ARCADIA, Calif. — Royal Delta led all the way in winning the $2 million Ladies’ Classic by 1½ lengths on Friday at Santa Anita, making the defending champion the only favorite to win on an upset-filled opening day of the Breeders’ Cup.

Jockey Mike Smith earned his 16th victory in the event’s 29-year history, breaking a tie for most wins with fellow Hall of Famer Jerry Bailey.

“I hope to be around a few more years to add to it,” the 47-year-old rider said.

Royal Delta gave Hall of Fame trainer Bill Mott his second consecutive win and fifth overall in the Ladies’ Classic, putting him in position to sweep the weekend’s biggest races, a feat he accomplished last year. He has three runners in the $5 million Classic on Saturday, a race he won last year with Drosselmeyer.

“We’re certainly not counting our chickens before they hatch,” Mott said. “I think any one of the three has a chance.”

Royal Delta was the 8-5 favorite in the field of eight fillies and mares, considered one of the deepest fields among the 15 races during the world championships. She ran 1 1/8 miles in 1:48.80 and paid $5.40, $3.60 and $2.60. She won by 2 ½ lengths last year with Jose Lezcano aboard.

This time, Royal Delta took charge early, making her way to the lead on a brisk pace.