Legendary trainer Todd Pletcher has established an unparalleled legacy at Gulfstream Park, leading the championship meet standings for 18 consecutive years from 2004 to 2021. His success extends to major events like the Florida Derby and the Pegasus World Cup Invitational. This year, Pletcher enters several top contenders in various races on Pegasus Day, including the $3 million Pegasus World Cup and the $1 million Pegasus World Cup Turf Invitational. With a mix of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, Pletcher aims to maintain his dominance and add more prestigious titles to his impressive record.

Pletcher's Strategy for Key Races

Pletcher’s approach to the Pegasus World Cup involves a combination of proven performers and emerging talents. Crupi, who finished third last year, is expected to benefit from a strong pace, while Locked, fresh off a victory in the Cigar Mile, looks to make a significant impact. Both horses represent Pletcher's versatility in selecting runners for high-stakes competitions. Major Dude and Grand Sonata, competing in the Pegasus World Cup Turf, showcase consistency and potential for Grade 1 glory. Pletcher’s strategic adjustments, such as removing blinkers from Grand Sonata, highlight his attention to detail and adaptability.

Crupi’s performance in the Pegasus World Cup last year was commendable, finishing just shy of the podium despite rallying from last place. Pletcher believes that with a solid pace setting, Crupi can improve on this result. Meanwhile, Locked’s resurgence after a setback during his three-year-old campaign culminated in a dominant win at the Cigar Mile. Pletcher expresses confidence in Locked’s ability to compete against older horses and anticipates even better performances over longer distances. Major Dude and Grand Sonata bring their own strengths to the Pegasus Turf, with Major Dude’s consistent late runs and Grand Sonata’s potential for a breakthrough performance after adjustments to his racing gear.

International Talent Adds Depth to Pegasus Day Lineup

The inclusion of international talent adds an exciting dimension to Pegasus Day. Irish-bred Raqiya and South Africa-bred Bless My Stars bring unique perspectives and experiences to the races. Raqiya’s impressive victory at Del Mar showcased her front-running capabilities, while Bless My Stars demonstrated resilience in her U.S. debut. Both mares have been training well and are poised to contribute significantly to the day’s festivities. Pletcher’s decision to engage internationally acclaimed jockey Frankie Dettori for Raqiya underscores the importance of these entries.

Raqiya’s arrival from Ireland has been seamless, impressing trainers with her adaptability and performance. Her front-running style could be advantageous given the speed dynamics of the race. Pletcher trusts Dettori’s judgment to navigate the optimal strategy. Bless My Stars, despite a challenging draw in her first U.S. race, showed remarkable closing speed. Trainer Irad Ortiz Jr., who rode her in the Suwannee River, remains confident in her potential. Pletcher expects both mares to build on their initial impressions and deliver competitive performances. Additionally, Pletcher has entered several other horses across various stakes races, ensuring a comprehensive representation of his stable’s strength on this marquee day of racing.