The Breeders Cup is one of the US’s most prestigious horse racing events. There are only a few weeks left before the waiting ends, and as usual, many fun things will happen at this yearly event. Compared to the NFL, the Triple Crown is the regular season, and the Breeders Cup is the Super Bowl, so you can be sure that there will be a lot attending these championship races.
This includes celebrities, politicians, and, of course, big names in the horse racing industry. That said, if it’s your first time attending the Breeders Cup, there are many things you should know, and luckily for you, we are here to help. Here are some things you need to know for your first Breeders Cup experience.
1. Prepare to Meet the Best
Table of Contents
If you’re hesitating whether to come or not, you might want to consider the former. The Breeders Cup is considered the world horse racing championship, so you can assume that only the best horses can compete. If you’re a bettor, you might see some huge names that will make the breeders Cup 2023 odds more interesting.
However, you can also assume that the qualifying process is very strict. There are three possible ways for horses to participate in the event. This includes three races: the Breeders Cup Challenge Series, the Graded Stakes, and the Panel of Experts.
The Breeders Cup Challenge series is a series of races that is held throughout the year. Any trainer, owner, and horse can enter; however, the official rule is that you’re only in if you win a race. As simple as it is to join the series, winning it is a different matter, and you can expect big names to join these races.
The second is the Graded Stakes Points System. Certain races are held throughout the year, and points are given to the top three finishers. The horses with the most points have a shot in the Breeders Cup at the end of the year and, lastly, the Panel of Experts. This panel of experts has their picks for the races, usually from scenarios where the points can’t decide.
2. The Weekend Schedule
The Breeders Cup World Championship is two full days of nonstop horse racing. These races have some of the richest purses divided into 13 title races, usually accumulating to $25 million on average. The races usually start on a Friday afternoon and will continue throughout Saturday.
If you plan to attend the event starting on Friday, you might want to decide on your accommodations beforehand because the weather in Arcadia can be quite unpredictable. However, if you can’t go, there’s still the simulcast TV coverage you can opt for if you’re stuck in your hotel room or house.
3. Where Will It Be Held?
This year’s Breeders Cup World Championship will be held at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, California. The Breeders Cup is usually on the road, so the location changes yearly. Last year, it was held in Lexington, Kentucky.
In the previous ones, the event was held at Arlington Park, Lone Star Park, Gulfstream Park, etc. However, did you know that the Breeders Cup World Championship is held at Santa Anita Park ten times and will be its eleventh this year? That said, you can say that Santa Anita Park holds significant historical value in the history of the Breeders Cup.
4. A Tradition of Traditions
The Breeders Cup has multiple traditions that shouldn’t be broken. One good example is that the winning horse should wear the usual gold and purple flower garland composed of Beauty Asters, Cremons, Golden Asters, and Cattleya Orchids, which are grown exclusively for the Breeders Cup World Championships.
Another tradition is the kind of trophies given to each race’s winners. The trophies are a bronze reproduction of the original Torrie horse created in Florence in the 1580’s. Giovanni Da Bologna created the trophy. Additionally, a larger version of the trophy is usually transferred to the host location to help the fans celebrate.
5. It’s a Social Event
Because of the proximity of Santa Anita Park to Hollywood, you can bet that you’ll also see many celebrities at the event wearing glamorous outfits. And, of course, you should also do the same. You know what they say, dress to impress, and you should certainly do that at this event. With many A-listers like musicians, celebrities, professional athletes, and even politicians, you don’t want to be caught up wearing your casual park clothes.
For the ladies, wearing a comfy but elegant dress paired with a gorgeous hat or hairstyle is recommended. However, we suggest wearing pumps since you’ll be walking a lot. Also, since you’re moving a lot, a purse would be too much of a hassle. Consider bringing a shoulder bag or a cross-body clutch to keep your hands free.
Not only that but god forbid you don’t forget your glasses because it would most likely be sunny. And for the gents, you can pull out your suits for casual events. A high-fashion suit paired with khakis will do just fine. Pair it with a bowtie or necktie, and you’ll fit right in.
6. Consider Ticket Packages
You might want to consider ticket packages if you want more official access to the races and other commodities. Ticket packages are sold directly from the Breeders Cup. This means that they give you unparalleled access, which is more than what tickets from other sources offer you. Official ticket packages grant exclusive in-track hospitality access on both days, access to open bars, complimentary gourmet fare, entertainment elements, and many more.
And the best part? If your group struggles with getting hotel accommodations near the venue, official ticket packages also have luxurious accommodations for you and your friend group or family. It’s an all-in-one ticket package if you don’t want to hassle yourself by finding hotel accommodations and restaurants.
Final Words
The 2023 Breeders Cup World Championships is a horse racing event that no fan or bettor should miss. It’s also a great event if you’re just starting your journey in horse racing betting. With all that said, see you there.
No Comments