Del Mar: Pacific Classic Contenders Gear Up for Saturday's Race
The prestigious Grade 1 Pacific Classic, featuring a $1 million purse, is set to electrify Del Mar this Saturday, with eleven top contenders making their final preparations. Following intensive weekend workouts, these equine athletes are now engaging in lighter training, including galloping and schooling, to ensure they are in optimal condition for the big race. The anticipation builds as trainers and jockeys fine-tune strategies for this significant event in the racing calendar.
Among the hopefuls, Hall of Fame trainer Richard Mandella's charge, Subsanador, underwent a unique "cheering up" blowout workout mid-week. This Argentine-bred contender clocked a swift three furlongs in 36.40 seconds, indicating exceptional fitness and readiness. Mandella expressed confidence, stating that Subsanador couldn't be in better form for the competition. Meanwhile, the race favorite, Knightsbridge, trained by Bill Mott, has settled in well since arriving at Del Mar, drawing the outermost post position.
Trainer Saffie Joseph Jr. has two strong entries, Forged Steel and Navajo Warrior, both of whom made smooth transitions to Del Mar, having previously demonstrated their capabilities on the West Coast. Forged Steel notably dominated the Hollywood Gold Cup (G2) in May, while Navajo Warrior, after a successful stint in Southern California, returns following a period on the East Coast. Another contender, Malarchuk, also made his California debut in the Gold Cup, finishing second, and his trainer, Michael McCarthy, noted the advantage of the horse running from his home stall.
Full Serrano, another Argentine-bred, is well-acquainted with Del Mar, having made his U.S. debut and secured a Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile victory at the same venue in 2024. Trainer John Sadler confirmed the horse's excellent form after a strong workout, with plans for additional schooling and gate practice. Additionally, Om N Joy, a Cal-bred filly, is preparing to challenge the male contenders for the first time, with trainer Aggie Ordóñez expressing great excitement for the opportunity.
The international contingent includes Finger, a Japanese horse hoping to make history as the first from his country to win the Pacific Classic. After a comfortable journey and quarantine, Finger has been acclimatizing to Del Mar's track, with plans for paddock schooling and gate work. Trainer liaison Mitsuoki Numamoto highlighted the horse's smooth travel and adjustment, emphasizing his preparedness for the demanding race. All eleven horses are now poised for the 10th race on Saturday's 11-race card, with a probable post time of 9:45 p.m.
With final preparations underway, the field of eleven horses is eager to compete for the substantial prize in the 36th running of the Pacific Classic. Each horse brings a unique blend of past performance and current readiness, promising an exciting and competitive race. The diverse backgrounds and training regimens of the contenders underscore the global appeal and high stakes of this prestigious Del Mar event, setting the stage for a memorable Saturday showdown.