant to him. “After the Oaks, I was feeling a little low, but you know, Getaway Car came through for us. He really showed up today,” Barnes said.

Strategic planning served him well here, with Getaway Car well-placed in a race that ideally suited him. The decision to have him contest the Sunland Derby was the right one.

“Yes, absolutely, it was a good spot for him,” stated Barnes.“Spacing our horses out, this looked like the perfect opportunity for Getaway Car to step up. It was a hard-fought race, but he showed his heart when it mattered most.”

The battle with Caldera was highly exciting, the two running stride for stride before Getaway Car edged out his rival by a hair on the wire. Barnes acknowledged the size of things: “It was a great stretch run. We love getting a stretch run with Wayne (Lukas). It’s always exciting. If we don’t win, we always want Wayne to win, but today was our day.”

Juan Hernandez delivers when it counts

Rider Juan Hernandez’s role in securing victory was critical. A pro at getting horses where they have to be, Hernandez rode the perfect ride, positioning Getaway Car where he had to be when it counted most.

“Juan did his job. He got him out of the gate and put him where he needed to be,” Barnes said. “That’s how he likes to run. Juan’s our regular stable rider in California, and he knows what to do when the pressure is on.” The victory also bolsters Getaway Car’s resume, making him a real player on the road to the Kentucky Derby. Baffert’s team is now busy keeping its horses separated while racking up the qualifying points that will get it to Churchill Downs.

“Right now, it’s keeping them apart, racking up points, and reaching the Derby,” stated Barnes. Racing at Sunland is also subject to its unique challenges, including how conditions of elevation can affect performance. But their horses generally cope well, Barnes said.

With the win, Getaway Car accumulated 20 valuable Kentucky Derby-qualifying points, keeping Baffert’s operation alive for its second try at the Derby. The group will most likely make its next target another key prep race, possibly on the West Coast in the San Felipe Stakes at Santa Anita.

For Barnes, this victory was greater than merely another title—this was confirmation of ongoing domination. “Yes, it was tremendous racing. We’ll relish this one, but on to the next challenge.” With Getaway Car on track and Baffert’s operation on the Kentucky Derby, everyone will have their eyes on where this emerging star is headed next. With this kind of horse racing, though, Getaway Car is well on its way to making that journey to Louisville.