The 2024 Breeders’ Cup Sprint is shaping up to be one of the season’s most exciting races, bringing together the fastest horses in the world to battle it out for glory.
Known for its electrifying pace and heart-pounding finishes, the Sprint is always a fan favorite, drawing the attention of seasoned racing enthusiasts and newcomers alike. This year’s edition promises to be no different, with a highly competitive field of elite sprinters ready to take the track.
As the anticipation builds, it’s time to get familiar with the top five contenders expected to dominate this thrilling event. Each of these horses has shown exceptional form leading up to the race, and any of them could claim victory on the big day. Let’s dive into what makes these sprinters stand out and why they’re the ones to watch in this year’s Breeders’ Cup Sprint.
The Chosen Vron
The Chosen Vron is set to return to the 2024 Breeders’ Cup Sprint (G1) with renewed strategy and experience. Known for his impressive victories, the 6-year-old gelding secured a spot in the prestigious race after capturing the “Win and You’re In” Grade 1 Bing Crosby Stakes at Del Mar, just like he did in 2023.
However, this year, his trainer and co-owner, Eric Kruljac, decided to tweak their approach by entering him in the Pat O’Brien Stakes (G2) as a final tune-up, where he narrowly finished second.
Despite the loss, The Chosen Vron’s track record speaks for itself. With a staggering 19 wins out of 25 career starts and a total earnings of over $1.7 million, this California-bred champion remains a top contender in the upcoming Sprint.
His consistency against state-bred competition and competitiveness at the highest levels make him one to watch closely as race day approaches.
For those looking to stay updated on all things Breeders’ Cup, including the latest odds and insights on contenders like The Chosen Vron, FanDuel.com offers a comprehensive platform for horse racing fans to engage with the sport and place their bets. Keep an eye on this remarkable horse as he takes on the best in the world once again!
Raging Torrent
Raging Torrent boldly defeated The Chosen Vron in the 7-furlong Pat O’Brien Stakes (G2) at Del Mar on August 24, marking his third consecutive win.
Raging Torrent held a narrow lead in a thrilling race before edging out his rival by a neck, securing an automatic entry into the Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile (G1). Trainer Doug O’Neill praised jockey Antonio Fresu’s confident ride.
Raging Torrent’s career began with a win at Del Mar in 2023, followed by successes at Churchill Downs, solidifying his status as a top contender for upcoming races.
Remake (JPN)
Remake, a well-established international sprinter, is poised to make his North American debut in the Grade 1 Breeders’ Cup Sprint at Del Mar in November. The 5-year-old gained recognition after placing fourth in the Dubai Golden Shaheen (G1) in March 2024, following his win in the Sports Boulevard Riyadh Dirt Sprint (G1) in Saudi Arabia.
Remake’s racing résumé includes a victory in the Korea Sprint (G3) and triumphs in Japan, such as the 2022 Capella Stakes (G3).
On September 8, Remake secured his Breeders’ Cup spot by winning the OBS Korea Sprint (G3) in Seoul. His impressive international performances highlight his potential as a strong contender for the upcoming Breeders’ Cup Sprint.
Koji Maeda, a prominent breeder and trainer in Japan, campaigned for the Remake, whose operation, North Hills, has produced past Breeders’ Cup starters, including Chain of Love and Trailblazer. Remake’s sire, Lani, also competed in the 2016 Kentucky Derby.
Gun Pilot
Gun Pilot showed early promise, winning his career debut late in his 2-year-old season. He followed with a runner-up finish and a victory in allowance races to start his 3-year-old campaign.
After several stakes attempts at longer distances, Gun Pilot succeeded in two 6-furlong allowance events. His breakthrough came in the 7-furlong Churchill Downs Stakes (G1) on Kentucky Derby day, fulfilling his potential as trainer Steve Asmussen praised him as a “special horse.”
In one of his final prep races for the Breeders’ Cup Sprint (G1), Gun Pilot finished second to Mullikin in the Forego Stakes (G2) at Saratoga, with Asmussen noting his strong late run and solid performance.
Gun Pilot is a son of Hall of Famer Gun Runner, trained by Asmussen and owned by his breeder, Three Chimneys Farm. He continues to impress and is a strong contender for the upcoming Breeders’ Cup Sprint.
Mullikin
Mullikin, a 4-year-old colt owned by Siena Farm and WinStar Farm, competed and won the $500,000 Forego Stakes (G1) at Saratoga last August 24.
Trained by Rodolphe Brisset, Mullikin enters the race as the 8-5 morning-line favorite following a 1 ½-length victory in the John A. Nerud Stakes (G2) at Aqueduct on July 6, where he earned a career-best Equibase Speed Figure of 110.
The colt has been on a three-race winning streak since April, showing steady progress under Brisset’s careful training plan, which included seven weeks of galloping and preparation. Mullikin’s final workout before the Forego was a sharp half-mile in:47 2/5 at Keeneland, showcasing his readiness. Flavien Prat will ride him from post 6.
Gun Pilot, owned by Three Chimneys Farm, was his strong competitor, having already won the Churchill Downs Stakes (G1) earlier this year and placing third in the True North Stakes (G2).
Conclusion
The 2024 Breeders’ Cup Sprint promises to be an exhilarating event, with top contenders like The Chosen Vron, Raging Torrent, Remake, Gun Pilot, and Mullikin showcasing their impressive records. Each horse brings unique strengths and thrilling potential, making this year’s Sprint a must-watch. Stay tuned for an unforgettable race!
