Category: Big Races

Author: Lindsay Griffin

The Kentucky Derby is a racing tradition that has been going on every year since 1875, meaning that there are precisely 149 previous iterations of the race.

Every running has its own story: its own characters, its own plots, its own tragedy, its own triumphs. Every year, at some point, someone turns to another and says “This is the greatest Kentucky Derby ever run!”

And still, there are some stories that stick out more than others. There are some winners whose histories make them more sympathetic, and whose charisma makes their mark more lasting.

One of those was 2009 Kentucky Derby winner Mine That Bird, a plucky little gelding who became one of the longest-priced winners in Derby history- and who is coming to the Kentucky Derby Museum this year as a part of the 2024 Legends Series With Maker’s Mark.

Who Is Mine That Bird?

Mine That Bird’s career is a study in ups and downs.

Although the gelding, who is by Belmont Stakes winner Birdstone and out of the Smart Strike mare Mining My Own, was bred in Kentucky, he raced for almost all of his two-year-old season at Woodbine, a track in Toronto, Canada.

He won a maiden claiming race in his second start and then was put in stakes company. He did well, winning the listed Silver Deputy and Swynford Stakes before taking the Grade III Grey Stakes. A trip to Southern California for the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile did not pay off- Mine That Bird finished twelfth- but he was still named the Sovereign Award Champion Two-Year-Old Male (Canada’s equivalent of the Eclipse Awards). Therefore he continued being a good option for anyone using a horse racing bonus by TwinSpires.com.

In the spring of 2009, Mine That Bird was transferred to trainer Chip Woolley and brought to the United States. He was somewhat successful, picking up a second-place finish in the Borderland Derby and a fourth in the Sunland Derby (both listed).

Odds Favoring Mine That Bird

Nowadays, that race record would not gain a horse enough points to qualify for the Kentucky Derby; however, at the time, the points system was still several years away. Instead, qualifications for the Kentucky Derby were based on earnings in graded stakes races, regardless of whether those races are typically considered Kentucky Derby prep races. Mine That Bird’s performance in the aforementioned Grey Stakes gave him enough earnings to qualify for the Run for the Roses, in spite of the fact that his current form did not look to be competitive when compared to the rest of the entrants.

However, there were a few strokes of luck that proved favorable for Mine That Bird. First was the fact that there was a ton of early speed in the race. This meant that the frontrunners were likely to speed up the pace and tire themselves out, setting up for a deep closer- such as Mine That Bird. Secondly, Mine That Bird had gained the services of Calvin Borel, a jockey who was especially skilled at guiding closers along the rail to victory. He had done exactly that two years prior with Street Sense.

Join in the Dance, one of only two horses in the race whose odds were longer than that of Mine That Bird, broke fast and led for the first mile of the race, holding off Regal Ransom with Papa Clem and Pioneerofthe Nile just behind. By the time the field entered the stretch, Borel had expertly guided Mine That Bird along the rail to the front, and they widened from there, eventually winning by 6 3/4 lengths, the largest margin of victory in nearly six decades.

Unfortunately for Mine That Bird, that proved to be his last victory. He ran well in the Preakness and the Belmont, finishing second and third, but after another third in the Grade III West Virginia Derby, his form tailed off badly and he failed to hit the board in his six remaining career starts.

As a gelding, Mine That Bird would not be able to provide stallion services and was thus instead retired to work as a ranch horse with co-owner Mark Allen. Although Allen sold his Double Eagle Ranch in New Mexico, he and Mine That Bird still work together daily at HV Ranch in Texas.

What Is The Exhibit?

Mine That Bird’s exhibit will be a feature of the last night of the event, which is dedicated to the longest shots to win the Kentucky Derby. Artifacts connected to other famous longshots, such as 1913 91-1 winner Donerail and 2022 80-1 victor Rich Strike, will be on display, and some of them will be auctioned off, with proceeds benefiting the Kentucky Derby Museum as well as the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

The evening, which will take place on March 27th from 5:00 until 8:00, will also feature Mine That Bird in the Museum Stable. Guests will be able to see Mine That Bird during the stable’s showcase. He will remain at the stable until mid-April.

The upcoming Pegasus World Cup 2024 is quickly approaching! This highly respected horse race in South Florida will once again be held at Gulfstream Park on Sunday, January 27th. With a total of $14.875 million in purses, there’s a lot of anticipation and excitement surrounding this prestigious event.

As racing enthusiasts gear up for the event, all eyes will be on the top invitees. In this article, we’ll round up the top contenders who will vie for supremacy and aim to etch their names in the annals of Pegasus World Cup history. Check them out here:

Master of Seas

One of the top Pegasus World Cup contenders is Master of the Seas. This Irish-bred horse has established an impressive record with eight victories in 16 lifetime starts, accumulating earnings exceeding $2.2 million.

This exceptional equine athlete recently showcased its prowess by making a remarkable comeback from a trailing position to secure a significant win in the 2023 Breeders’ Cup Mile (G1) on the grass at Santa Anita last November.

Known for its speed, stamina, and strategic racing acumen, Master of the Seas has proven to be a formidable competitor on the turf. The horse’s ability to navigate challenging courses and emerge victorious in prestigious events underscores its status as a top-tier racehorse.

Atone

The next primary contender anticipated in the Pegasus Turf is the defending race champion, Atone. This seasoned 7-year-old gelding boasts seven wins and $1.3 million in earnings from a total of 29 career starts.

Atone’s achievements extend beyond his Pegasus Turf success. He also had great placements in four other graded stakes races. Notable among these are his second-place finishes in the 2021 Fort Lauderdale (G2) at Gulfstream and the 2022 Forbidden Apple (G3) and Mint Million (G3).

However, it’s noteworthy that Atone has yet to secure a victory in any of his six starts since his triumphant performance in the previous race edition. Despite being the reigning titleholder, Atone faces the challenge of breaking a winless streak, adding an element of intrigue and uncertainty to his bid for success in the upcoming Pegasus Turf event.

Therapist

Atone’s stablemate Therapist is also on the list of invitees for the 2024 Pegasus World Cup. He was pushed by Trainer Mike Maker, who secured his initial triumph in the Pegasus Turf with Zulu Alpha in 2020.

Owned by Michael Dubb, Therapist boasts an impressive record as a 14-time winner, accumulating over $1.3 million in purse earnings. The seasoned horse has claimed victory in nine stakes races, achieving Grade 1 status with a notable win in the United Nations on July 22. Additionally, Therapist displayed prowess by securing the 2018 Cutler Bay at Gulfstream, further enhancing his credentials as a formidable contender in high-profile turf competitions.

Warm Heart

Another invitee from Europe besides Master of Seas is the Irish-bred 4-year-old filly Warm Heart. This talented equine athlete ventured to North America for her only start in the Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Turf (G1) on November 4, narrowly finishing second by a neck to the favored Inspiral.

Prior to her impressive performance in the United States, Warm Heart won the Qatar Prix Vermeille (G1) at Longchamp and Yorkshire Oaks (G1). Her international racing resume further extends to her commendable third-place finish in the Hong Kong Vase (G1) just last month.

Saudi Crown

Saudi Crown, the offspring of Always Dreaming, has earned its Grade 1 credentials through a noteworthy victory in the $1-million Pennsylvania Derby (G1) at Parx. Despite facing a formidable field, the horse demonstrated both speed and stamina, securing a Grade 1 title.

The early chapters of Saudi Crown’s racing career featured consecutive victories, establishing the horse as a rising star. Following its initial success, the 4-year-old runner delivered strong performances, finishing second in both the Dwyer (G3) at Belmont and the Jim Dandy (G2) at Saratoga.

However, it faced a challenging moment in the Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1) at Santa Anita, where it finished off the board, representing its only performance falling below the second-place mark. This setback, however, serves as a testament to the competitive nature of top-tier horse racing.

Adhamo

Adhamo, owned by Madaket Stables, Louis Lazzinnaro, Michael Caruso, and Michael Dubb, is under the tutelage of renowned trainer Chad Brown. Notably, Brown secured victory in the inaugural Pegasus Turf in 2019 with the eventual Horse of the Year, Bricks and Mortar.

This 6-year-old Irish-bred horse is considered a Group 3 winner in France. Apart from Europe, this promising horse has participated in nine races in North America, the last eight being Grade 1 events. Among his notable accomplishments is a triumph in the 2022 United Nations. It has also clinched victories in the Hollywood Derby (G1) and the Saratoga Derby Invitational (G1) in 2023.

Final Thoughts

All these horses have top-tier talent and impressive track records and achievements, making them top contenders for the Pegasus World Cup. Note that this list is not exhaustive, and the dynamic nature of horse racing can introduce new contenders and developments. Make sure to keep yourself informed about the newest updates and entries in order to fully enjoy the unfolding events of the Pegasus World Cup.

Horse racing fans have plenty to look forward to in 2024, with the upcoming calendar packed with a ton of top-class action taking place across the world.

Next year undoubtedly looks exciting in the United Kingdom and Ireland, with top trainer Aidan O’Brien set to unleash a horse that looks to be a potential superstar.

Australian horse racing fans also have a stellar year lined up, with the Melbourne Cup at Flemington Racecourse in November the undoubted highlight.

Picking the potential winners of races this far in advance is no easy task, so punters would be well advised to ensure they keep a close eye on respected tipping sites.

When it comes to reliable information, whether you are looking for horse racing tips tomorrow or a little further down the line, OnlyRacing.com.au has all the bases covered.

With that mind, we take a closer look at two horses we believe will deliver sizeable winning returns to punters when they contest the biggest races in 2024.

City of Troy – Epsom Derby

O’Brien spoke in glowing terms about City of Troy after the horse produced a devasting performance to turn the Dewhurst Stakes at Newmarket Racecourse into a procession last month.

The son of Justify is now odds-on with some betting firms to win next year’s 2000 Guineas at the same venue, while he is priced at 3.50 to win the Epsom Derby.

O’Brien says that City of Troy is ‘the best two-year-old he had ever trained’ – high praise given the number of quality performers he has previously had in his stable.

Timeform handicapper Simon Baker gave the horse a rating of 125p after that victory, which places him in the same bracket as a previous superstar of the sport.

“City of Troy’s Dewhurst win was the best performance in the race since Frankel, and while we could wait a lifetime and not see anything in that league again, there can be no doubt that City of Troy is a tremendous prospect in his own right,” Baker said.

“Not all recent high-achieving Dewhurst winners have advanced their form markedly at three, but everything about City of Troy, from his powerful physique to his strong-galloping style, suggests he can go on improving, which makes him just about the most exciting horse around for 2024.”

Balance Play – Melbourne Cup

The recent Tattersalls Autumn Horses in Training Sale at Newmarket may well have produced an early pointer for a potential winner of the 2024 Melbourne Cup.

Balance Play was bought by McKeever Bloodstock, Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott for AU$1.155 million and has been touted as an ideal candidate for ‘the race that stops the nation’.

The horse was rated 101 going into the session, having won three of his six starts in high-class handicaps during his three-year-old campaign.

Balance Play is from the same family as Bauer, who famously missed out on winning the 2008 Melbourne Cup by a nose for trainer Luca Cumani.

Claudia Miller, bloodstock manager for Tulloch Lodge, says she was under ‘strict instructions’ not to leave the sale without the horse and was delighted when the hammer came down.

“He is a lovely three-year-old – lightly raced, very consistent and effective on all going,” Miller said. “He is just the exact profile of the horse we look for at this sale. We are very excited to get him.”

It’s finally here! The Santa Anita Breeders’ Cup is an exciting event horse racing calendar, with events starting today and ending tomorrow (Nov. 4). Set against the stunning backdrop of the San Gabriel Mountains, this event combines the thrills of high-stakes racing with the glamor of a Hollywood soiree. But, like any major event, the key to an unforgettable experience lies in the details.

Whether you’re a seasoned racing enthusiast or a newbie drawn to the excitement, these seven tips will guarantee you have the time of your life at the Santa Anita this weekend.

1. Dress the Part

The Santa Anita Breeders’ Cup isn’t just a horse race; it’s a fashion spectacle. Ladies often don dresses and sophisticated hats or fascinators, while gents fashion themselves in dapper suits and ties. While there’s no strict dress code, remember, it’s better to be overdressed than underdressed. This is your chance to embrace the old-world charm of horse racing, so don’t be shy about going all out.

2. Get Familiar with the Field

Instead of simply putting stakes on a horse, take the time to familiarize yourself with the contenders. Read up on their previous performances, their trainers, and jockeys. There’s a certain thrill in rooting for a horse you have a personal connection with, even if it’s just because you admire its name or back story.

3. Plan Your Arrival

The Santa Anita Park, though vast and accommodating, can get crowded on the day of the Breeders’ Cup. To ensure you get a good parking spot and a comfortable viewing position, aim to arrive early. Also, keep in mind that there might be traffic snarls. Using a ride-sharing service can save you the stress of driving and parking.

4. Indulge in the Culinary Delights

From gourmet dining options to food trucks offering local delights, the Santa Anita Breeders’ Cup offers more than just equine excitement. Before diving into the races, make it a point to explore the culinary spread. Many visitors claim that some of their most memorable moments come from the delightful flavors they’ve savored at the event.

5. Engage in Non-Racing Activities

While the races are the main attraction, the Santa Anita Breeders’ Cup has evolved to be a full-fledged festival. Between races, stroll through the grounds, enjoy live music performances, or even partake in wine and craft beer tastings. Embracing these activities ensures a well-rounded and enjoyable experience, even if your favored horse doesn’t win.

6. Be Smart with Your Wagers

The excitement of the 2023 Breeders Cup betting scene can be electric, and while it’s tempting to dive into the action, remember that the essence of the day should be enjoyment. Set aside a predetermined amount that you’re comfortable parting with. Whether you’re using the classic method of placing a wager or using apps and other digital platforms, always play responsibly. If you’re unfamiliar with the terms, ask around or read up on wagering guides. Remember, it’s not just about the stakes but the thrill of the game.

7. Make Memories

Last but certainly not least, remember to soak in the ambiance and make memories. Whether it’s capturing the race’s high-speed moments with your camera, having a picnic on the lush grounds, or simply reveling in the joy of the event with friends and family, ensure you create moments you’ll cherish for years to come.

In summary, the Santa Anita Breeders’ Cup is more than just a horse race—it’s an experience, a festival, and a display of equine brilliance. As you look forward to the weekend, remember that enjoyment doesn’t solely come from picking the winning horse. It comes from the laughter you share, the food you taste, the music you dance to, and the memories you make. Embrace the entirety of what the Breeders’ Cup offers, and you’re guaranteed a weekend like no other.