The horse racing calendar concludes the year 2024 with an exciting lineup of events. The highlight is undoubtedly the opening of Santa Anita Park’s winter-spring "Classic" meet on Thursday, December 26th. This prestigious event features six graded stakes races, including the Malibu Stakes and the newly renamed Laffit Pincay Jr. Stakes. Noteworthy participants include Mystik Dan, the winner of the Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve. Additionally, live coverage from Santa Anita will be available on FanDuel TV, along with races from other major tracks like Gulfstream Park and Fair Grounds. Aqueduct will resume its winter meet on Friday, December 27th, with highlights featured on “America’s Day at the Races” broadcasted on FOX Sports channels. Horse racing enthusiasts can also tune into various radio programs throughout the week for in-depth analysis and previews.
A Closer Look at the Winter-Spring Classic Meet
In the crisp and vibrant days of late December, Santa Anita Park prepares to welcome racegoers and enthusiasts for its highly anticipated winter-spring "Classic" meet, commencing on Thursday, December 26th. The opening day presents a thrilling array of six graded stakes races, each offering unique excitement and competition. One of the most anticipated races is the Malibu Stakes, featuring the illustrious Mystik Dan, who triumphed in the Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve earlier this year. Another notable race is the Laffit Pincay Jr. Stakes, which has been renamed to honor the legendary Hall of Fame jockey, Laffit Pincay Jr., who holds the record for the most wins at Santa Anita with an impressive 2,860 victories.
Beyond Santa Anita, fans can look forward to daily live broadcasts of races from renowned tracks such as Gulfstream Park, Fair Grounds, and Turfway Park on FanDuel TV and Racetrack Television Network. Following a brief hiatus, Aqueduct will kick off its winter meet on Friday, December 27th, with action from the Big A and Oaklawn Park showcased on “America’s Day at the Races,” airing on FOX Sports channels over the weekend. Subscribers to Racetrack Television Network (RTN) can enjoy live streaming on all devices, ensuring that no fan misses out on the excitement.
For those preferring radio coverage, several programs offer insightful commentary and previews, including “At The Races with Steve Byk” and “The 1/ST BET Racing Show.” These broadcasts provide valuable insights into the strategies and contenders, enhancing the overall experience for listeners.
From a journalist's perspective, the return of these classic meets and the introduction of new races, such as the Laffit Pincay Jr. Stakes, underscore the enduring appeal of horse racing. The renaming of the San Antonio Stakes to honor Laffit Pincay Jr. not only pays tribute to his remarkable legacy but also adds a layer of historical significance to the event. For fans and participants alike, these meets serve as a celebration of tradition, excellence, and the spirit of competition that defines the sport of horse racing. The comprehensive media coverage ensures that even those unable to attend in person can fully immerse themselves in the thrill of the races.