The Breeders Cup Classic still seems far with the race scheduled for November 4th. However, everyone is wondering if a 3-year-old can steal the spotlight and become the race favorite. With a massive prize money of $6 million, the Breeders’ Cup Classic is sure to test a host of three-year-olds come race day. As the older horse dirt division experiences a somewhat weaker season, the odds have favored the miler, Cody’s Wish, to lead the charge at the Classic.
However, there are reasonable doubts concerning his ability to handle the challenging 10-furlong distance. With over $2.3 million in career winnings, Cody’s Wish will look to defeat a number of challengers, who are all aiming for the ultimate prize.
3-year-olds steal the equestrian spotlight
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Cody’s Wish is a favorite for the Las Vegas event, scheduled for November. But amidst the uncertainty, hope emerges for the 3-year-olds, with one contender in particular poised to seize the opportunity. With an unblemished record of consistently top performances, Forte has cemented himself as a rising star in the racing world. After his wins in the Fountain of Youth Stakes (G2) and Florida Derby (G1), Forte has solidified his position as one of the best dirt routers of his time. Notably, his defeat of Mage in these races only added to his reputation, as Mage went on to win the prestigious Kentucky Derby. But Forte isn’t the only challenger in this riveting showdown. Arcangelo, the Arrogate ridgling, has also shown incredible promise under the guidance of trainer Jena Antonucci and owner Blue Rose Farm.
As Arcangelo aims to secure victories in the Travers Stakes and Belmont, his untapped potential looms large on the horizon. However, the public’s tendency to favor established equestrian names in horse racing, such as Bill Mott, the trainer of Cody’s Wish, could sway their decisions. According to a Horse Racing Nation report, Mage is another contender in the running. Despite his Derby triumph, recent performances have dimmed the shine around Mage, placing him at 4-1 odds in the Haskell Stakes (G1). For Mage to reclaim his position as the division leader, a decisive victory in the Travers against Forte and Arcangelo is crucial. Come November 4th, all these talented horses will look to challenge Cody’s Wish for top honors. Meanwhile, with Cody’s Wish recently putting in a great performance at the Oklahoma training track, his trainer surprised his fans with an announcement.
Cody’s Wish will participate in Grade 1 Whitney Stakes
Cody’s Wish career has been greatly successful so far. In 13 races during his career, he has clinched the top position a stunning nine times in total. Not to mention his $2.3 million in winnings during that time. Recently he ran four furlongs in an impressive 48.48 seconds at the Oklahoma training track. This led his trainer, Bill Mott, to hint that he can soon be seen at the $1 million Grade 1 Whitney Stakes in August.
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As the excitement for Breeders Cup builds, one thing remains certain: the 3-year-old dirt division is anything but predictable. Cody’s Wish, Forte, Arcangelo, and Mage all have the potential to claim the crown, but only time will reveal who will rise to the challenge.
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