Pippin Stakes

BloodHorse has reprised its online year-end survey to ask some of the sport’s leading individuals for their opinions on pertinent issues facing the sport.

The Hopeful Stakes (G1T) has been a reliable springboard to glory for Japan’s 2-year-olds and usually has a favorite or two set to move ahead, but not this year.

J. Keeler Johnson handicaps the La Brea Stakes (G1) and Malibu Stakes (G1) on opening day at Santa Anita.

As Japan’s racing establishment ups the image of dirt racing, 3-year-olds Natural Rise and Narukami renew a rivalry in the Tokyo Daishoten (G1) Dec. 29 at Oi Racecourse.

In romping in three of five starts, Knightsbridge has hinted at the promise of becoming a future stakes winner. The future could be now Dec. 27 at Gulfstream Park in the $150,000 Mr. Prospector Stakes (G3).

The Hopeful Stakes (G1T) has been a reliable springboard to glory for Japan’s 2-year-olds and usually has a favorite or two set to move ahead, but not this year.

Regaleira, the only filly in the field, seeks an unprecedented repeat win in the Arima Kinen (G1) Dec. 28 at Nakayama Racecourse.

The National Turf Writers and Broadcasters, with matching financial support from The Jockey Club, has agreed to support a record nine internship applications at horse racing media outlets in 2026, by far the largest group funded in program history.

Motorious, winner of the 2024 Joe Hernandez Stakes, will try to add a second victory in the race Dec. 29 at Santa Anita Park.