The winner of the May 1 Gran Premio Criadores (G1) will receive the first automatic starting position into this year’s $2 million Longines Breeders’ Cup Distaff (G1) through the Breeders’ Cup Challenge Series.

The winning combination of trainer Brad Cox and jockey Florent Geroux struck again April 29 at Churchill Downs for Juddmonte when Set Piece went surging late to the wire to win the $130,000 Opening Verse Overnight Stakes. 

Aidan O’Brien admitted that after just one run at 2—an impressive maiden win at the Curragh—One Thousand Guineas (G1) favorite Santa Barbara was going to have to learn on the job on race day.

Machmer Hall, which bred the undefeated daughter of Flatter, has a long history with Search Results’ family.

Spendthrift Farm has secured the breeding rights to undefeated Santa Anita Derby (G1) winner and Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve (G1) contender Rock Your World, it was announced April 29.

The Victorian farm, owned by Adam Sangster, confirmed Toronado would stand for an increased fee of A$49,500 (US$38,462) in 2021 while also revealing the stallion would have his book capped after covering a career peak of 210 mares last year.

Barbara Banke’s operation has sent a lot of top fillies in pursuit of the Kentucky Oaks (G1), but has yet to reach the winner’s circle at Churchill Downs. This year’s class is clearly its deepest yet.

Hall of Fame trainer Steve Asmussen breaks his single-season Oaklawn record for purse earnings when Sianara and Miner’s Queen ran 1-2, respectively, in the seventh race April 28.

Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve (G1) hopefuls Rock Your World, Super Stock, and Midnight Bourbon school in the paddock April 29 at Churchill Downs.

The online auction offers unique, Kentucky-themed items and experiences, including memorabilia associated with many 2021 Kentucky Derby starters.