The Breeders’ Cup at Del Mar on November 5 and 6 could quite likely be the Webster entry for this blessed event. Let us expound upon the definition of these World Thoroughbred Championships…
It all starts with the venue. The Del Mar Thoroughbred Club is just dreamy. Spectacular in every aspect, the Seaside Oval was a fabulous site to conduct the 38th running of the Breeders’ Cup. Fair and safe racing surfaces are surrounded by immaculate fan facilities. Founder Bing Crosby would be very proud of today’s Del Mar.
Competition is another of the fantastic features of this ‘Ship. The 2021 Cup ranneth over with top to bottom talent in virtually all of the races. Heavy favorites like Gamine, Jackie’s Warrior, and Letruska all fell victim to a bite from the upset bug due in large part to the deep talent pool.
Excitement abounded as upsets, deep closing winners, and gate to wire epics were all present. Photo finishes were also front and center as both the Sprint and the Distaff were settled right at the wire by a flaring nostril.
The term “World” Championship also rang true as two horses based in Japan won (Filly and Mare Turf, Distaff) and three European runners were victorious (Juvenile Turf, Mile, Turf). That means just over a third of the hardware from these 14 championship races goes somewhere else in the world.
Of course one of the fun things about this sport is the speculation. Over $182 million was wagered on the event. There were plenty of nice payouts as well. The Saturday pick 6 paid $513,085.10, the 50 cent late pick 4 was $4,403.95, and the 50 cent late pick 3 was $917.50. The average win bet return on a $2 investment for the 14 races was $18.25.
Finally, the grand finale was as advertised as Knicks Go put on a show in the last race of the event with a stunning gate to wire win. Although there were many strong performances, the Brad Cox trainee looked like the best in the World.
So, if you happen to google “Breeders’ Cup”, the Webster entry might just say “see Del Mar 2021”.
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