The highly anticipated day for racing enthusiasts and horseplayers is just around the corner, as the Breeders’ Cup Saturday program prepares to showcase the finest equine talents from around the globe. On Saturday, Nov. 2, at the picturesque Del Mar racetrack, nine championship races will unfold, each featuring renowned international stars of both horse racing and jockeying ready to compete for glory.
At the center of this thrilling event is the Longines Breeders’ Cup Classic, boasting a staggering purse of $7 million, making it the richest horse race in all of North America.
Television coverage will kick off on NBC and Peacock, providing an extensive 2 1/2 hours of live programming from 3:30 to 6 p.m. ET / 12:30 to 3 p.m. PT, featuring four exhilarating Breeders’ Cup races, culminating in the highly anticipated Longines Breeders’ Cup Classic. Following this, Peacock will extend its coverage of the final four Breeders’ Cup races starting at 6 p.m. ET / 3 p.m. PT. Additionally, fans can enjoy live streaming of these races through BreedersCup.com and the Breeders’ Cup social media platforms, with USA Network airing live coverage from 2 to 3:30 p.m. ET / 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. PT, showcasing one undercard race as well as the first Breeders’ Cup race. Meanwhile, all races except the Classic will be featured on FanDuel TV, covering the first three undercard races as well as each of Saturday’s Breeders’ Cup races.
$1 million PNC Bank Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Sprint
Distance: 7 furlongs on dirt
Post time: 3 p.m. ET
Wagering Menu: Win/place/show, exacta, trifecta, superfecta, super hi-5, double, Pick 3, Pick 5
Background: The Filly & Mare Sprint made its debut in 2007 as the Breeders’ Cup expanded to encompass more than eight races for the first time. Over its 17 editions, this race has displayed a remarkable pattern; no horse has ever managed to win it wire-to-wire. Interestingly, after a decade without a 3-year-old clinching the title, sophomores claimed victory three consecutive times during 2018, 2019, and 2020—a trend that could influence the 2024 race, which is likely to see a favored 3-year-old competitor.
Favorites: Among the top contenders is the outstanding 3-year-old filly Ways and Means, who has triumphed in her last three races, including a prestigious win at the Grade 1 Test Stakes held at Saratoga Race Course. A strong rival, One Magic Philly, hailing from Southern California and boasting stakes wins, also emerges as a serious contender. Society, although needing to overcome the race’s historical bias against front-runners, adds intrigue as one of the favorites, bolstered by her impressive victory in the Grade 1 Ballerina Handicap at Saratoga.
Interesting Storylines: Jockey Irad Ortiz Jr. has carved a formidable reputation in this race, having claimed victory in four of the last seven editions. With the Filly & Mare Sprint poised to crown a new champion in 2024 after the dominance of Goodnight Olive over the past two years, racing fans will be eager to see who rises to the challenge.
$1 million Prevagen Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint
Distance: 5 furlongs on turf
Post time: 3:41 p.m. ET
Wagering Menu: Win/place/show, exacta, trifecta, superfecta, super hi-5, double, Pick 3, Pick 4, All-turf Pick 4
Background: First contested in 2008, this race initially took place over approximately 6 ½ furlongs on Santa Anita’s downhill turf course, evolving into a swift 5 or 5 ½-furlong sprint over the last seven years. At Del Mar, the distance is consistently set at five furlongs. While Southern California trainers have historically excelled in this race, no SoCal stable has claimed victory since Peter Miller’s last win in 2019.
Favorites: The upcoming 2024 Turf Sprint is expected to be a thrilling contest between spectacular speedsters from the U.S. and Europe. Cogburn has dominated his American competition with a flawless 3-for-3 record this year, while Bradsell boasts impressive finishes either first or second in top-tier Group 1 turf sprints across England, Ireland, and France.
Interesting Storylines: A standout in this race will be last year’s Juvenile Turf Sprint champion Big Evs, who aims to become a Breeders’ Cup winner across two divisions—an achievement that only seven horses have accomplished in history. Just for reference, Golden Pal remarkably achieved this back-to-back in 2020 and 2021.
$2 million Longines Breeders’ Cup Distaff
Distance: 1 1/8 miles on dirt
Post time: 4:21 p.m. ET
Wagering Menu: Win/place/show, exacta, trifecta, superfecta, super hi-5, double, Pick 3, Pick 4, All-dirt Pick 4, Distaff – Classic Daily Double
Background: Historically known as the Ladies’ Classic for a brief period, the Distaff showcases Hall of Fame-caliber fillies and mares among its victors, including legendary champions like Princess Rooney, Lady’s Secret, and Zenyatta. The 2023 champion in this division is Idiomatic, aiming to defend her title.
Favorites: Reigning champion 3-year-old filly Thorpedo Anna leads the division after securing multiple victories, including the Longines Kentucky Oaks. She will vie against the undefeated Japanese contender Awesome Result, boasting a perfect 7-for-7 track record and aspiring to follow the path of Japan’s Marche Lorraine, who upset the Distaff in 2021.
Interesting Storylines: Notably, the Distaff has often brought thrilling matchups between 3-year-olds and older fillies. Despite a historical trend showing 3-year-olds winning only four times in the past 19 years, the promise of a captivating race remains, especially with standout competitors like Thorpedo Anna.
$5 million Longines Breeders’ Cup Turf
Distance: 1 ½ miles on turf
Post time: 5:01 p.m. ET
Wagering Menu: Win/place/show, exacta, trifecta, superfecta, super hi-5, double, Pick 3, Pick 4, mandatory payout Pick 6
Background: This significant $5 million race consistently attracts top international talent, with a significant portion of pre-entered entrants coming from abroad, including potential entries from the stable of Aidan O’Brien. Historically, only three U.S.-based horses have triumphed since English Channel’s win in 2007: Little Mike, Main Sequence, and Bricks and Mortar.
Favorites: The Turf promises to be competitive, with renowned overseas talent in the mix, including 2022 Breeders’ Cup Turf winner Rebel’s Romance, who looks to redeem a slightly dismal season in 2023 with an impressive comeback. The aspirations also rise for 3-year-old Jayarebe under British trainer Brian Meehan. American hopeful Far Bridge arrives on the heels of consecutive Grade 1 wins, capturing victories at Saratoga and Belmont.
Interesting Storylines: Trainer Aidan O’Brien, who ended a six-year victory drought last year, seeks to further enhance his legendary status, aiming for an eighth career win in this race with multiple strong entrants including Illinois and Luxembourg. Should he succeed, it would mark a history-making moment for the accomplished trainer.
$7 million Longines Breeders’ Cup Classic
Distance: 1 1/4 miles on the dirt
Post time: 5:41 p.m. ET
Wagering Menu: Win/place/show, exacta, trifecta, superfecta, super hi-5, double, Pick 3, mandatory payout Pick 5
Background: The Classic stands as the highlight event of the day, representing the pinnacle of horse racing with its massive $7 million purse. Spanning a classic distance of 1 ¼ miles, it’s a pivotal race significantly influencing various Eclipse Award divisions. A parade of American racing legends has previously triumphed in the Classic, showcasing its historical importance.
Favorites: The 2024 Classic showcases a rich blend of contenders, including top dirt race winners like Arthur’s Ride, Highland Falls, and Senor Buscador, alongside Fierceness, the recent DraftKings Travers Stakes champion and last year’s Breeders’ Cup Juvenile winner, aiming for redemption after a turbulent season.
Interesting Storylines: The quest for foreign-based horses to clinch a victory in the Breeders’ Cup Classic has often been fraught with challenges. The last successful attempt was by Raven’s Pass in 2008, and prior to that, Arcangues marked a remarkable upset in 1993. The 2024 race may renew this narrative, as several outstanding contenders from overseas, including City of Troy and Japan’s Derma Sotogake, seek to make their mark on the dirt track.
$2 million Maker’s Mark Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Turf
Distance: 1 3/8 miles on turf
Post time: 6:25 p.m. ET
Wagering Menu: Win/place/show, exacta, trifecta, superfecta, super hi-5, double, Pick 3, Pick 4
Background: Having initiated in 1999, the Filly & Mare Turf marked the Breeders’ Cup’s progressive expansion. With over a decade of dominance from two categories of horses—foreign competitors and Chad Brown-trained entries—the 2024 contest will be intriguing as Brown will not have any entrants. The last non-Brown horse to win this race was Perfect Shirl in 2011.
Favorites: Despite her rocky form, Content has demonstrated the potential for a comeback, highlighted by a recent victory on firm ground. Additionally, Cinderella’s Dream, a promising 3-year-old, is being prepared for a strong showing after recent wins in New York.
Interesting Storylines: Full Count Felicia made headlines with her spectacular performance at Woodbine, defeating two recent Canadian Horses of the Year. She could maintain a similar strategy in this race to secure another significant victory. Veteran mare War Like Goddess aims to solidify her status with a strong finish that would elevate her career earnings beyond the $3 million mark.
$2 million Cygames Breeders’ Cup Sprint
Distance: 6 furlongs on dirt
Post time: 7:05 p.m. ET
Wagering Menu: Win/place/show, exacta, trifecta, superfecta, super hi-5, double, Pick 3
Background: The Sprint remains one of the original seven Breeders’ Cup races, consistently held at its six-furlong distance. In the current decade, jockeys Jose Ortiz and Irad Ortiz Jr. have dominated this race, with high-profile victories among them. Historical performance at Del Mar includes two previous winners, showcasing the intensity of competition.
Favorites: The 2024 Sprint is expected to feature a crowded field with Mullikin boasting an unbeaten record this year, alongside Skelly, who has consistently finished near the top. Other formidable contenders include Nakatomi, Federal Judge, and Raging Torrent, each demonstrating impressive form and readiness for the challenge.
Interesting Storylines: Traditionally, the Sprint has favored speed horses positioned closely to the lead, but recent editions have featured victorious late runners, creating an interesting dynamic for the upcoming race. The performance of speed horses this year will be pivotal in determining if another late runner such as Nakatomi emerges victorious.
$2 million Fanduel Breeders’ Cup Mile Presented by PDJF
Distance: 1 mile on turf
Post time: 7:45 p.m. ET
Wagering Menu: Win/place/show, exacta, trifecta, superfecta, super hi-5, double
Background: As one of the primary seven Breeders’ Cup events, the Mile attracts a distinguished international field. However, recent years have largely favored European connections, with North American horses having claimed victory less frequently. Notable victories in the Mile include legendary American turf horses, underscoring its historical significance.
Favorites: The aspirations for a fourth consecutive win for trainer Charles Appleby will rest on Notable Speech, a versatile Group 1 stakes winner, while American contenders Carl Spackler and Johannes also bring strong credentials to the race.
Interesting Storylines: History indicates that front-runners face tremendous challenges in the Mile, with only a handful having emerged victorious. The prevailing trend favoring late-closing strategies raises intriguing questions heading into this year’s race, making it an exciting event for fans.
$1 million Big Ass Fans Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile
Distance: 1 mile on dirt
Post time: 8:25 p.m. ET
Wagering Menu: Win/place/show, exacta, trifecta, superfecta, super hi-5
Background: First introduced at the 2007 Breeders’ Cup, the Dirt Mile has steadily advanced in prestige, now recognized as a key event in the Breeders’ Cup lineup, featuring impressive past winners.
Favorites: The strongest competitor may emerge as Domestic Product, who enters following a noteworthy victory in the Grade 1 H. Allen Jerkens Memorial Stakes at Saratoga.
Interesting Storylines: Aiming for an Eclipse Award, Seize the Grey, victorious in the 2024 Preakness Stakes and Pennsylvania Derby, seeks to elevate his standing within the prestigious three-year-old division with another Grade 1 win in the Dirt Mile.
Interview with Racing Expert John Thompson Ahead of the Breeders’ Cup
Editor: Thank you for joining us today, John. The Breeders’ Cup is just around the corner, and excitement is building. What are you most looking forward to in this year’s event at Del Mar?
John Thompson: Thanks for having me! I think the Longines Breeders’ Cup Classic definitely stands out this year. With a staggering $7 million purse, it always attracts top talent, and this year’s lineup promises to deliver some thrilling races. I’m especially interested in seeing how the contenders from overseas perform, considering the challenges they face on North American dirt.
Editor: There are many races on the card, but the $1 million Filly & Mare Sprint seems to be generating a lot of buzz. What do you think about the favorites in that race?
John Thompson: Absolutely! The Filly & Mare Sprint has a storied history, and I’m particularly excited about the 3-year-old filly, Ways and Means. Her form has been fantastic, winning her last three races, and she’ll be someone to watch. However, One Magic Philly and Society are also formidable challengers, bringing their own strengths to the race.
Editor: Jockey Irad Ortiz Jr. has had notable success in this event. Can we expect him to make an impact in this year’s race?
John Thompson: Irad Ortiz Jr. is a key player! With victories in four of the last seven editions, he clearly knows how to navigate the pressures of the Breeders’ Cup. The question will be whether he can leverage his experience to find a winning strategy again, especially with the field being so competitive this year.
Editor: Shifting to the $5 million Longines Breeders’ Cup Turf, it’s always a showcase for international talent. Any insights on who to look out for?
John Thompson: The Turf is going to be a fascinating race! The former champion Rebel’s Romance is trying to bounce back from a rough season, while American contenders like Far Bridge are coming off impressive Grade 1 wins. Aidan O’Brien’s entries like Illinois and Luxembourg are noteworthy, too. O’Brien has a knack for bringing out the best in his horses at these events.
Editor: as we approach the final stretch of the event, the Classic remains the highlight. Who do you think will take home the trophy this year?
John Thompson: It’s tough to call! You have multiple top dirt race winners like Arthur’s Ride and the DraftKings Travers champion, Fierceness. It’s a mix of local and international talent, which adds to the intrigue. It’ll be interesting to see how they handle the pressure, especially with the weight of that $7 million purse at stake.
Editor: Great insights, John! It sounds like we’re in for a thrilling day of racing on November 2. Thank you for sharing your expertise with us!
John Thompson: My pleasure! I can’t wait for the races to begin!
R of the last seven editions of the Filly & Mare Sprint, his experience and skill will certainly be critical. He knows how to navigate through a competitive field, and riding a horse like Ways and Means gives him a strong chance of adding another victory to his impressive resume.
Editor: Switching gears to the Turf Sprint, we’ve seen spectacular speeders in the past. Who are you keeping an eye on this time around?
John Thompson: The Turf Sprint is always a fascinating race, particularly this year with contenders like Cogburn and Bradsell. Cogburn has been undefeated this season in the U.S., and his performance will be crucial against the European challengers. Bradsell has shown he can excel in top-tier races across Europe, so it’s shaping up to be a thrilling showdown between those two.
Editor: There’s a rich history with the Longines Breeders’ Cup Distaff as well. How do you assess the matchup between 3-year-olds and older fillies this year?
John Thompson: That’s a compelling storyline. The Distaff often brings out the fiercest competition between different age groups. While historically, 3-year-olds have struggled against older fillies, Thorpedo Anna comes in with the momentum of a strong season, including a victory in the Longines Kentucky Oaks. It’ll be interesting to see if she can continue that trend against the seasoned veterans.
Editor: The Classic is always the highlight of the day. With a $7 million purse, it’s what every horse aims for. How do you think the international competitors will fare?
John Thompson: The Classic truly is the pinnacle of the Breeders’ Cup. International competitors face unique challenges on dirt, but we’ve seen horses like City of Troy and Derma Sotogake show promising form. It’ll be a tough endeavor for them, but if they can adapt to the conditions, we might just see an upset. The purse certainly raises the stakes!
Editor: The Filly & Mare Turf is another race that’s expected to be competitive, particularly with Chad Brown’s absence this year. Who do you think will excel without his usual presence in the lineup?
John Thompson: That’s a significant change for the Filly & Mare Turf. Without Chad Brown’s dominant entries, we’re likely to see new contenders step up. Content has shown she’s capable of a comeback, and Cinderella’s Dream is gaining momentum from recent wins. It opens the door for others to shine and adds an extra layer of intrigue to the race.
Editor: As the races progress into the evening, are there any under-the-radar horses you believe could surprise us in the later events?
John Thompson: Certainly! In the Sprint, keep an eye on Nakatomi as he has shown remarkable consistency and could capitalize on any errors from the leaders. In the Mile, Johannes is turning heads with solid form and may pose a significant challenge to the favorites. It’s those unexpected performances that often make these events memorable.
Editor: Thank you, John. Your insights into the Breeders’ Cup are greatly appreciated, and we look forward to an exciting weekend of racing!
John Thompson: Thank you for having me! The Breeders’ Cup always brings a fresh thrill, and I can’t wait to see how it unfolds.
