In the world of horse racing, the Pegasus World Cup Invitational (G1) stands as a pinnacle event, set to take place on January 25th at Gulfstream Park in Hallandale Beach, Florida. This prestigious race, with a prize pool of $3 million, features horses aged four and above competing over a distance of 1 1/8 miles. Among the contenders is Crupi, a five-year-old chestnut gelding who has shown remarkable improvement since breaking his maiden status last July. After an impressive sophomore season that included victories in two listed stakes at Aqueduct, Crupi aims to surpass his third-place finish from last year's Pegasus World Cup. Despite being listed at odds of 15-1, Crupi's trainer, Todd Pletcher, remains confident in the horse's potential, noting its consistent performance and solid training leading up to the race.
Crupi's Journey to the Pegasus World Cup
In the heart of winter, under the bright Florida sun, the stage is set for the Pegasus World Cup Invitational at Gulfstream Park. The spotlight shines on Crupi, a seasoned competitor now entering his fifth year. His journey began nearly a year ago when he finally broke his maiden status at Monmouth Park after seven previous attempts. Since then, Crupi has blossomed into a formidable force, securing three wins out of four races, including two significant victories in listed stakes at Aqueduct. Last year, Crupi surprised many by finishing third in the Pegasus World Cup despite being the longest shot in the field. This year, without the presence of past winners National Treasure and Senor Buscador, Crupi seeks to claim a higher position. Trainer Todd Pletcher, a member of the Racing Hall of Fame, believes Crupi needs a strategic setup to excel, particularly a strong pace up front. Pletcher has been impressed by Crupi's physical maturity and consistent training, positioning him well for this crucial race.
Crupi will be ridden by Luis Saez, replacing Irad Ortiz Jr., who guided him in most of his previous races. Post-positioned at 5, Crupi's betting odds stand at 15-1. Owned by Repole Stable and St. Elias Stable, Crupi boasts a career record of 5 wins, 4 seconds, and 5 thirds from 19 starts, earning over $1.1 million. With a top Equibase speed figure of 112 and a deep-closing running style, Crupi has undergone rigorous preparation, including three timed works in early 2025, the latest covering 4 furlongs in 49.33 seconds on January 18th.
The legacy of J.C. Crupi, after whom the horse is named, adds another layer of significance to Crupi's story. Co-owner Mike Repole credits the late horseman for selecting future champion Uncle Mo, further emphasizing the historical importance of Crupi's lineage.
From a journalistic perspective, Crupi's story exemplifies the unpredictable yet thrilling nature of horse racing. It highlights the importance of perseverance and strategic planning. For readers, it serves as a reminder that even long shots can achieve remarkable results with dedication and the right conditions. As we watch Crupi prepare for the Pegasus World Cup, we are reminded of the enduring spirit of competition and the unexpected triumphs that make horse racing so captivating.