On Thursday, the Yorkshire Oaks Group 1 race saw Pink Warm Heart come out victorious, adding to its impressive track record. This win sets Pink Warm Heart up as a likely contender for the upcoming Breeders’ Cup. The photo of the thrilling race was captured by Dominick James from Eclipse Sportswire and was made available by Breeders’ Cup.
Moving on to the Travers Stakes at Saratoga Racecourse, this year’s edition promises to be historic and captivating. The race brings together the winners of the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes, who will face off against the 2022 juvenile champion, Forte. This clash between these talented horses is aptly named the “Midsummer Derby.” However, despite their impressive achievements, none of these past winners are the morning-line favorite. Mage, the Kentucky Derby winner, finished third in the Preakness Stakes, while National Treasure, the Preakness Stakes winner, finished sixth in the Belmont Stakes. Arcangelo, who missed the first two races, surprised everyone by winning the Belmont Stakes. Notably missing from the lineup is Forte, the 2022 2-year-old champion. Forte would have been the favorite in the Derby but was unable to participate due to a foot injury. After skipping the Preakness, Forte finished second in the Belmont Stakes before securing victory in the Grade II Jim Dandy at Saratoga. Consequently, Forte is considered the morning-line pick for the Travers Stakes. This race holds great significance as the winner will dominate the 3-year-old division and potentially compete for Horse of the Year honors, pending the outcome of the Breeders’ Cup Classic.
It is essential to note that the Travers Stakes is not limited to just these four contenders. With a track that has earned the nickname “graveyard of champions,” there are other formidable horses in the mix. Tapit Trice, who finished third in the Belmont Stakes, and Disarm, a closing fourth in the Kentucky Derby, both have the potential to upset the favorites. Additionally, Scotland, the long shot, boasts an impressive record with three wins and a second-place finish in four starts, including a victory in the restricted Curlin Stakes at Saratoga.
While the Travers Stakes takes center stage this weekend, there are other exhilarating races happening across North America. The Ebor meeting in York, England, has already seen three races with guaranteed entries into the Breeders’ Cup. Saratoga and Del Mar are also hosting “Win and You’re In” races, intensifying the competition leading up to the prestigious event. To stay up-to-date with all the action and gain expert insights, industry insider Jude Feld offers his expertise at popejude.com.
In terms of turf races, the Grade I Resorts World Casino Sword Dancer Stakes at Saratoga presents intriguing options. Noteworthy contenders include Channel Maker, a 9-year-old with an unexpected win at long odds in the Grade II Bowling Green; Bolshoi Ballet, representing the prestigious Coolmore-Aidan O’Brien connections; and Stone Age, the morning-line favorite, who had a strong performance in last year’s Breeders’ Cup. Other horses to watch in this race are Soldier Rising, Verstappen, and Daunt.
One shouldn’t overlook the thrilling Filly & Mare Turf race, the Grade II Ballston Spa Stakes at Saratoga. Evvie Jets, a 5-year-old mare by Twirling Candy, delivered a commendable performance, winning against strong competition. She prevailed despite fierce challenges from the likes of Fluffy Socks and British invader Jumbly.
The Turf Sprint category also promises excitement, with Roses for Debra emerging as a standout in the $150,000 Smart N Fancy Stakes for fillies and mares at Saratoga. With six wins out of eight starts, this 4-year-old Liam’s Map progeny is certainly one to watch. In Tuesday’s Parx Dash, Nobody Listens took the crown, followed closely by Just Jeremy, who unfortunately was disqualified for interference. This thrilling race showcased the impressive skills of these speedsters.
The Classic races are not to be missed, with the Grade II Charles Town Classic and the St. Louis Derby taking place on Friday and Saturday, respectively. Giant Game and Skippylongstocking, two talented horses, headline the Charles Town Classic. Meanwhile, the St. Louis Derby brings together a strong field of seven contenders, including horses trained by top Midwest trainers such as Brad Cox and Kenny McPeek.
In the Distaff category, the Grade I Personal Ensign at Saratoga is poised to be an intense battle between old rivals. Clairiere, Nest, and Secret Oath have been going head-to-head this season and have consistently shown their skills as multiple graded stakes winners. It’s anyone’s guess as to who will come out on top in this closely contested race.
With so many incredible races happening this weekend, it’s an exciting time for horse racing enthusiasts. Stay tuned for updates on the outcomes of these thrilling contests.
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