Del Mar’s $1 Million Pacific Classic Lures Breeders’ Cup Hopefuls

Del Mar is set to host its signature event, the Pacific Classic, a race that has historically served as a critical springboard for horses aiming at the Breeders’ Cup Classic. Scheduled for August 22 as the track’s 10th race, the contest offers a purse of $1 million and a “win and you’re in” berth into the $7 million Breeders’ Cup Classic. The 1 1/4-mile test features an 11-horse field, drawing contenders from across the United States and including Japanese shipper Finger.

The race is a highlight for the Southern California circuit, often featuring stars like Flightline and California Chrome in previous years. Among the entries, Bill Mott trainee Knightsbridge has been established as the morning-line favorite. The field is diverse, ranging from Forged Steel, who won the Hollywood Gold Cup, to the Japanese import Finger attempting to navigate the Del Mar dirt surface for the first time.

The betting handle for major races like the Pacific Classic is a key indicator for operators in the gambling sector. Churchill Downs Incorporated, a prominent player in the industry that operates live racing venues and wagering platforms, is currently trading at $93.12. The stock saw a 1.49% increase from its previous close of $91.75, giving the company a market capitalization of approximately $6.33 billion. The firm operates across three primary segments: Live and Historical Racing, Wagering Services and Solutions, and Gaming.

Post time for the Pacific Classic is expected to be 6:30 p.m. Pacific. The outcome will not only determine the champion of Del Mar’s most lucrative regularly scheduled race but also set the stage for the fall racing season.

What to watch

• Official post time and wagering totals for the Pacific Classic on August 22.
• Quarterly earnings reports from major wagering and racing operators.
• Future guidance regarding Breeders’ Cup handle projections.

Source: original release