Arcadia, CA (Best E Casino) - McCann's Mojave, ridden by Jose Valdivia, Jr., led every step of the way in winning Sunday's $250,000 California Cup Classic on the final day of racing in the Oak Tree meeting at Santa Anita Park.

The Classic was the featured race on the day at Santa Anita Park that highlights California-bred thoroughbreds.

McCann's Mojave was sent off as the 3-1 second choice in the field of eight. The five-year-old set the pace from the starting gate while being stalked by 7-5 favorite Desert Boom. Also pressing the pace was Cheroot and Deputy Doc Renzi.

Turning for home, McCann's Mojave remained in the lead while Texcess joined Desert Boom on the outside. Down the stretch none of the other horses could catch McCann's Mojave, who ended up winning by a length.

Desert Boom finished second followed by Cheroot, Texcess, Mr. Joe C, Deputy Doc Renzi, Carano and Devil Badgett.

The time for the 1 1/8 miles on a fast track was 1:48.31.

The win was worth $150,000 and brings McCann's Mojave's career earnings to more than $555,000. This was only the horse's second win of the year, having taken the Ack Ack Handicap at Hollywood Park in June. McCann's Mojave is owned by Alix Nikki Hunt and Mike Willman, and trained by Pat Gallagher.

McCann's Mojave returned $8.60, $3.80 and $3.20. Desert Boom paid $3.00 and $2.40, and Cheroot paid $4.00 for show.