Discovering the True Eclipse Contenders in 2024 Racing

Older Dirt Males

National Treasure emerges as the clear front-runner in this division. With two major Grade 1 wins and a near-miss in another, his resume surpasses all other eligible horses. His record is a testament to his dominance, making him a worthy candidate for the Eclipse Award.

Subsanador showed great promise earlier in the season but faced setbacks due to injury. His Grade 1 California Crown win demonstrated his potential, and if he can return to form in 2025, he will be a force to be reckoned with.

Older Dirt Females

Idiomatic had a solid season, with back-to-back wins in the Spinster (G1). Although her two losses this year were more notable than her wins, her overall performance was impressive. She will earn my Eclipse vote in this division.

Adare Manor's last start in the Clement L. Hirsch (G1) was a standout. Her heart and determination shone through as she overcame adversity to win decisively. Her two Grade 1 victories this season make her a strong contender.

3-Year-Old Males

Sierra Leone's consistency throughout the season was remarkable. His decisive win in the Breeders' Cup Classic against tough competition solidified his position as a top contender. He has the potential to snag the Eclipse in this division.

Fierceness' performance in the Breeders' Cup Classic was stellar. Running close to the quick early pace and finishing a strong runner-up, he has made a strong case for himself. The debate between these top two is far from over.

3-Year-Old Fillies

Thorpedo Anna's win in the Breeders' Cup Distaff was expected, given the weak field. However, her overall season was impressive, and she has proven herself to be a force in her division.

Candied's consistent performances in graded stakes races have been notable. Her runner-up finishes in key races and her ability to compete at the highest level make her a serious contender.

Turf Males

Johannes ran great in the Breeders' Cup Mile, finishing ahead of everyone except More Than Looks. His four graded-stakes wins this season make him a strong candidate for the Eclipse in this division.

Carl Spackler's second straight Grade 1 win in the Turf Mile at Keeneland showcases his talent. Although he didn't perform as well in the Breeders' Cup Mile, his resume still holds weight.

Turf Females

Moira's win in the Breeders' Cup Filly & Mare Turf was a fan-favorite. While she may not have dominated all year, her Grade 1 win gives her a legitimate claim to the Eclipse.

Didia's strong performance in the Breeders' Cup Mile, finishing a close third, shows her ability to compete at the highest level. Her previous wins and consistent form make her a top contender.

Male Sprinters

The Chosen Vron remains at the top despite his upset loss in the Pat O'Brien (G2). His remarkable record of 19 wins from 25 starts and 18 stakes wins is a testament to his skill.

Straight No Chaser's big win in the Breeders' Cup Sprint was impressive. Although he doesn't vault to the top of the rankings, his performance shows his potential.

Female Sprinters

Soul of an Angel's closing speed in the Breeders' Cup Filly & Mare Sprint was remarkable. Her versatility in different distances makes her a standout in her division.

Society's runner-up finish in the Breeders' Cup Filly & Mare Sprint was a close one. Her previous wins and consistent form make her a strong contender.

2-Year-Old Males

Citizen Bull's gate-to-wire win in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile was impressive. His consecutive Grade 1 wins at the front end of the season solidify his position as the Eclipse winner.

Gaming's clear runner-up finish in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile shows his talent. His Del Mar Futurity (G1) win this season adds to his credentials.

2-Year-Old Fillies

Immersive's 4-for-4 record and three Grade 1 wins make her a standout among 2-year-old fillies. Her performance at the Breeders' Cup was remarkable.

Vodka With a Twist's consistent performances as a runner-up in key races show her potential. She is knocking on the door for her first win.

For some, the idea of National Treasure winning the Eclipse might seem controversial. But when we look at his record and compare it to past winners, it becomes clear that he deserves serious consideration. His multiple Grade 1 wins and consistent performances make him a worthy candidate.

Subsanador may have edged out National Treasure in one race, but his overall season was inconsistent. National Treasure's dominance throughout the year cannot be ignored.

Newgate had a solid season, with notable performances in key races. Although he may not have the same resume as National Treasure, he still deserves a spot on the Eclipse ballot.

Arthur's Ride's three Grade 1 starts tell a different story. His lone win was an aberration, and his other performances were lackluster. He doesn't have the credentials to compete with National Treasure.

Highland Falls had his moments but missed the chance at the Eclipse in the Breeders' Cup Classic. His overall performance was not enough to overtake National Treasure.

Señor Buscador had a brief stint at the top but couldn't manage a win on U.S. soil in 2024. His inconsistent performances make him an unlikely candidate for the Eclipse.

Post Time's eight races and two graded-stakes wins are not enough to earn him a spot on the Eclipse ballot. His performances were not at the same level as National Treasure.

Full Serrano's first stakes win in 2024 doesn't give him the credentials to be considered for the Eclipse. He needs to prove himself in more significant races.

Next's performance in the Breeders' Cup Classic was a disaster. His lack of experience and inability to handle the competition make him an unlikely Eclipse contender.

Hit Show's recent string of graded-stakes wins has been impressive. If he can continue this form and win the Clark (G2) at Churchill, he will earn a serious look on the Eclipse ballot.

Looking at past Eclipse winners like Lawyer Ron in 2007 and Left Bank in 2002, we see that National Treasure's resume is not as unique as it may seem. These past winners had similar seasons with a mix of wins and setbacks.

Despite the criticism he has faced, National Treasure's career has been solid. His wins in key races and his ability to compete at the highest level make him a worthy contender for the Eclipse.