Kingsbarns shone brightly at Churchill Downs during the $1 million Grade 1 Stephen Foster race. With jockey Luis Saez guiding him, he took the lead at the quarter-pole. Kingsbarns then extended his advantage, ultimately winning by 2-1/2 lengths.
This victory not only earned him a triumph in a prestigious race but also guaranteed him a spot in the Breeders’ Cup Classic. For Kingsbarns, this race marked his second attempt at Churchill Downs, and he confidently secured a memorable win.
Kingsbarns Shines under Todd Pletcher’s Training
Kingsbarns certainly impressed under the expert training of Todd Pletcher. He completed the 1-1/8 miles on a fast dirt track in an impressive 1:48.09. This remarkable performance not only marked an important victory for him but also rewarded bettors with $21.90 for a $2 win wager.
Despite finishing 14th in his only previous start at Churchill Downs during the 2023 Kentucky Derby, Kingsbarns has consistently placed no worse than second in his other nine races.
Ned Toffey, the general manager of Spendthrift Farm, expressed his satisfaction with the horse’s performance, highlighting that Kingsbarns finally showcased his true potential.
For those following the Breeders’ Cup, his guaranteed spot means you can start considering your FanDuel.com betting options early.
Kingsbarns Prevails as First Mission and Skippylongstocking Battle Early
On Saturday, Kingsbarns faced tough competition from the start. The favorite, First Mission and Skippylongstocking, were battling hard at the front. First Mission set the pace with quick fractions of 24.13 seconds for the quarter-mile, 48.38 seconds for the half-mile, and 1:11.86 for three-quarters of a mile. However, Kingsbarns made a strategic move on the second turn, with jockey Luis Saez urging him forward. They surged ahead and never lost the lead. Pyrenees came from behind to finish second, while Skippylongstocking and First Mission rounded out the top four.
This win not only earned Kingsbarns a prestigious victory but also secured him a spot in the $7 million Breeders’ Cup Classic on Nov. 2 at Del Mar. Kingsbarns now has a record of six wins, two second-place finishes, and zero third-place finishes in nine career starts. This performance was especially sweet, given his second-place finish to the Pyrenees in the Grade 3 Pimlico Special on May 17. The 4-year-old son of Uncle Mo seems to be peaking at the right time for Spendthrift Farm.
The Takeaway
Kingsbarns’ stellar performance in the Grade 1 Stephen Foster race has secured him a coveted spot in the Breeders’ Cup Classic. With jockey Luis Saez’s expert guidance and Todd Pletcher’s exceptional training, Kingsbarns showcased his true potential, winning by 2-1/2 lengths.
This victory is a testament to his skill and determination, highlighting his ability to overcome challenges and deliver under pressure. His impressive record and consistent performance make him a strong contender for future races.
Fans and bettors should keep an eye on Kingsbarns as he heads to Del Mar for the Breeders’ Cup Classic. With his recent win, Kingsbarns has proven he is a force to be reckoned with in the racing world.
