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Pegasus World Cup: A Historical Overview
The Pegasus World Cup has established itself as a cornerstone of the racing world since its inception in 2017. Over the years, it has showcased some of the most celebrated horses, including Arrogate, Gun Runner, and Life Is Good. Each year, the race not only highlights the best in equine athleticism but also underscores the strategic prowess of trainers and jockeys. This edition is no exception, with a lineup that presents unique narratives and challenges.Among the notable contenders, Locked stands out as a horse with a storied past. His two-year-old season was marked by consistency, culminating in a win at the G1 Breeders’ Futurity and a commendable third place at the G1 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile. However, after his victory in the G2 Cigar Mile in December 2024, Locked faced an extended hiatus. Trainers and fans are now watching closely to see if he can maintain his form or if he might experience a post-break slump.
White Abarrio, the 2023 Breeders’ Cup Classic winner, brings a wealth of experience and class to the field. Despite a dip in performance last season, White Abarrio has shown signs of resurgence with a recent run at Gulfstream. Racing aficionados are optimistic that this familiar track could reignite his competitive spirit, making him a strong contender for the win.
Contenders and Their Stories
Beyond the familiar faces, other horses bring intriguing backstories to the table. Saudi Crown, trained by Brad Cox, has demonstrated steady progress but remains unpredictable. His last-place finish in the G1 Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile raised eyebrows, yet his dominant win in the Tenacious Stakes at year-end suggests he is capable of bouncing back strongly.Another noteworthy entrant is Mystik Dan, whose journey from winning the G1 Kentucky Derby by a nose to faltering in the G1 Belmont Stakes has been nothing short of dramatic. After a disappointing performance in the G1 Malibu last month, Mystik Dan returns to a distance more suited to his strengths. This change in trip length could be pivotal in determining his success in the Pegasus World Cup.
Potential Dark Horses
While much attention focuses on the seasoned veterans, the race also offers opportunities for less heralded competitors. Power Squeeze, a four-year-old filly, emerges as a potential dark horse. Her stellar performance in stakes company last season, highlighted by her win in the G1 Alabama, positions her as a formidable force. Following a promising return after a break, where she narrowly missed out to Windy Walk, Power Squeeze is poised to make a significant impact. Back up in trip, she holds the potential to surprise many and secure a leading role at a substantial price.In the ever-evolving world of horse racing, the Pegasus World Cup serves as a testament to the sport’s unpredictability and excitement. As the horses line up on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at 5:40 PM ET, all eyes will be on Gulfstream Park, where history could be made once again. For those unable to attend, NBC will broadcast the event, ensuring that fans worldwide can witness this thrilling competition.