The Breeders’ Cup Classic is one of the most prestigious events in the horse racing world, drawing top thoroughbreds from across the globe. As we approach the 2024 edition, excitement is mounting among racing enthusiasts.
The rankings, established by a panel comprising top Thoroughbred racing members, horseplayers, and media of the Breeders’ Cup racing directors-secretaries panel, play a vital role in anticipating the event. Voters rate the horses using a 10-9-8-7-6-5-4-3-2-1 system, offering weekly updates on the leading contenders.
Here, we explore the top five front-runners for the 2024 Breeders’ Cup Classic, delving into their recent performances and prospects.
Dornoch
Trainer Danny Gargan’s Dornoch tops the rankings with 284 votes, including 7 first-place votes. This remarkable horse, partly owned by Atlanta-based West Paces Racing, has made headlines with impressive victories.
The 156th running of the Belmont Stakes saw Dornoch, a 17-1 long shot, clinch victory under jockey Luis Saez. This win marked the first Belmont Stakes victory for Gargan and owner Jayson Werth, a former Major League Baseball All-Star. Gargan described Dornoch as “the best horse I’ve ever trained.”
Dornoch’s pedigree is noteworthy. He is a full brother to Mage (2023 Derby winner). Their sire, Good Magic, finished second in the 2018 Kentucky Derby, while their dam, Puca, is a progeny of 2008 Derby winner Big Brown.
Purchased for $325,000 at the 2022 Keeneland September Yearling Sale, Dornoch has proven to be a wise investment. Overcoming various challenges, he has consistently shown resilience and determination, securing his place as a top contender for the Breeders’ Cup Classic and attracting significant attention from bettors on FanDuel.
National Treasure
National Treasure is a formidable competitor with 284 votes, including 16 first-place votes. Trained by Bob Baffert, this horse has demonstrated exceptional prowess in high-stakes races. National Treasure’s victories include the Pegasus World Cup Invitational and the Hill ‘n’ Dale Metropolitan Handicap, solidifying his reputation as a consistent performer in Grade 1 races.
Ridden by top jockey Flavian Prat, National Treasure leads a 12-horse field in the Whitney Stakes, aiming to secure an automatic entry into the Breeders’ Cup Classic. Baffert’s confidence in National Treasure is well-founded, given his track record of success in prestigious events. This horse’s ability to deliver under pressure makes him a pivotal contender to watch in the upcoming Classic.
Fierceness
Trainer Todd Pletcher’s Fierceness ranks third with 211 votes, including 2 first-place votes. This horse has shown remarkable strength and resilience, particularly in the Jim Dandy Stakes at Saratoga Race Course. Fierceness secured a crucial victory overcoming significant challenges, demonstrating his potential as a top contender for the Breeders’ Cup Classic.
Fierceness, sired by City of Light, has consistently performed well in high-stakes races. Pletcher has indicated plans for Fierceness to participate in the Travers Stakes, which could further solidify his position as a leading competitor. This horse’s ability to rebound from setbacks and deliver strong performances underlines his readiness for the Breeders’ Cup Classic.
Forever Young
Yoshito Yahagi’s Forever Young has garnered 200 votes, including 1 first-place vote, earning his place among the top contenders. This horse has a diverse international racing record, with significant victories in the Saudi and UAE Derby. Despite narrowly missing out in the Kentucky Derby due to interference, Forever Young’s performance showcased his resilience and potential.
Preparation for the Japan Dirt Classic, a critical race in Tokyo, is underway for Forever Young. Known for his versatility and endurance, this horse has demonstrated the capability to compete at the highest level. Yahagi’s strategic training and Forever Young’s proven track record make him a strong candidate for success in the Breeders’ Cup Classic.
Sierra Leone
Rounding out the top five is Sierra Leone, trained by Chad Brown, with 171 votes and 1 first-place vote. This three-year-old colt has had a successful racing career, including wins in the Blue Grass Stakes and Risen Star Stakes. A solid second-place finish in the Jim Dandy Stakes highlighted Sierra Leone’s ability to compete against top-tier horses.
Sierra Leone, sired by Gun Runner out of the Malibu Moon mare Heavenly Love, has consistently shown good energy and performance in high-stakes races. Trainer Chad Brown has set his sights on the Travers Stakes, aiming to position Sierra Leone as a top contender for the Breeders’ Cup Classic. This colt’s resilience and competitive spirit make him a horse to watch in the upcoming races.
Takeaway
The 2024 Breeders’ Cup Classic promises to be an exhilarating event, with these five front-runners leading the charge. Each horse has demonstrated remarkable achievements and potential, setting the stage for an intense competition. Dornoch’s impressive victories, National Treasure’s consistent performance, Fierceness’s resilience, Forever Young’s international success, and Sierra Leone’s strong finishes all contribute to the excitement surrounding this year’s Classic.
As the race approaches, fans and experts will closely monitor these top contenders, eager to see who will emerge victorious. Staying updated on the latest horse racing news and following the journey of these exceptional athletes will ensure you don’t miss any thrilling developments leading up to the Breeders’ Cup Classic.
