Uniting the Best in One-Mile Racing
History and Evolution of the Cigar Mile
It all began as the NYRA Mile before being named after its 1994 winner. Over the years, it has seen various changes in its calendar placement, from Thanksgiving weekend to December. This autumn feature has played a significant role in New York's racing legacy, with winners like Forty Niner and Congaree leaving their mark. The race has seen its ups and downs, but it always manages to draw a strong field.Once the Cigar Mile found its current spot on the December calendar, it witnessed some memorable performances. Maximum Security's gate-to-wire victory in 2019 and True Timber's easy win in 2020 are just a couple of examples. Even in the face of challenges like the pandemic, the race has continued to thrive.
The history of the Cigar Mile is a testament to its importance in the racing world. It has seen the best horses go head-to-head, creating some of the most exciting moments in racing history.
The Field and Their Stories
Señor Buscador checks all the boxes, having come out of the Breeders’ Cup Classic and having a Grade 1 win in the Saudi Cup. Mullikin and Post Time also have championship pedigrees from Del Mar. Book’em Danno and Locked have Grade 1 victories, while Post Time, Book’em Danno, Coastal Mission and Law Professor have earned at least $1 million each.Mullikin, the morning-line favorite, will be racing past seven furlongs for the first time. Book’em Danno will be trying it for the second time. Señor Buscador cuts back from the 1 1/4 miles of the Breeders’ Cup Classic to try to improve on his second-place finish last year. Post Time has raced four of his last five going a mile, including a runner-up finish in the Breeders’ Cup. Lightly raced Locked has won as a sprinter, a router and a miler.
Each horse in the field brings a unique story and a chance to shine on Saturday.
The Importance of the Cigar Mile
The Cigar Mile is not just another race; it is a Grade 2 event that holds its own among the best. It brings together sprinters and routers, creating a unique clash of styles.As Richard Migliore said, "I love the top one-mile races. It brings sprinters stretching out. Horses that have been running two turns and routing are turning back. To me it’s where the best of both worlds collide." The Cigar Mile showcases the versatility of the horses and the skill of the trainers.
Even if the weather is not ideal, the Cigar Mile still manages to deliver an exciting day of racing. It is a must-see event for any racing fan.
The Undercard and the Main Event
Before the main event, there will be some exciting undercard fights. The Remsen (G2) for Kentucky Derby prep and the Demoiselle (G2) for 2-year-old fillies are both set to provide some great racing action.Dornoch and Sierra Leone finished one-two a nose apart last year, while Mo Donegal and Zandon did the same three years ago. Muhimma in the Demoiselle (G2) is looking to continue her winning streak.
These undercard races set the stage for the main event, making Saturday a truly memorable day of racing.