We’re around two weeks away from The Pegasus World Cup 2024! The race is set to take place on Sunday, January 27th, at Gulfstream Park in South Florida, with total purse prizes of a whopping $14.875 million.
As we gear up for the event, let’s look at some of the headliners who’ll be vying for the top spot and aiming to make a name for themselves in the history of the Pegasus World Cup. Check them out there:
Master of Seas
The Irish-bred Master of the Seas is one of the 2024 Pegasus World Cup contenders. It has won eight out of 16 races, earning over $2.2 million. It made an impressive comeback in the 2023 Breeders’ Cup Mile by winning from a trailing position on the grass at Santa Anita.
This horse is known for its speed, stamina, and smart racing skills, making it a strong competitor on turf. Its ability to handle tough courses and win important races highlights its status as a top-tier racehorse.
Warm Heart
Adding to the list of European invitees alongside Master of Seas is the 4-year-old Irish-bred filly Warm Heart. This talented horse made a journey to North America for her sole appearance in the Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Turf (G1) on November 4, narrowly securing second place by a neck behind the favored Inspiral.
Before her notable performance in the United States, Warm Heart claimed victories in prestigious races such as the Qatar Prix Vermeille (G1) at Longchamp and the Yorkshire Oaks (G1). Her international racing achievements also include a commendable third-place finish in the Hong Kong Vase (G1) just last month.
Atone
The next major headliner expected in the Pegasus Turf 2024 is the current champion, Atone. This experienced 7-year-old gelding has an impressive record, with seven wins and $1.3 million in earnings from a total of 29 career starts.
Atone’s success goes beyond the Pegasus Turf, with notable performances in four other graded stakes races. Noteworthy among these are his second-place finishes in the 2021 Fort Lauderdale (G2) at Gulfstream and the 2022 Forbidden Apple (G3) and Mint Million (G3).
However, it’s important to highlight that Atone has not secured a victory in any of his six starts since winning in the previous race edition. Despite holding the reigning title, Atone faces the challenge of ending this winless streak, introducing an element of curiosity and uncertainty to his quest for success in the upcoming Pegasus Turf event.
Therapist
Therapist, a stablemate of Atone, is also among the invited horses for the 2024 Pegasus World Cup. This 9-year-old gelding is currently being trained by Mike Maker, who previously achieved success in the Pegasus Turf with Zulu Alpha in 2020.
Owned by Michael Dubb, Therapist boasts an impressive track record with 14 victories, accumulating over $1.3 million in purse earnings. This seasoned horse has triumphed in nine stakes races and attained Grade 1 status, notably winning the United Nations on July 22.
Adding to his credentials, Therapist showcased his skills by securing the 2018 Cutler Bay at Gulfstream, further establishing himself as a strong contender in high-profile turf competitions.
Saudi Crown
Saudi Crown, the progeny of Always Dreaming, earned its Grade 1 recognition through an impressive triumph in the $1-million Pennsylvania Derby (G1) at Parx. Despite contending with a strong field, the horse showcased both speed and stamina, securing a Grade 1 title.
In the early stages of Saudi Crown’s racing journey, it achieved consecutive victories, establishing itself as a rising star. After its initial success, the 4-year-old runner delivered solid performances, securing second place in both the Dwyer (G3) at Belmont and the Jim Dandy (G2) at Saratoga.
However, a challenging moment occurred in the Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1) at Santa Anita, where the horse finished off the board, marking its only performance below the second-place position. Nonetheless, this setback highlights the competitive nature of top-tier horse racing.
Adhamo
Adhamo, owned by Louis Lazzinnaro, Michael Caruso, Madaket Stables, and Michael Dubb, is trained by the highly regarded Chad Brown. Notably, Brown achieved success in the inaugural Pegasus Turf in 2019 with the eventual Horse of the Year, Bricks and Mortar.
This 6-year-old Irish-bred horse holds the title of a Group 3 winner in France. Beyond Europe, Adhamo has taken part in nine races in North America, with the last eight being Grade 1 events. One of his noteworthy achievements includes a victory in the 2022 United Nations. Moreover, he has secured wins in the Hollywood Derby (G1) and the Saratoga Derby Invitational (G1) in 2023.
Final Thoughts
All these horses possess top-tier talent, boasting impressive track records and achievements that position them as strong contenders for the Pegasus World Cup 2024. However, this list isn’t complete and is subject to changes. Stay tuned for the latest updates on the 2024 Pegasus World Cup.
