As we get closer to one of the most famous events on the horse racing calendar, excitement and intrigue about the Breeder’s Cup Juvenile 2023 grows. Who has the speed, stamina, and pure equine prowess to win this year? The Breeder’s Cup Juvenile, designed to highlight up-and-coming stars, has historically offered a platform for young Thoroughbreds to display their championship potential.
This article will examine significant candidates and dark horses, breaking down their performances, pedigrees, and prep races. Will it be a favorite who triumphs or an underdog who steals the show? Let’s look at the horses that could have what it takes to be the first to cross the finish line.
Timberlake
During his second race at Ellis Park in July 2023, a horse on the rise named Timberlake won for the first time, outrunning his rivals by a decisive 9.25 lengths. In the following races, Timberlake proved his talent for racing by placing second in the Hopeful Stakes and winning the Champagne Stakes with a decisive margin. These outstanding accomplishments cemented his inclusion in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile.
Brad Cox’s expert teaching heavily influenced Timberlake’s impressive record. However, it’s equally important to recognize his remarkable ancestry. Into Mischief, the sire, and Pin Up, an Irish mare descended from Lookin At Lucky, were responsible for the breeding of Timberlake in Kentucky. With such a solid start in his career, Timberlake has a bright future and is a rising star in the racing industry.
Nutella Fella
Nutella Fella, a 2-year-old Thoroughbred who made an impressive debut at Delaware Park, surprised spectators at the Hopeful Stakes (G1) at Saratoga, taking first place despite having a Juvenile Cup Bets odds of 54-1.
Nutella Fella outperformed rival Timberlake, tapping into a late surge of speed on the quick and fast Saratoga track. Nutella Fella’s earnings have risen to $187,800 after just two races, justifying Anthony Farrior’s $12,000 purchase at Keeneland’s 2022 Yearling Sale.
Prince of Monaco
Prince of Monaco, the excellent 2-year-old horse trained by Bob Baffert, is making a name for himself in the Southern California racing scene. The enormous colt went on to dominate key 2-year-old racing events at Del Mar, winning both the Best Pal Stakes and the Del Mar Futurity after a great start at Los Alamitos in July. His ability to control his energy before controlling the pace demonstrates his clever but strong racing approach.
The Prince of Monaco’s spectacular victories have received notice and a $30,000 credit toward entry costs in the coveted $2 million Breeders’ Cup Juvenile at Santa Anita Park in November.
Prince of Monaco, a dark bay or brown son of Speightstown, was acquired at Fasig-Tipton last year for an outstanding $950,000. Based on his performance thus far, this investment appears to pay off since the Prince of Monaco has already established his value in horse racing.
Noted
Noted, a Kentucky-bred horse by the late Brereton Jones is making strides on the racing circuit, carrying on the legacy of his illustrious breeder. Noted has two victories in four races ridden by Irad Ortiz Jr. and Jario Rendon.
He began his career at Belmont Park, finishing second despite a rough start. He was the favorite at Saratoga and did not disappoint, winning by a half-length over a distance of 1 1/16 miles after beating a formidable challenger.
His most notable victory came in the Sapling Stakes at Monmouth when he defeated competitors like Dornoch to win. Despite intense opposition and challenging racing circumstances, Noted’s excellent momentum and strong performance secured him a one-length win. Noted finished a tight second in the Bourbon Stakes at Keeneland, losing the lead by a nose.
Gold Sweep
Gold Sweep, trained by Hall of Famer Steve Asmussen, has shown to be a strong prospect, displaying early potential in Kentucky before making a significant imprint in New York state. His maiden racing triumph came in the Tremont Stakes, where he outlasted the competition by a 9-length margin.
However, races at Saratoga Race Course were challenging, with Gold Sweep suffering setbacks such as a shaky start and a late steady in a stretch, forcing him to finish sixth in the Hopeful Stakes. McCarthy purchased Gold Sweep for $285,000 from the Indian Creek consignment at Fasig-Tipton’s Saratoga Sale in 2022.
Valiant Force
Valiant Force has established a fearsome presence on the track after dazzling onlookers during the Norfolk Stakes. He demonstrates that North American breeding is still thriving in Europe with an excellent genealogy that includes Malibu Moon, his father, and Vigui’s Heart, his mother.
With award-winning relatives and a tradition of high-grade sire excellent road, racing success runs in his family. Ramon Horta Rangel, his breeder, is an experienced hand at Spendthrift Farm, giving another layer of prominence to his pedigree.
Despite being sold twice in sales, Valiant Force has proven his promise, with continuing success expected in future races. Valiant Force has more to show after finishing fifth in the Prix Morny, but he has already established his winning reputation in the racing world.
To Wrap it Up
Be it a favorite or an underdog horse, the joy of the race lies in the unexpected. Remember to watch the competition since these young Thoroughbreds are only getting started. Regardless of the outcome, each horse’s presence in the Cup demonstrates their potential and the promise they represent for horse racing’s future. So, sit back, enjoy the next racing season, and look forward to crowning a new Breeder’s Cup Juvenile champion in 2023.
