Here is our expert runner-by-runner preview of the 2021 Breeders’ Cup Classic. Sportsandracing.news provides free picks and tips worldwide.
1 – TRIPOLI
Trainer: John Sadler Rider: Irad Oritz Jr.
Surprise winner in the TVG Pacific Classic at Del Mar on penultimate run which earned him this free entry. Credit for winning at G1 level but the field was pretty ordinary and this is a massive task. Also pleasing is the booking of Irad Oritz Jr. but he isn’t a miracle worker and this is what it will take for this outsider to score.
2 – EXPRESS TRAIN
Trainer: John Shirreffs Rider: Victor Espinoza
Has been well-held in all attempts at this level to date and is yet to win over this trip. Unlikely to have much of a say here. Look elsewhere.
3 – HOT ROD CHARLIE
Trainer: Doug O’Neill Rider: Flavien Prat
Shedding blinkers paid off when first past the post in the TVG Hassel Stakes but interference meant he was disqualified. Interestingly the blinkers come back on here. He is a versatile colt and one of the most appealing contenders who should find the top 3 with an honest effort.
4 – ESSENTIAL QUALITY
Trainer: Brad Cox Rider: Luis Saez
Highly respected Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Champion at age two, has won 8 of 9 since. Trip versatile and likely to have a boost of speed to deploy at the opportune moment. Very strong runner along with his stablemate.
5 – KNICKS GO
Trainer: Brad Cox Rider: Joel Rosario
Has won 3 Graded Stakes in a row, a likely frontrunner with everything looking good. Likely to be backed into oblivion but with good reason. Slight concern going up in trip but no reason he won’t handle it. Great bet but don’t expect a great price.
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6 – ART COLLECTOR
Trainer: William Mott Rider: Mike Smith
Has won all 3 starting since joining William Mott, including the Woodward at this level back in October. Mike Smith taking the ride is very pleasing and this horse can continue his renaissance here. Another who will fight it out for an early lead, he is unproven over the trip but still rates a serious player.
7 – STILLETO BOY
Trainer: Ed Moger Jr. Rider: Kent Desormeaux
Outsider of the field who upset the apple cart at 16/1 in Iowa Derby back in July. Kent Desormeaux is a top class rider but this still seems like he is way outclassed.
8 – MEDINA SPIRIT
Trainer: Bob Baffert Rider: John Velazquez
Bob Baffert has won 4 of the last 7 of this race and has a strong hand in Kentucky Derby winner (for now) Medina Spirit, lining up for a nice hat trick. A useful front runner who has strong early speed the only foil might be the draw and the existence of equally strong rivals with similar dispositions. Big chance if things go his way for a typical all or nothing approach.
9 – MAX PLAYER
Trainer: Steven Asmussen Rider: Ricardo Santana Jr.
Two time trip winner lining up for a distance hat trick. Has shown impressive turn of foot in those runs and could do some strong late work to claim a few scalps. Notable as only horse in 2020 to compete in all 3 legs of Triple Crown. Best value bet of the field, especially each-way.
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This is the full field of the 2021 Breeders’ Cup Classic at Del Mar. Good luck with your bets! Sportsandracing.news provides free racing picks worldwide.
