Sunday’s $1 million Jockey Club Gold Cup (G1) at Saratoga promises high drama with a “Win and You’re In” berth to the Breeders’ Cup Classic on the line. The 10-furlong test features some of the biggest names in racing — and you can get the official expert picks and betting strategies here!
The Headliners
- Sierra Leone: Last year’s Breeders’ Cup Classic winner and reigning Champion 3-Year-Old Colt. He comes off a sharp Whitney victory, where he powered home with his trademark late kick to earn a 109 Beyer. Trained by Chad Brown and ridden by Flavien Prat, Sierra Leone will be the one to beat if the pace sets up.
- Mindframe: Todd Pletcher’s versatile star already owns a win over Sierra Leone in the Stephen Foster. Fresh and ready after skipping the Whitney, he has the tactical speed to sit closer and strike at the right time.
- White Abarrio: The 2023 Breeders’ Cup Classic hero returns in search of another big stage moment. Back in the Saffie Joseph Jr. barn, he’s been training forwardly and has the class to rebound.
- Highland Falls: Defending Jockey Club Gold Cup winner who nearly upset Sierra Leone in the Whitney. Brad Cox says he’s even better this year, and his tactical speed makes him a live threat once again.
Others in the Mix
- Contrary Thinking: Likely pacesetter and stablemate (rabbit) to Sierra Leone.
- Antiquarian: Improving Pletcher runner who nearly won the Suburban.
- Phileas Fogg: Suburban winner who could prove dangerous if left alone on the front end.
- Disarm & Banishing: Both bring solid graded stakes credentials and could spice up exotics.
Why This Race Matters
Not only does the Gold Cup crown one of the East Coast’s best older horses, but it also serves as the final steppingstone toward the $7 million Breeders’ Cup Classic. With proven champions and rising stars colliding, this year’s renewal is one of the most competitive in recent memory.
Get the Expert Picks at Racing Dudes
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Bottom Line: Sierra Leone may be the favorite, but with Mindframe, White Abarrio, and Highland Falls in the mix, the 2025 Jockey Club Gold Cup is anyone’s race. Before you place your bets, head to RacingDudes.com for the expert selections trusted by horseplayers everywhere.
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