Thoroughbred racing witnessed an extraordinary year in 2024, marked by record-breaking performances and unprecedented achievements. From dominant owners to trailblazing jockeys and trainers, this year showcased remarkable milestones that will be etched in the annals of horse racing history. The final statistics released by Equibase, the official database for North American racing, revealed a thrilling narrative of success and competition.

Discover the Legends Behind the Numbers

Godolphin's Unmatched Dominance

In 2024, Godolphin solidified its status as a powerhouse in the world of thoroughbred racing. The prestigious stable campaigned an impressive roster of 22 graded-stakes winners, including two victorious Breeders' Cup champions. For the fourth consecutive year, Godolphin claimed the title of leading owner by earnings, setting a new single-season record with an astounding $20,234,455. This figure surpassed their previous high-water mark set in 2021. When factoring in international races like the Dubai World Cup and Saudi Cup, Godolphin's total earnings soared to an even more impressive $24,414,455.The year also saw Godolphin achieving 104 wins from 460 starts, further cementing its reputation as an unparalleled force in the sport. The stable's success was not just about quantity but quality, as they consistently fielded top-tier horses that excelled on the track. This dominance underscored the strategic acumen and expertise behind Godolphin's operations, making it a benchmark for excellence in the industry.

Flavien Prat's Stellar Year

Jockey Flavien Prat had a career-defining year in 2024, establishing himself as one of the most formidable riders in the sport. He achieved a staggering 230 victories from 1,040 mounts, racking up earnings of $37,274,176. Prat's performance was nothing short of revolutionary, breaking multiple records. He secured 82 stakes wins, surpassing Irad Ortiz Jr.'s previous record of 79 set in 2022. Additionally, his 56 graded stakes wins shattered Jerry Bailey's long-standing record of 55 from 2003.Prat's prowess extended beyond mere numbers; he demonstrated exceptional skill and adaptability across various tracks and conditions. His ability to navigate challenging races and deliver critical victories earned him widespread acclaim. The jockey's success was a testament to his dedication and talent, positioning him as a legend in the making within the racing community.

Chad Brown's Trainer Triumph

Trainer Chad Brown concluded 2024 at the pinnacle of his career, clinching the leading trainer title by earnings for the first time since 2022 and the sixth overall. Under Brown's guidance, his horses won 211 races from 344 starters out of 925 starts, accumulating an impressive $30,866,710. This achievement highlighted Brown's unparalleled ability to prepare and strategize for top-level competitions.Brown's training philosophy emphasized meticulous preparation and a deep understanding of each horse's unique capabilities. His approach resulted in consistent performances from his stable, contributing significantly to his success. The trainer's reputation for excellence attracted top-tier owners and breeders, further enhancing his influence in the racing world. Brown's leadership and innovation set a new standard for what can be achieved in the realm of thoroughbred training.

Top Earning Horses Define the Year

Several horses emerged as standout performers in 2024, driving the narrative of the season. Sierra Leone, the winner of the prestigious Breeders' Cup Classic, led all Thoroughbreds in North American earnings with $5,911,250. This champion also triumphed in the Grade 1 Blue Grass Stakes and the Risen Star Stakes (Gr. 2), showcasing its versatility and resilience.Señor Buscador, another notable performer, ended the year with earnings of $12,021,000, thanks to his victory in the Saudi Cup (G1) and a third-place finish in the Dubai World Cup (G1). Other top earners included Mystik Dan with $4,070,550, Thorpedo Anna with $3,653,050, Fierceness with $2,753,600, Rebel’s Romance with $2,600,000, National Treasure with $2,475,000, Seize the Grey with $2,324,800, Dornoch with $2,169,875, Cogburn with $1,802,000, and Immersive with $1,622,700.These horses not only dominated financially but also left an indelible mark on the racing calendar. Their performances were a reflection of the breeding excellence and training prowess that define the sport. Each horse's journey through the ranks provided captivating stories that resonated with fans and enthusiasts alike.

Emerging Talent and Future Prospects

The year also spotlighted emerging talent, with several horses leading their respective foal crops. Immersive, a 2022 foal by Nyquist, topped the list as the highest earner among its peers. Sierra Leone, a 2021 foal by Gun Runner, and National Treasure, a 2020 foal by Quality Road, also made significant contributions. White Abarrio, a 2019 foal by Race Day, and Essential Quality, a 2018 foal by Tapit, rounded out the top earners from recent foal crops.These young champions not only brought glory to their stables but also offered glimpses into the future of thoroughbred racing. Their success suggested promising trends in breeding and training, fueling optimism for the years ahead. The emergence of these talents underscored the dynamic nature of the sport and its potential for continuous growth and innovation.